Summer/Fall 2004
Facing Bench

Willoughby Hills Care Givers Seminar

On October 2, 2004 Willoughby Hills Friends Church in Willoughby Hills, Ohio presented a Caregiver's Seminar entitled "Managing the Care of Your 'Aging' Loved One." The all day event focused on the emotional, physical, financial, and spiritual needs of caregivers and those they care for. Six speakers for the event included a nurse and a physician speaking on various aspects of aging and dementia, an attorney who specializes in Elder law and estate planning, a representative for the Lake County Council on Aging, and a hospice representative.

The afternoon was concluded with a talk on one family's journey with Alzheimer's Disease. During break times, as well as during the catered lunch time, attendees were able to browse the display tables of many health care and equipment providers. Much information was available for those who are actively engaged in care giving, as well as those who are planning for the day when they will be care givers.

The seminar was heavily advertised in the community through flyers, radio, and word of mouth resulting in a welcome attendance of churched as well as un-churched people.

"Managing the Care of Your 'Aging' Loved One” was a great success and opened the door for the church to host many such events in the future where Christ can be proclaimed.

Submitted by Jim Belt,
Senior Adult and Visitation Pastor