The Iowa State Extension and Outreach Office in Washington and Halcyon House in Washington will be providing a series of free classes for caregivers sponsored by Moore’s Towing. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers classes are designed to empower family caregivers to take better care of themselves. The series of six classes, held once each week, offers tools and support to help reduce stress, solve problems, and communicate confidently when faced with tough decisions.

Dawn Dunnegan, a Human Sciences Specialist, talked with KCII Radio about some of the unknown side effects that come with being a full-time caregiver. “Many times, in a caregiving role, we focus on the care receiver. However, research shows the health of the caregiver declines much more significantly than those of their peers who are not caregiving. So, we talk about things like stress management, communication skills, and where to find resources in the community.”

Topics covered during the classes include Identifying and reducing personal stress, communicating feelings, communicating in challenging situations, and mastering caregiving decisions. Classes will be held on October 13th, 20th, 27th, November 3rd, and 17th, with the final class being on December 1st.  Each class will begin at 10:00 am in the Marshall Game Room at Halcyon House located at 1015 South Iowa Ave in Washington.