Caregiver Teleconnection

Explore our remote caregiver support programming
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  • Medications and Older Adults with Daniel Min, PharmD

    Learn more about 1) the differences in how medications affect older adults differently than when they were younger, 2) the Beers list, 3) common drug interactions, 4) importance of using […]

  • Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”

    Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their […]

  • Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”

    Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their […]

  • Dealing with Dementia with Gayle Alston

    Caregivers of people living with dementia need the “ How to’s” of managing the challenges they face each day. The Dealing with Dementia Guide and Workshop was created to provide […]

  • Caregiving and the Holidays with Melissa Griffin

    Explore the unique challenges of caregiving and the holidays. What traditions may need to change? Learn tips to cope with the stress of balancing caregiving and self-care.  

  • Home Safety with Lakelyn Hogan

    If you’re worried about the safety of your aging loved one who is living at home, it could be for good reason. Home safety issues and falls are among the leading causes of injury at home. There are common hazards and warning signs that family members can look out for. The good news is, simple […]

  • Las temporadas de fiestas

    Las temporadas de fiestas presentan muchas oportunidades para estar juntos y compartir risas y recuerdos. Sin embargo, también conllevan estrés, decepción y tristeza. Es posible que una persona que vive con Alzheimer experimente una sensación de pérdida especial durante esta temporada debido a los cambios y, al mismo tiempo, las personas que cuidan de otra […]

  • Music and Memory with Candice Slusher, LVN

    The life of a family caregiver seems almost unbearable, and many times the health of the caregiver suffers greatly, to the detriment of the care recipient. But what if there was a magic trick that could not only ease the burden of the caregiver, but also improve the quality of life for the person with […]

  • Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”

    Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their caregiving journey.

  • Los Angeles

  • Halifax time

    This event is from 8:00am to 5:00pm on December 30, 2018.

  • La fatiga de las personas que cuidan de otras y la importancia de cuidarse a sí mismo

    El Dr. Néstor H. Praderio hablará sobre la fatiga de las personas que cuidan de otras y la importancia de cuidarse a sí mismo. El doctor también dedicará especial atención a desarrollar habilidades de sobrellevar básicas que le ayuden a aliviar el estrés y mantener una relación positiva con su ser querido. Nestor H. Praderio, […]

  • Developing An Attitude of Gratitude – A Self-Awareness Session

    Did you know that your mindset and attitude have a direct impact on your health and well being? Researchers have found that practicing gratitude can have a positive effect on your brain and overall health, important for family caregivers and others. In this session, you will learn how to start on your path to thankfulness.

  • The Pride of Caring: Issues for LGBT Caregivers with Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW

    Nationally, greater attention is being paid to the concerns facing caregivers. While many issues are the same for all adults and those who care for someone, some unique considerations arise for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people dealing with their caregiving roles. This session will discuss some of these issues, and will provide an […]

  • Share the Care™

    Aging. Illness. Disability. Everyone, at some point in life, will be touched by the need to be a family caregiver. Shelia Warnock, Founder and President of Share the Care ™ will talk about an unique approach to caregiving to ease the burden on one person by forming groups of caregivers and coordinating delivery of services.

  • Financial Planning for Older Adults

    Learn about essential financial decisions older adults must make. What do they need to know to lower risk but have money to help them stay independent. How can family caregivers help loved ones make informed decisions?

  • Caregiver Burnout

    A caregiver’s self-care is just as important as the care provided to another. When we don’t take care of ourselves, we diminish our quality of life. Burnout, depression, and compassion fatigue are the result of ignoring our own needs and wants. In this session, Dr. Jamie will identify the red flags and feelings to watch […]

  • The A’s of Dementia

    This presentation takes a detailed look at the A’s of Dementia -- from anxiety, anger, aggression, apathy to amnesia, aphasia, agnosia and apraxia – in a manner that allows caregivers […]

  • What Services are Available for Caregivers?

    Join us for an interactive session to learn ways to identify local, state, and national resources for caregivers. Also learn how to think and act creatively to find support groups and other sources of emotional support.

  • Dear Lucy with Lucy Barylak, MSW

    This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their caregiving journey.

  • How to Motivate Without Bullying During Caregiving

    During the family caregiving years, there can sometimes be a blurry line between being a supportive guide for our loved ones and an arm-twisting bully who insists on cooperation with getting tasks done. We should rarely put tasks over our relationships. But in the on-rush of care demands, creeping bullying can still occur. In this […]

  • Grief and Loss

    There are days filled with love and happiness but it is also reasonable to expect to experience grief over the many losses that you encounter, such as the loss of your independence, your relationship with your loved one or family members, the list goes on and on. Therapeutic writing is an excellent tool to help […]

  • Aprende a identificar las 10 señales

    Si usted o algún conocido está experimentando pérdida de memoria o cambios de comportamiento, es hora de que conozca la verdad. Detectar la enfermedad de Alzheimer temprano le dará la […]

  • Helping Older Adults cope with Loss and Change

    Older adults face many loses as they age which causes distress and can strain relationships. Explore ways that caregivers can 1) help aging loved ones cope with grief caused by losses of health, identity, homes, and confidence 2) intervene when there is denial and resistance as older adults lose independence, and 3) maintain relationships during […]

  • Dementia – Symptoms, Types, and Treatment

    Dementia is a scary term and is often misunderstood. Dementia isn’t defined as a specific disease. It is generally described as a group of symptoms which affect cognitive and social […]

  • LGBT Caregiving: What’s The Difference?

    Lucy will be joined by Chris MacLellan, MA, published author, and Caregiver Assistance Program Coordinator with the South Florida Institute on Aging. Chris’ experience with being a caregiver for his partner was featured in a 2015 Pulitzer Prize-nominated story. Chris will be sharing his caregiving experience in an interactive session where he and Lucy will […]

  • The role that Grief Plays

    In this talk participants will explore the role that grief plays, it’s various manifestations, stages, and purposes. Grief can appear randomly or repeatedly for unpredictable periods of time. As an emotional companion to loss, grief can sometimes be misunderstood for depression, and lead to improper treatment. Everyone will receive suggestions for understanding and honoring the […]

  • Effective communication Strategies

    This workshop will explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s. You’ll also learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies […]

  • Cómo encontrar recursos para adultos mayores

    Únase a nosotros para aprender maneras de identificar los recursos para las personas mayores en su comunidad. Descubra los servicios disponibles en su área, tales como consejería de beneficios, asistencia legal y otros servicios disponibles para personas mayores y cuidadores de famlia. Join us to learn ways to identify resources for seniors in your community. […]

  • Legal Issues for Caregivers

    I will be talking about the importance of having estate planning documents to plan for later need or incapacity. The documents commonly needed are: Wills, Statutory Durable Powers of Attorney for Finances, Medical Power of Attorney, Directive to Physicians, Declaration of Guardian in the Event of Later Incapacity or Need, HIPAA Authorization, and Appointment of […]

  • Mental Aerobics: “Brain Play”

    Learn about Mental Aerobics, which is a program designed to enhance the self-esteem and cognitive functioning of older adults. Family caregivers is also for YOU. The emphasis is on having […]

  • Dear Lucy

    Lucy Barylak, MSW as “Dear Lucy”. This month she will discuss the difference between normal aging and the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This is an interactive session where Dear […]

  • The Toxic Effects of Chronic Stress

    Is your brain being overactive? Hard to sleep at night? Millions of Americans are suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder and caregivers have extra worries. Please join for a discussion of why stress has become commonplace and what to do about it, especially if you are a caregiver!

  • Coping with Caregiver Stress

    Therapists estimate dementia family caregivers suffer the highest levels of anxiety and depression of any group of caregivers. In this practical presentation, Dr. Tam covers the signs and symptoms of […]

  • Overview of Veteran Benefits through the VA

    Learn who qualifications for veteran or widow benefits. What are those benefits? How income and assets affect qualification. What forms, certificates and other documentation (ie DD-214) are required? What is the benefit application process and tips on how to complete the form correctly? How long does it take to qualify?

  • Behavioral Disturbances in Alzheimer’s disease

    Cognitive decline in Dementia patients is progressive and creates significant psychological distress. Dr. Praderio will outline the most common behavioral disturbances associated with dementia such as agitation, both verbal aggression […]

  • Los cuidados paliativos

    La Dra. Liliana Oakes hablará sobre los cuidados de apoyo y paliativos y la importancia de entender estos servicios. La doctora también hablará sobre la diferencia entre estos apoyos y los cuidados terminales o «hospice».

  • Dear Caregivers: Don’t fear failure

    Many family caregivers strive to succeed at caring well for their loved ones but also live with a fear of failure.They worry that they are going to make a mistake and cause their loved ones to suffer more. They have a “negative bias” in their thinking, focusing more on the one task they’ve done wrong […]

  • Parenting our Parents…Now What?!

    Responding to our parents aging: What happens when roles as parents and children are switched because of illness and disability? What are the key issues and concerns? What does Medicare and Medicaid cover? When and how does the family intervene? These and other questions will be explored.   Parenting Our Parents

  • Adult Protective Services

    Join Ray Kirsch with Adult Protective Services (APS) as he discusses what APS can and cannot do. He will cover the definition of abuse, neglect and exploitation as well as how APS uses the least restrictive options to help maintain individual rights. You will learn about different ways that APS can be a great resource […]

  • Families of choice and of Relations

    Join Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW as they discuss issues impacting LGBT caregivers and those who care for LGBT elders. They will define families of choice as well as explore how to negotiate family dynamics. Also, they will discuss how to identify and access resources to help in the caregiving role.   […]

  • Overview of State of Texas Services

    What services are available for older adults and caregivers through the state. Many of these services are also funded with federal funds.   Overview of State services 6.7.19

  • The Importance of Paperwork

    Join Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW as they discuss how to create an Estate Plan, which includes a Living Will, Advanced Directives, a Will, Revocable Trust, Durable Power of Attorney etc. They will also share how to create “The Folder” on your smart phone where pictures and important documents can be stored. […]

  • Hoarding Disorder: Let’s not Call them Hoarders!

    This presentation focuses on why hoarding behaviors occur. Recently included in the DMS of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, more conversations are being had on this topic and it does not […]

  • A Community to be Proud of

    Join Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW as they discuss how to identify community resources and supports for caregivers. Learn about LGBT-affirming programs and services as well as […]

  • Caring for someone who has Cancer

    Cancer impacts the entire family, not just the person diagnosed. In this teleconnection, Rachel Cannady (Strategic Director, Cancer Caregiver Support – American Cancer Society) will discuss the multidimensional needs of […]

  • The Pride of Professionals

    Join Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW as they discuss how professionals can change the health care culture for the LGBT community. They will share available resources for […]

  • Dear Lucy with Lucy Barylak, MSW

    This month she will discuss how caregivers could and should advocate for their loved ones as well as for themselves within the healthcare system. This is an interactive session where […]

  • Caregiving for the Visually Impaired

    During our “Caregiving for the Visually Impaired” presentation we will cover blindness sensitivity and some basic caregiving information. This will include common types of vision loss, meeting a blind person, […]

  • Take Your Oxygen First!

    Dr. Jamie Huysman, LCSW, CAP has been a fierce advocate for family caregivers, their rights, and wellbeing for over 15 years. Since 2009, “Take Your Oxygen First” has been an ever-evolving call to action for caregivers to engage in taking care of themselves their own sakes, as well as that of their loved ones. This […]

  • Dear Lucy with Lucy Barylak, MSW

    This month she will discuss how to handle difficult behaviors when dealing with a loved one living with dementia. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions […]

  • LOLA – Loss of Life Advocates

    LOLA walks you through as a guide talking about all the things together. “I realized after losing my father in 2014 and then my husband shortly afterwards, there was no […]

  • How do Caregivers Keep on Keeping on?

    How and why do caregivers keep providing care to a loved one day after day, month after month, year after year? Join this session to find some of the reasons, […]

  • On Becoming a Fearless Caregiver

    Learn how to create an internal climate in your mind and body that makes being a caregiver healthier for you.  

  • A Prescription for Caregivers: Rest, Reflect and Recharge

    Feelings of frustration, guilt, anger, grief/loss, crying and sadness are just a few of the real and raw emotions we experience as a Caregiver. Caregivers often become overwhelmed and isolated in their 24/7 care of a loved one. Nestor H. Praderio, M.D. will lead a discussion on the importance of self care and prioritizing your […]

  • Dear Lucy

    This month she will discuss how to handle difficult behaviors when dealing with a loved one living with dementia. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their caregiving journey. **Continuation from August 15th Session**

  • Simplify Self-Care through Music

    Join Janna Cantu, MT-BC, CFSS as she discusses how she sets “self-care to music to so that your brain outsmarts trauma while your body simply listens”! Her beautiful, evidence-based musical interventions teach your mind and body how to turn on the relaxation response ( rest and digest mode) and turn off the stress response ( […]

  • Recognizing and managing the signs of caregiver stress

    Alzheimer’s caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress. It can be overwhelming to take care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other dementia, but too much stress can […]

  • Cuerpo y cerebro sano es vida sana: consejos de las últimas investigaciones

    Únase a nosotros para conocer las investigaciones en las áreas de dieta y nutrición, ejercicio, actividad cognitiva y participación social, y use herramientas prácticas que lo ayudarán a incorporar estas recomendaciones en un plan para el envejecimiento saludable.

  • Hospice Care

    If you were in control of your last months of life, what would you want? What would you want to accomplish? Who would you want to see? When life-prolonging interventions are no longer helpful or desired, hospice can offer support to meet your goals and spend your time focusing on what is important to you. […]

  • Cómo cuidar a las personas que padecen demencia

    El Dr. Néstor Praderio presenta una conferencia para los cuidadores de seres queridos que sufren de la enfermedad de Alzheimer y otras demencias. Esta plática animará a los cuidadores a atender de la mejor manera su propia salud, tanto física como emocional, así como la de la persona que padece demencia.  

  • The Pride of Caring: Issues for the LGBT Caregivers

    While many issues are the same for those who care for someone, some unique considerations arise for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people dealing with their caregiving roles. This session will discuss some of these issues, and will provide an open forum and safe space for asking questions and discussing concerns.  

  • Depression and Anxiety in Older Adults: Identifying Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

    Depression and anxiety can affect any of us as we age, regardless of our background or achievements. Symptoms of elderly depression and anxiety can affect every aspect of one’s life, impacting energy levels, appetite, sleep, and interest in work, hobbies, and relationships. This class will help identify signs, educate regarding symptoms, and explore effective ways […]

  • How to communicate with your loved one’s provider

    Family caregivers have a crucial role to play as partners in healthcare with physicians and other healthcare professionals. But first they need to know how to interact with them most effectively. In this session, we’ll spell out specific methods for communicating information with even the busiest doctors and making yourself a valued member of the […]

  • Do you have questions about how to manage yours or your loved one’s medications?

    Do you have questions about how to manage your medications? Are you concerned about how to recognize potential drug interactions and how to store and remember to take medicine appropriately? Do you know how to store your medications correctly? Do you know if you are taking your medicines the right way? Lucy Barylak, MSW, will […]

  • Staging Your Loved One

    Join Dr Tam Cummings as she explains the seven stages of global decline in the dementia process. Understand where your loved one is now and identify what behaviors will happen […]

  • How Caregivers Can Enjoy the Holidays

    Many seniors, especially caregivers, have treasured memories of holidays filled with friends and family. As we age, the number of those people may dwindle and our energy to reach out […]

  • Communication Tips for Alzheimer’s and Dementia

    Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias gradually diminish a person’s ability to communicate. Communication with a person with Alzheimer’s requires patience, understanding and good listening skills. There are strategies that can […]

  • Caregiving and the Holidays: Changing It Up

    Annual session on surviving and thriving during the holidays as you juggle your caregiving responsibilities with the holidays. The speaker will share the experiences of other caregivers about self care, […]

  • Dear Lucy with Lucy Barylak, MSW

    With the holidays approaching, it can get even more stressful at times trying to balance everything. Dear Lucy will be discussing how to make it through the holidays and still […]

  • Take Your Oxygen First!

    Dr. Jamie Huysman, LCSW, CAP has been a fierce advocate for family caregivers, their rights, and wellbeing for over 15 years. Since 2009, “Take Your Oxygen First” has been an […]

  • Boundaries In Caregiving: Preventing & Avoiding The Martyr Syndrome

    Despite their good intentions, many caregivers unintentionally take on too much, putting their own health and well-being at risk. When caregivers develop “the martyr syndrome” and are reluctant to look for or accept help, the consequences can be devastating. Join us for this interactive discussion on how to set limits in caregiving while still providing […]

  • The Second “Coming Out” for LGBT Seniors: Issues in Aging and Caregiving

    Join Dr. Elliot Montgomery Sklar and Lucy Barylak, MSW as they discuss issues impacting LGBTQ caregivers and those who care for LGBTQ elders. They will discuss being open about sexuality with health care providers, and answer questions surrounding “coming out” in long-term care facilities. **Part of The Pride of Caring: Issues for LGBTQ Caregivers series** […]

  • Entendiendo la demencia

    Una descripción general de los síntomas clave de este síndrome. Aprenda sobre los tipos y causas de la demencia. Comparta su reacción inicial al diagnóstico y cómo se está adaptando al papel exigente de un cuidador.  

  • Caregiving Wasn’t on My Bucket List!

    Sometimes life has its own plans that we didn’t anticipate, which can leave us feeling unprepared for the caregiving journey. This session will address dealing with resentment and anger, and how to cope with feelings of guilt and isolation. **Part of The Pride of Caring: Issues for LGBTQ Caregivers**  

  • Experience Conscious Breathing

    Did You Know - Breathing is the only autonomous bodily system that you can control. Psychologists say that conscious breathing is effective for the reduction of anxiety, depression, and stress. In this session you will learn about the ins and outs of conscious breathing and its stress reduction properties. You will be guided through a […]

  • Resources-R-Us! LGBT and Aging Resources and Supports

    Learn about resources to help navigate the health system as an LGBT caregiver, and the important documents you should have handy. **Part of The Pride of Caring: Issues for LGBTQ Caregivers series**  

  • “Aging Gayfully”: Life After Caregiving

    Join us for a very personal discussion on finding joy in the process of aging as a member of the LGBTQ community, and learn about the evolving programs and services that exist to support aging “gayfully”. **Part of The Pride of Caring: Issues for LGBTQ Caregivers series**  

  • When Enough is Enough: Setting Personal Boundaries as a Caregiver

    Setting personal boundaries is an important step in managing the stress of caregiving. This session will help participants understand what it means to set boundaries, why it is important to set boundaries, and strategies for setting boundaries. Participants will hear strategies from other caregivers on this important topic and will be able to share their […]

  • Estrés de cuidador: Cuando un acto de amor se vuelve una carga agobiante

    Las exigencias emocionales y físicas que son parte del cuidado de una persona mayor enferma pueden estresar incluso a la persona más resiliente. Por ello, es tan importante aprovechar todos los recursos y las herramientas disponibles para manejar el estrės. Expondremos cuáles son las características que definen el estrés de cuidador y como se puede […]

  • Dear Lucy with Lucy Barylak, MSW

    This month she will discuss how to handle difficult behaviors when dealing with a loved one living with dementia. This is an interactive session where Dear Lucy will answer questions and have a conversation with caregivers regarding the issues they face in their caregiving journey.  

  • Addressing common issues family caregivers face

    There are many issues that a caregiver will face when providing care for someone. How do decide what level of care is needed? When is it time to look into long term care? How do you help but still maintain your loved one’s independence? Find out the answer to these questions and many more as […]

  • Alzheimer’s Evaluation and Treatment

    Alzheimer’s Disease is the most widely recognized type of dementia and currently there is no cure. Nestor H. Praderio, MD will review the evaluation process for diagnosing Alzheimer’s Disease and […]

  • Understanding Medication Safety: Taking important steps to protect you and your loved one

    • Do you have questions about how to manage your medications? • Are you concerned about how to recognize potential drug interactions? • Do you know how to store your medications correctly? • Do you know if you are taking your medicines the right way? Lucy Barylak, MSW, will cover all of these areas and […]

  • Medicare and Social Security Scams

    Learn about how to identify Medicare  and Social Security scams and what to do about them.   **Sponsored by the North Central Texas Caregiver Teleconnection**  

  • Understanding Medication Safety: Taking important steps to protect you and your loved one

    • Do you have questions about how to manage your medications? • Are you concerned about how to recognize potential drug interactions? • Do you know how to store your medications correctly? • Do you know if you are taking your medicines the right way? Lucy Barylak, MSW, will cover all of these areas and […]

  • The Dementia Dialogues: Tips and Tricks to Reduce Caregiver Stress

    Ten Practical Caregiver Stress Exercises. These are easily doable techniques that immediately reduce physical and emotional stress in family and professional caregivers. These tips and tricks take anywhere from 30 seconds to 1 hour to do. **Sponsored by VITAS Healthcare**  

  • Coping With the Coronavirus Outbreak while Caregiving

    Join us as we take your questions and discuss Coronavirus. We’ll address: Feeling a sense of control, Not letting fear take over, How to cope with being quarantined at home, and how to prepare, How to manage your stress and stay healthy, Staying positive and seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.  

  • Understanding Medication Safety: Taking important steps to protect you and your loved one

    • Do you have questions about how to manage your medications? • Are you concerned about how to recognize potential drug interactions? • Do you know how to store your medications correctly? • Do you know if you are taking your medicines the right way? Lucy Barylak, MSW, will cover all of these areas and […]

  • Coping With the Coronavirus Outbreak while Caregiving

    Join us as we take your questions and discuss Coronavirus. We’ll address: Feeling a sense of control, Not letting fear take over, How to cope with being quarantined at home, and how to prepare, How to manage your stress and stay healthy, Staying positive and seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

  • A presentation on Grief

    This presentation will help bring a clearer understanding of Grief and offer suggestions to help those who are grieving.   Grief outline 32620