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Taking care of a person living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia at home is specialized work. To do this work successfully, caregivers need special skills, knowledge, and a positive attitude that helps them to care for themselves.

St. John’s Community Care offers Savvy Caregiver training sessions several times a year to aid family caregivers in this role.  The Savvy Caregiver Program is a free, six-session training for family and friends who are actively caring for those living with Alzheimer’s or related dementias. St. John’s trainers use curriculum developed by the University of Minnesota for interactive classes.

Each session participants in the class learn relevant techniques and coping skills to manage daily living situations.  It teaches the basic knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to handle the challenges of caring for someone with dementia. With this new knowledge and understanding, family caregivers are able to reduce stress and increase their sense of competence in dementia caregiving.

Savvy Caregiver will help you:
Understand the impact of dementia on both you and the person in your care.
Learn the skills you need to manage daily life
Take control and set goals
Communicate more effectively
Strengthen family resources
Feel better about your caregiving
Take care of you!

Each session is comprised of six two-hour classes. The next series will begin in January 2021.
Sessions are held at St. John’s Community Care, 222 Goethe Avenue, Collinsville, IL 62234

I am caregiver for my husband who has early to mid-stage Alzheimer’s and other health issues.  I attended the six week Savvy Caregiver Class last fall and found it to be helpful in the care of my husband and adjusting to our life as it is now. Since his mother and brother had the disease, I am aware of the progression of the disease; however, I know each person is different.  One of the most helpful aspects of the class was affirmation that I am doing most things right – always room for improvement. So thankful to St. John’s for the support they offer to this community.              Ruth

Each series is limited to a maximum of 12 families. There is no cost to those attending. Registration is required.
For more information or to register, call618-344-5008.

At St. John’s Community Care, we’re here to help you care for your loved one. No matter the situation, we have resources and staff to help you make your loved one’s life as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. From consultations offering resources, to support groups, to early memory loss programs, to adult day programs, to the medical supply loan closet, we are here to help you.