What is it like to be a caregiver? How can I support a friend who is caregiving? How will caregiving impact my children?

The Minnesota Senior Federation-Northwest Metro chapter invites everyone to “Caregiving: Let’s talk about it,” a forum to answer these questions and learn about resources. The free event will be Friday, March 28, at Brooklyn Park Community Center, 5600 85th Ave. N.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. and representatives from local agencies will be available to meet with you before and after a 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. presentation. Join us for refreshments and sign up for door prizes. 

As the population ages and the demand for day-to-day care becomes greater, the responsibility for caring for individuals rests increasingly on their families. Family members who provide care are likely to be untrained in caregiving, left fatigued by their efforts, and filled with unanswered questions. How can the caregiver and care receiver become fully informed about their living choices, and obtain the services and support they need?

This forum will have information about support and resources, as well as living options available to the caregiver and receiver. Caregivers old and new will have the opportunity to ask questions and share experiences in an understanding and sympathetic environment. Attendees will also be able to speak with representatives of local agencies that offer caregiving assistance and services.

The Federation’s forthcoming 2008 Caregiving Choices publication will be introduced at the forum. This resource tool for caregivers has information on area agencies and support services.

To register or to get more information, call 651/645-0261 or 763/522-6103.