By Renee Larr
Beginning Oct. 14, Boone County Senior Services, Inc. in conjunction with Zionsville Meadows began offering caregiver support groups at Old National Bank in Zionsville from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The group will meet every second Wednesday of the month.
“BCSSI has had caregiver support groups in the past, so this is something that is re-starting in the county. Even though it’s physically going to be in Zionsville, we’re promoting it throughout the county,” Executive Director of BCSSI Anita Bowen said. “We’ve seen an increase in the number of individuals who are caring for family members or friends. So, we have always intended to get this group back up and going. It’s something that’s very important to us and the community. We have individuals that we’re in contact with every week that share with us their concerns and needs related to caregiving. So, we believe this is one way to connect those individuals, not only to us and to the resources, but connect them to each other.”
Caregiving can take its toll on the family member or friend.
“Many times because caregiving is a 24/7 role, the individuals end up feeling very stressed and may even become depressed or overwhelmed,” Bowen said. “A support group is an excellent place for them to come together to share ideas with people that will be in a similar situation and can support one another.”
An experienced social worker and a BCSSI staff member will helm the group.
“We’re very fortunate to have a woman who is going to be the facilitator for the group, Elizabeth Oberholtzer of Zionsville Meadows. She has a background in social work. She’ll also be supported by Jessica Evans, who is our director of outreach,” Bowen said.
The support group is free to attend. For more, or to register in advance, contact BCSSI at 765-482-5220 or 317-873-8939.
