BY GEORGETTE P. WARD
LEESBURG – Providing effective and responsible care for our elderly was the focused discussion at an Elder Options elder care workshop on Saturday, October 20, 2023, at Leesburg’s Public Library on Main Street.
Ms. Michelle Davis, from Elder Options, was the facilitator for the well-attended event, which was sponsored by the Tri-City NAACP’s Health Committee. A lively and informative interaction occurred, with pertinent questions concerning personal needs of caregiving and support.
Elder Options helps caregivers of family members or friends get information and training. It also assists with obtaining a caregiver for someone. Ms. Davis told the group how to effectively prepare the home for family members and individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
Ms. Davis said, “use post-it notes on a clock for example, put a picture of a toothbrush on the number 8 or placed on the bathroom mirror to remind them to brush their teeth when they wake up in the morning, put their email address and passwords, pictures of your designated family member who will be the main executive of your affairs in your phone.”
Let your family members have their dignity. If they state and can do basic bodily functions such as dressing themselves, food shopping and or paying their own bills, let them.
Elder Options will give an extensive intake interview to assess your family needs. Training, support groups, and community education are offered online and in person. End of Life Doulas are available for counseling services to families facing an end of life situation. Veteran Directive Care information is also available.
Kathy Williamson, chair of the Tri-City NAACP Health Committee, coordinated the successful event.
