(Courtesy of JFCS) On September 15, Jewish Family & Children’s Services of Northern NJ (JFCS) will host its first program within a series of sessions focused on the caregivers of loved ones with dementia. Funded by a generous donation from Ilene Wolff, this event features an experiential session with Maria Sirois who will be speaking on the topic of Resilience: The Art and Science of Self Care.
But Who Takes Care of YOU? is designed to focus on the caregiver, providing tools, information, social interactions and support. It is easy to neglect personal needs and health when caring for a loved one with dementia, and this session is designed to give caregivers a break from their all-too-consuming role.
Caregivers of dementia patients are typically under significant stress all the time. “We hope to provide a couple of hours of laughter and lightness to devoted spouses and adult children who never have time for themselves,” said Susan Greenbaum, CEO of JFCS. Through Maria’s session we expect that participants will learn about resilience-building tools and perspectives that increase capacity, calmness and clarity. Caregivers will have the opportunity to interact with others who face similar circumstances and also discover ways that JFCS can support them on an ongoing basis.
Maria Sirois is zealous about the science of well-being and the art of crafting a life that embodies health, passion and success. As a positive psychologist (Psy.D.) and consultant, she focuses on the resilience of the human spirit, particularly when under chronic stress.
The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 15, at Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly. While there is a suggested donation of $18 to attend the session, adult care will be provided free of charge by the JCC. The session also includes a kosher brunch.
Interested caregivers can register for the event at www.jfcsnnj.org/caregiver or by calling (201) 837-9090. Adult day care can be arranged through Judi at the JCC by calling (201) 408-1450.
For more information about JFCS or to make a donation, please visit www.jfcsnnj.org.
