Senior Planet Montgomery - Spring Classes

A Few Seats Are Open for Senior Planet Montgomery’s Free Technology Classes Starting April 9
Registration is open for Senior Planet Montgomery’s spring classes. A few seats are available for free classes starting Tuesday, April 9, at the Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center at 1000 Forest Glen Road in Silver Spring.

The classes offered include:

• Wellness Essentials – participants learn to utilize technology and movement to build a foundation of safe exercise, nutrition, and mental health.
• Ready, Set, Bank – participants learn online banking so that they can decide if it might be right for them.
• Startup! – participants learn to get their small business off the ground utilizing online resources for branding, marketing, and fundraising.
• iPad Basics – participants learn the basics of operating the Apple iPad: using email, internet searching, downloading apps, connecting with others, and much more.

Classes meet twice a week over the course of five or 10 weeks, depending on the course. Designed for learners age 60 and older, these courses train participants to confidently use technology to improve their financial security and health; open a new business; improve their ability to live independently; or just use the internet for better daily living.

Montgomery County offers course instruction, books, and devices to use in class available, at no charge, to participants.

Prospective students may enroll in a course by calling 240-777-8085; or they may register in-person at the senior center.

For more information about Senior Planet Montgomery and to view other spring course offerings, visit seniorplanet.org/montgomery, or contact the team at: 240-753-0676 or via email at mocoinfo@seniorplanet.org.

OASIS - Caregiver Support Group Series

Washington Metro Oasis - FREE Caregivers Support Group Series  

Wednesday, May 8th – June 26th
10:30am-12:00pm
Washington Metro Oasis
Macy’s Home Store
7125 Democracy Blvd. Bethesda, MD 20817

The Oasis Caregiver Series will offer a place to learn from the experiences of others and to encourage those who are in similar circumstances. The sessions will be facilitated by compassionate professionals. Some sessions will spotlight expert guest speakers on a variety of topics to support you in your caregiving journey. Most sessions will allow time for questions and group discussion. This group is strictly for those who are in a caregiver role.

This series is sponsored by Family and Nursing Care. 

Registration is required.

Registration details:
301-469-6800 Press 1, then extension 211 (ask for class #301)

Email  washingtonmetro@oasisnet.org
https://www.oasisnet.org/Washington-DC-area

Art Adventures in Montgomery County, hosted by Arts for the Aging

SPECIAL EVENT

Giving Voice to Memory - An AFTA Community Look-In
Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Long Branch Community Center, 2nd floor

 8700 Piney Branch Rd., Silver Spring, MD 20912

All are welcome! No RSVP required.

In celebration of Women's History Month participants in AFTA Teaching Artist: Candace Wolf's storytelling series "Giving Voice to Memory" have been telling personal stories of what it means to be a woman. Join us for a sharing session to hear from diverse older voices from your local community.

CoOPERAtion

Date: Wednesday, April 3, 2019
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Long Branch Community Center
AFTA Teaching Artist: Peter Burroughs
Explore the world of opera with a professional tenor. Participants will experience musical selections and live performance from their favorite operas while learning about music, sharing stories, dressing in costume, moving to music and, of course, singing.

Looking Out Loud
Date: Monday, April 8, 2019
Time: 11 a.m.
Location: Long Branch Community Center
AFTA Teaching Artist: Donna McKee
By viewing artwork and sharing observations and responses, participants consider various ways that art reflects universal themes and life experiences. During this shared creative process, each person may express their own interpretation of artistic themes, ranging from the inner world conveyed by a portrait to the beauty and wonder of nature portrayed in landscape paintings from ancient China or desert scenes by Georgia O’Keeffe.

The Shape of Things
Dates: Fridays, April 5 and April 12, 2019
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: East County Community Center
AFTA Teaching Artist: Marcie Wolf Hubbard
Create original works of art using a variety of materials! Artist Marcie Wolf Hubbard guides participants in creating collages and memory boxes using “up-cycled” material such as post cards, paper scraps, fabric and jewelry.

Caring for Our Aging Parent and Ourselves, Mindfully: A Workshop for Adult Children

A Workshop for unpaid family caregivers of an aging parent

Date: Saturday May 11, 2019
Time: 10am-12noon
Location: Jane Lawton Community Recreation Center

Registration Essential: Click here

Description: Our ability to care for our aging parents is often complicated by layers of deeply held feelings, emotional reactivity, and inner conflicts, such as love, fear of loss, guilt, old resentments. These complications, in turn, can cause added stress and fatigue. In this experiential workshop, you will join other adult children – in the safe space we create together – to become more aware and understanding of the inner forces shaping your caregiving experience, develop some “mindful” strategies for taking care of yourself and your needs, and gain confidence in your inner resources and abilities to navigate caregiving with greater equanimity, wisdom and compassion.

Facilitated by: Paula Stone—who cared for her aging mother—has had a lifelong interest in personal growth and healing modalities. She is the author of a commercially published self-help book; an award-winning playwright; an experienced support-group leader and trained facilitator; and a longtime practitioner of mindfulness meditation which has included completion of a yearlong mindfulness intensive. She currently leads workshops for adult-children—and facilitates family meetings—about parental caregiving; and her new full-length play Because She’s My Mother is about an adult daughter’s struggles—to balance her life, face loss, and let go—as she cares for her failing mother. Paula is retired from the World Bank, where she serves on the steering committee of the retirees’ “Members Helping Members” program; she has a PhD from MIT.

NAMI - Support Groups

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) provides outstanding support groups throughout the

County.

These FREE programs will be helpful for caregivers, and those they care for.

Get in touch with NAMI!
(301) 949-5852 info@namimc.org

Click here to learn more about all of NAMI's programs

Monday, April 1st 

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Meets every Monday)

Connection Recovery Support Group 

MEDSTAR MONTGOMERY HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER BUILDING

Ground Level (below lobby) Conf Room A/B

18101 Prince Philip Dr., Olney, MD 20832

Tuesday, April 2nd

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Meets every Tuesday)

Connection Recovery Support Group

NAMI MC PROGRAM OFFICE
11718 Parklawn Dr., Rockville, MD 20850

Thursday, April 4
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the Month)
Parent Family Support Group
ST. ANDREW LUTHERAN CHURCH
LOWER LEVEL PRAYER ROOM 109
15300 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, MD 20905

Thursday, April 4

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the Month) 

Connections Recovery Support Group
MC DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES, SILVER SPRING CENTER
Child & Adolescent Health Services,
Woodside Room, 1st fl 8818 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD 20910
*By Ballard St., free parking in lot*

Friday, April 5

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM (Meets the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month) 

Spouse Family Support Group
NAMI MC PROGRAM OFFICE
11718 Parklawn Dr., Rockville, MD 20852

Saturday, April 6

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM (Meets the 1st Saturday of every month)

Family Support Group
NAMI MC PROGRAM OFFICE
11718 Parklawn Dr., Rockville, MD 20850


Connection Recovery Support Groups are for individuals who are living with mental illness. Family Support Groups are for individuals who have a loved one living with mental illness. All Support Groups hosted by NAMI are FREE and NO REGISTRATION is required.

Over 50 & Looking for Employment?

RETOOL, RECHARGE, REINVENT 

Monday, April 15, 2019 • 10am–3pm 

Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center 

5701 Marinelli Road, Bethesda, Maryland 

Easy access via the metro redline — White Flint metro stop. 

* Parking: the Maryland garage requires vouchers, and JCA will provide them

For many caregiver's they have either lost their job or needed to stop working so they could provide care for a loved one. There comes a time when full time caregiving is no longer required and some caregivers still seek to be earning an income and be active in the workforce.

Thankfully every year JCA in partnership with Montgomery County and many sponsors host a large 50+ Employment Fair.

At this FREE event you can:

• network with area employers and community resource organizations
• get a free résumé review
• come away with new job-search skills
• speak with recruiters
• learn about local classes and other supports that will help in the job search

There are dozens of employers with available jobs and community resources to help with your employment search.

Click here to learn more about this valuable event

Senior Housing & Aging in Place Resource Fair

Wednesday May 15, 10am-2pm
Holiday Park Senior Center, 3950 Ferrara Drive, Wheaton

Hosted by Montgomery County's Dept of Recreation

Come and gain information you need to decide whether to stay in your current home or to downsize to our next one. Program is FREE and will feature:

• Exhibitors
• Speakers
• Prizes and Giveaways
• Cafe will be open for lunch
• and much more

OASIS - Spring and Summer 2019 Lifelong Learning classes

It's time to register for Spring and Summer 2019 classes with OASIS

Are you retired and looking for ways to get involved in the community? Join us for exciting classes and volunteer opportunities. From history to yoga to music and more, it's your time for a new adventure with Washington Metro Oasis.

Click here to visit the OASIS webite

Life Long Learning with Live and Learn Bethesda

Live & Learn Bethesda is a non-profit organization that provides classes to the community—and that community includes folks from all over! You don’t have to live in the Bethesda, Md., area to partake in their wide range of program content. Live & Learn seems to really be dedicated to educating and enriching the community.

Through interesting, informative and stimulating classes for people of all ages. Lifelong learning is for families, neighbors and friends and a terrific opportunity to make connections, share interests, and enrich themselves in a wide variety of classes.

Click here to visit their website

Diverse Support Groups through Iona

Are you a family caregiver who is feeling overwhelmed, or anxious, or sad — or all three? Are you struggling with the mixed emotions that come with aging?

Iona support groups offer a much-needed anchor by providing you a space to connect with others experiencing similar situations. Come vent, share stories, and learn coping strategies.

Facilitated by Iona professionals, our support groups give participants the opportunity to:

• Find emotional comfort and moral support
• Gain practical advice
• Compare notes on resources
• Talk honestly and confidentially with others going through the same thing

Descriptions for support groups are below:

Pre-registration is required for our support groups. Please contact us to learn more about availability, speak with a facilitator, and register. Call (202) 895-9448, and ask to speak with our Helpline.

Silver Circles

Peer-led support groups for DC residents who are over 60 and identify as LGBTQ.
Each group meets twice a month. Come connect with other LGBTQ peers, create a safe space to talk about issues that impact you, and build support to help navigate challenges.
Silver Circles is a joint project between Whitman-Walker Health, Max Robinson Center, and Iona Senior Services.
It is free thanks to the support of the DC Office on Aging.
For more information about registration, location, and dates, please email mmitchell@whitman-walker.org or call (202) 939-7646.

Lunchtime Support Group for Family Caregiver

Meets at Iona on the second Thursday of each month from 12 – 1:30 PM. Free.
Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
This support group is for spouses, partners, adult children, and others who are coping with the emotional and physical challenges of caregiving.

Iona/Alzheimer’s Association Support Group for Adult Children Caring for Parents with Memory Loss

Meets at Iona on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month from 6 – 7:30 PM. Free.
Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
Whether your parents are living in this area or are far away, and whether they are appreciative or resistant to your assistance, join us for mutual support and practical caregiving strategies, and ways of coping.

Support Group for People Caring for Their Spouse or Partner

Meets at Iona on the first and third Tuesday of every month from 12:30 – 2 PM. Free.
Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
This group is for people who provide care and support to their spouse or partner who has a chronic or acute illness. You’ll be able to share your experience, get support, learn caregiver tips, and connect with helpful resources.

Transitions in Aging Support Group

Meets at Iona on the first and third Thursday of each month from 12:30 – 2 PM. Free.
Donations are appreciated. Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
This group provides a confidential and welcoming setting for people aged 60+ to meet and share their experiences, get support from each other and Iona’s social workers, make connections with new people and build community, and discover coping strategies and helpful resources to live more fully.

Low Vision Support Group

Meets at Iona on the first and third Thursday of each month from 10 – 11:30 AM. Free. Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
Individuals with low vision – those who are not completely blind – are welcome.

Parkinson’s Support Group

Meets at Iona every Friday from 11 AM – 12 PM. Free. Pre-registration required for this group. Call (202) 895-9448 for more information.
In partnership with the Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area, Iona offers a support group for people with Parkinson’s. Eligibility: individuals with Parkinson’s, not caregivers.

Winter Growth Support Group

Hosted by Winter Growth Adult Medical Day Program

4th Thursdays
4:30-6:00 pm

(pre-registration essential)

Caregiver Support Groups give families the opportunity for emotional support, practical caregiving techniques, and education. Our licensed social workers and guest speakers provide information related to disease progression, symptoms, treatments, and resources. Creative problem solving among caregivers themselves helps to ease the way for all. Sharing the pain, frustration and, often, guilt associated with being a caregiver is critical for mental health. A healthy dose of laughter at some of the situations caregivers experience is also healing to the spirits of those who have taken on an enormous task. Motivated by love, these family caregivers face a daily roller coaster of sadness and joy as they reach out to their loved one. Winter Growth, in turn, reaches out to caregivers to support them in their mission.

Location: 18110 Prince Philip Drive Olney, MD 20832
For more information: 301-774-7501

Well Connected - phone based lifelong learning

As a caregiver you may not always have the time or ability to leave the house to participate in lifelong learning, sharing your knowledge, and caregiver support groups. Also, you may be caring for a loved one who may appreciate a "no stress" opportunity to keep engaged. No need to dress up either!

Thankfully there are telephone based programs, designed for older adults, that offer outstanding classes and conversation groups.
Click here to learn more about Well Connected.

CONNECT FROM ANYWHERE
Well Connected is a community made up of participants, staff, facilitators, presenters, and other volunteers who care about each other and who value being connected. All groups are accessible by phone from wherever you are at no cost to you.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE
Whether you like art or zoology, music or meditation, there is a program for you. Each Well Connected session offers groups and classes on a wide range of topics. You’re sure to find one that interests you. And Well Connected meets 365 days a year, so there’s always a chance to connect.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
Well Connected members call in via a toll-free number at a set time each week, with some groups also offering the option to connect via computer, tablet, or mobile device. Most groups last 30 minutes to an hour with around 12 participants. Newcomers are always welcome! If you don’t feel like talking at first, you’re welcome to just listen as long as you’ve let the group know you’re there.
All programs are hosted by non for profits and/or local government.

Older adults across the United States are welcome to join the wonderful programs.
Click here to view the Spring catalog.


Here are just a few programs.

Senior Center Without WallsBased out of San Francisco, founded in 2004 and going strong Click here for website

DOROT University Without WallsBased out of New York City and provide sessions in English and Russian. Click here for website

Lifetime Connections Without WallsBased out of Austin Texas. Click here for website

Mather LifewaysBased out of Chicago Illinois.Click here for website

Pulmonary Support Groups (inc.via phone)

Support. Friendship. Hope.
Living with a rare disease can sometimes feel lonely. But you are not alone.

PHA has a strong network of local support groups and an active online community. By reaching out to people who’ve been there, you will find fast PHriends who offer support, information and hope for the future. You can connect with the community however you prefer, whether that’s on the web, on the phone, or in face-to-face support group meetings. Click here to visit the PH website.

PHA Caregiver Online Community 
Connect with other caregivers of PH patients online with myPHA, our social network for the PH community. The private group for caregivers will connect you to others like you and offer a space for discussion and support. Join now

PHA Caregiver Mentors
PHA’s Mentor Program includes a team of caregivers who are ready and eager to answer your questions by email. They can’t provide medical advice, but they can share their experiences caring for loved ones with PH and help you find resources to ensure your loved one receives the best care possible. Email a caregiver mentor

Local Support Groups
PHA Support Groups offer knowledge, support, hope and empowerment. There are more than 230 support groups and at least one new group is added each month. You are not alone and there’s a good chance there’s a group meeting near you. Find a local support group

Find Caregiver-to-Caregiver Support
Meet other family members and friends whose loved ones have been diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension in one of our virtual or local support groups.
Connect by phone
Connect by email
Connect in person

Caregiver Support and Loss of a Loved One

Helping People Grow Through Grief and Mourning (In-Person)  

Wednesday, March 6, 2019
9:00am - 10:00am
For more info or to register for this free seminar, go to
https://mhhelpingpeoplemarch.eventbrite.com

Complementary Therapies: Nurturing Through the Senses (Online)
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Presented by Sandra Lavengood, MHSA, LMT
For more information or to register for this free seminar, please visit:
https://MHComplementaryMarch2019.eventbrite.com


Education & Resources
Montgomery Hospice provides diverse education to the community, to professionals and to families. The Montgomery Hospice Center for Learning provides classes, conferences and written material about hospice, palliative care and other end-of-life subjects.

Montgomery Hospice's website contains information for families on advance care planning, and about caring for the caregiver. The website also provides a lot of general hospice information, as well as clinical information and links to research for other professionals.

Their bereavement department counselors provide workshops, support groups, articles and referrals.

They also offer written publications to the community, with articles about grief, hospice, and clinical end-of-life information.

Please call with questions at 301-921-4400.
or
Visit their website: https://www.montgomeryhospice.org/education-resources

Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center

The Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center is a wealth of information and supportive services for caregivers. If you’re living with aging parents, or caring for a loved one or friend, the center is your go-to resource for support, education and the latest on healthy aging, and disease diagnosis and treatment.

Ongoing Support Group for Adult Children
Adult children of all ages who are caring for ill and/or aging parents are invited to discuss problems, share idea and benefit from the support of those who are traveling the same caregiving journey.
Monday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Tuesday, 3:00pm to 4:30pm
Thursday, 10:00am to 11:30am
Location: Holy Cross Resource Center, 9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring, Md.

Support Group for Caregivers of Seniors diverse elders
This group is held upper Montgomery County and offers support for caregivers of all ill and/or aging seniors.
1st/3rd Tuesday, 2:00pm 3:30pm
Location: Gaithersburg Upcounty Senior Center

Support Group for Spouses
Spouses who are caring for ill and/or aging spouses maybe facing the loss of their life's partner, coping with role reversal in their marriage, and much,much more. Bonding within the groups sometimes even helps with the loneliness along the journey.
Wednesday, 10:00am to 11:30am
Friday, 10:00am to 11:30am
Thursday, 3:00pm to 4:30pm
Location: all these groups: Holy Cross Resource Center

Telephone Support Group
This group was created for spouses and adult children who are unable to attend a group in person. Sharing problems and solutions as well as caregiver bonding still occurs.
Tuesday, 6pm to 7:30pm.
Call: 301-754-7152 in advance to obtain the access numbers.

Click here to register for a Holy Cross Caregiver Resource Center class or support group
or
Call Sister Kathy Weber at 301-754-7152 for more information and to register.

Care-Connect Support Groups

A Monthly Gathering for Caregivers — with Facilitator Leslie Mason, LCSW-C

2nd Monday of every month • 6:30pm-8:00pm • Light refreshments served

Caregiver Connect offers the opportunity to connect with other caregivers and discuss common challenges in a welcoming, private setting. It also features educational topics, such as Juggling
Caregiving, Advanced Care Planning, and Coping with Loss.

Leslie Mason, LCSW-C, a Care Manager for Seabury Resources for Aging, will lead the program. Leslie brings over 18 years of experience in care coordination, advocating for clients, and looking for opportunities to enhance their quality of life.

Location: Kensington Park Senior Living: 3620 Littledale Road Kensington, MD 20895
RSVP to 301-946-7700

Hope Connections for Cancer Support

Hope Connections for Cancer Support helps people with cancer and their loved ones deal with the emotional and physical impact of cancer through professionally facilitated programs of emotional support, education, wellness and hope – all provided free of charge.

Their Montgomery County program is located in a historic home in Bethesda where people affected by cancer can escape the clinical environment to connect with and learn from each other.
Their second “home” is located in Landover.

At both locations they provide support groups for people with cancer and for caregivers, educational workshops that provide learning opportunities and mind/body classes that help to rebuild core strength and reduce the high level of stress that comes with a cancer diagnosis.

Their programs are available to anyone affected by cancer, regardless of their cancer diagnosis, stage of disease, age, economic status, race, religion, sex or where they receive their medical care. Our overarching goal is for no one in the Washington, DC metro area to have to face cancer alone.

Click here to learn more about Hope Connections for Cancer Support and their programs.

National Public Health Week 2019

Each year, National Public Health Week is held the first full week of April. This year, National Public Health Week is April 1-7. National Public Health Week is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of public health and highlight issues that are important to improving our nation's health.

As part of this national effort, the Department of Health and Human Services in partnership with Healthy Montgomery, will convene a county-wide health fair. Instead of a traditional health fair at one central location, events will be held across the county throughout National Public Health Week.

Organizations have been invited to host a health-related event at their facility or within their local community. 

Click here to browse the events

Healthy Communities – Caring for Caregivers

Monday, April 1 – 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Location: CHI Health Care (CHI), 15001 Shady Grove Road, Third Floor

Description: CHI Health Care will host an evening of learning and discovery to address Healthy Communities by supporting care for caregivers. Their team of medical providers will focus on handling stress, aches and pains associated with our modern lifestyle through natural methods of self-massage, auricular acupuncture and acupressure, as well as discussing lifestyle habits. Healthy seasonal snacks selected by our dietitian will be provided to inspire the connection to mind, body and spirit.

To RSVP contact: jwalton@chihealthcare.org or call 301-355-2028

Additional Information: This event is free to the public. 

National Public Health Week (April 1-7)

The County’s observance of National Public Health Week (April 1-7) kicks off with an inaugural lecture to honor the legacy of the late Dr. Ulder J. Tillman, the County’s health officer for 13 years. The Ulder J. Tillman Lecture in Public Health will be held on Monday, April 1 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Silver Spring Civic Building. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Janine Austin Clayton, director of the National Institute of Health’s Office of Research on Women’s Health. The event is open to the public.

The Department of Health and Human Services, in partnership with Healthy Montgomery, is planning a county-wide health fair to recognize National Public Health Week (April 1 -7). Rather than a traditional health fair in one location, organizers have asked neighborhood associations, health organizations, schools, businesses and other government agencies to host health-related events throughout the county. More than 50 events are planned throughout the week. 

To see the full calendar of planned events, visit Healthy Montgomery.


For more information about National Public Health Week, visit http://www.nphw.org. For more information about Montgomery County’s events, plus tools and ideas to get started, visit www.healthymontgomery.org or contact Amina Faizan at 240-777-1704 or by email to Amina.Faizan@montgomerycountymd.gov.

Montgomery College Life Long Learning Institute - Spring and Summer program

The Lifelong Learning Institute is committed to creating and fostering a variety of 

intellectually stimulating educational opportunities for Montgomery County residents
age 50 and over. However, adults of any age may register for these classes.
Call 240-567-5188 or click here to visit their website

The Institute's Spring Semester has started…  You can still register for open courses!!!
We want to bring to your attention some concerns regarding student registration. If you are interested in a course, you should register as soon as possible during the registration period.
Register now as if not enough people sign up asap, you registration is important. If you are interested, do not wait, as the course may be cancelled.
Some courses fill very quickly, if you are interested, do not wait.

Summer semester registration begins April 1st!

Senior Tuition Waiver (TWA): Maryland residents 60 years or older by the start date of the class may have tuition waived and pay fee only.

For the Spring semester schedule of Lifelong Learning Institute, Personal Finance Academy, and Career Development courses including full descriptions, please visit www.montgomerycollege.edu/lifelonglearning. Registration moves quickly. If you are interested in a course, please register early. A hard copy of the WDCE Spring catalog and LLI Brochure are now available on all campuses and at your local public library branch.

Please note: The Lifelong Learning Institute has begun using an online course evaluation form, which can be found at www.montgomerycollege.edu/lifelonglearning

Healthcare Decisions Day - April 16, special event

On April 16th Healthcare Decisions Day will take place at the Silver Spring Civic Center at 8:30 am to 11:00 am.

The program is free and will feature a panel of local and regional experts who can address:

• The role of palliative care in helping ensure the quality of life during serious illness
• The current status of palliative care services in Montgomery County
• Key challenges in providing these important resources to patients and families

Click here to learn more and to Register

Healthcare providers, hospice and palliative care staff, payers, patients and caregivers, and anyone concerned about, serving or touched by serious illness are encouraged to attend. Please consider joining us and/or sharing this attached invitation with your networks.

This event is sponsored by the Montgomery County Palliative Care and End of Life Coalition, a public-private partnership promoting integrated and coordinated Montgomery County programs, practices and policies for those with serious illness and their caregivers.

Alzheimer’s Association - National Capital Area Chapter - Early-Stage Social Engagement Programs - Memory Cafes

Alzheimer’s Association Memory Cafes offer a fun and relaxed way for people living with early-

stage memory loss to get connected with one another through social events that promote interaction and companionship.

Pre-registration required. Please contact Sheila Griffith at 240.428.1342 or sagriffith@alz.org

1st & 3rd Mondays, 12:00-1:00pm 

Rockville Senior Center
1150 Carnation Dr, Rockville, MD 20850

Last Thursday of each month, 2:00 – 3:30pmLeisure World of Maryland
3700 Rossmoor Blvd, Silver Spring, MD 20906

2nd Thursdays, 10:00 – 11:30am White Oak Community Recreation Center
1700 April Lane, Silver Spring, MD, 20904

4th Wednesdays, 3:30-5:00pm 

Olney Library
3500 Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832

1st Friday 2:00-3:30pmOasis at Macy’s Home Store
7125 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda, MD 20817


Alzheimer's Association Care Consultation Services Feel overwhelmed and confused after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia? We're here to help. Our care consultation services are designed to provide you and family support in coping with dementia (form pre-diagnosis to end-of-life). You will receive one on one advice to better understand the disease, to manage care, and to make more informed treatment decisions.

Questions: please call Sheila Griffith, Program Manager, Montgomery County-240-428-1342 or email: sagriffith@alz.org

Alzheimer’s Association - National Capital Area Chapter - Support Groups

Peer-led groups for caregivers and others dealing with Alzheimer's disease. All support groups are

facilitated by trained individuals. Many locations offer specialized groups for children, individuals with younger-onset specialized groups from children, individuals with younger-onset and early-stage Alzheimer's, adult caregivers and others with specific needs.

1st and 3rd Friday at 11:45 a.m.

Bradley Hills Presbyterian Church | 6601 Bradley Boulevard, Bethesda, 20817 

Contact: Elaine Byergo 301.906.2520, Lynn Meltzer 301.530.3551 

2nd Saturdays at 10:30 a.m.

Brighton Gardens of Friendship Heights | 5555 Friendship Blvd, Chevy Chase, 20815 

Contact: Terri Adams and Nicoline Rademacher 301.656.1900 

2nd and 4th Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

Gaithersburg Library | 18330 Montgomery Village Ave, Gaithersburg, MD, 20879 

Contact: Kim Painter kim.alzassoc@gmail.com 301.467.2157, Joan Quinlan joan.alzassoc@gmail.com, 301.401.3145 

1st Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

Arden Courts of Kensington | 4301 Knowles Avenue, Kensington, 20895 

Contact: Agnes Collins 301.598.4118 

3rd Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Sunrise of Rockville | 8 Baltimore Rd, Rockville, 20850 

Contact: Carole Ashendorf: csa9606@gmail.com 281.216.0940 

3rd Wednesday at 3:30 p.m.

Brooke Grove Rehab and Nursing | 18131 Slade School Road, Sandy Spring, 20860 

Contact: Bill Neely 301.924.5176 ext 1312, Laura Rounds 301.260.2300

1st Tuesday at 2:30 p.m.

Arden Courts of Silver Spring | 2505 Musgrove Road, Silver Spring, 20904 

Contact: Wendy Johnson 240.413.8690 

(Three groups for adult children)

Mondays at 6:00 p.m., Tuesdays at 3:00 p.m., Thursdays at 10:00 a.m

Holy Cross Resource Center |  9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring, 20902 

Contact: Sister Kathy Weber 301.754.7152 

(Three groups for spouses)

Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m., Thursdays at 3:00 p.m

Holy Cross Resource Center |  9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring, 20902 

Contact: Sister Kathy Weber 301.754.7152 

1st and 3rd Wednesday at 3:00 p.m.

Leisure World on Georgia Avenue | Interfaith Chapel Library, 3680 South Leisure World Boulevard, Silver Spring, 20906 

Contact: Sunny Grunder 301.438.2446, Christina Green 301.570-0525

Alzheimer's Association Care Consultation Services Feel overwhelmed and confused after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia? We're here to help. Our care consultation services are designed to provide you and family support in coping with dementia (form pre-diagnosis to end-of-life). You will receive one on one advice to better understand the disease, to manage care, and to make more informed treatment decisions.

Questions: please call Sheila Griffith, Program Manager, Montgomery County-240-428-1342 or email: sagriffith@alz.org

Alzheimer’s Association - National Capital Area Chapter - Education Program

April 15th, 6:00 – 8:00 pm 

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
If you or someone you know is experiencing memory loss or behavioral changes, it’s time to learn the facts. This workshop is for everyone. It provides compelling information about Alzheimer’s disease, a greater understanding of the difference between age-related memory loss and dementia and what to do if you see signs of Alzheimer’s.
Location: Allen Chapel AME Church 2518 Fairland Rd. Silver Spring, MD 20904

All classes are open to the public unless indicated otherwise and do not require registration


Alzheimer's Association Care Consultation Services Feel overwhelmed and confused after a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia? We're here to help. Our care consultation services are designed to provide you and family support in coping with dementia (form pre-diagnosis to end-of-life). You will receive one on one advice to better understand the disease, to manage care, and to make more informed treatment decisions.

Questions: please call Sheila Griffith, Program Manager, Montgomery County-240-428-1342 or email: sagriffith@alz.org

IRC Scams - How not to get scammed!

by Lisa Weintraub Schifferle
Attorney, FTC, Division of Consumer & Business Education

You’ve probably gotten one of these calls: They say it’s the IRS and they’re filing a lawsuit against you for back taxes. They may threaten to arrest or deport you. What do you do? Click to hear a scam call .

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) worked with AARP to create a series of videos about imposter scams – including IRS imposters, Medicare scams, and robocalls. While the videos are aimed at older Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, the tips apply to everyone. Last week, we highlighted Medicare scams; this week, it’s IRS imposters. Next week, stay tuned for robocalls.

In the video, you’ll hear how these calls may sound – and then learn to spot and avoid these scammers. So, if you get a call from someone claiming to be from the IRS:
Hang up. Don’t give personal or financial information to someone claiming to be from the IRS. If in doubt, call the IRS directly at 1-800-428-1040. 

Don’t send money by wire transfer, prepaid card or gift card to someone claiming to be from the IRS. That’s a scam. The IRS will not require a specific type of payment. 

Report the call. Report phony IRS calls to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) at tigta.gov or to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint. The more we hear from you, the more we can help fight scams.
Tell your community. Let your family and friends know about IRS imposters.

For more information about stopping imposter scams, visit ftc.gov/imposters. And to learn about how to stop unwanted calls, including using call blocking technology, go to ftc.gov/calls.

Support, Connections, Events - Montgomery County Libraries

Montgomery County Libraries are an excellent resource for all ages. As a caregiver you will appreciate staying close to home, maybe even bringing your loved one too!
Libraries are a wonderful resource that provide quality programming at no cost.

Through a recent search of County Library April Events for Adults and Seniors we discovered that everyday of the week at most library locations there are terrific programs that will make getting out of the house an adventure.

All activities are FREE.
Here are just a fraction of what you can enjoy:

• Meditation
• Older Driver Education
• Book Discussion Groups on every imaginable subject
• Computer, eReader and iPad classes
• English Conversation Groups
• RSVP/AARP Tax Aid
• Tai Chi
• Movies
• Money Management
• Yoga
• Bone Builders
• Spanish Conversation Groups
• Citizenship
• and so much more

Click here to view April events in Montgomery County libraries

Montgomery County's Resources Center for Immigrants

Montgomery County's Gilchrist Center is a gateway for County immigrants: they can obtain

information and referrals to programs and services offered by government agencies and community organizations, strengthen their life skills through English and basic computer classes, and increase their knowledge to prepare for civic life and/or U.S. citizenship. The Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center is a community where residents can contribute their talents to help others, and it is a testament to Montgomery County’s commitment to building one of the world’s most welcoming communities.

The Gilchrist Center is part of Montgomery County's Office of Community Partnerships (OCP). Working together with the County's Community Liaisons to the Latino, African, Caribbean, and Asian communities, the Gilchrist Center aims to make Montgomery County one of America's most welcoming communities. Modeled after Welcoming America's national welcoming framework, we have created a Welcoming Framework for Montgomery County, MD.

The Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center offers a variety of programs and services to the Montgomery County community. Click here for more information,  or call (240) 777-4940

Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Class

Learn strategies for good nutrition and physical activity to reduce your risk of heart disease and 

stroke. Montgomery County's African American Health Program's (AAHP) chronic disease classes provide information and resources on how to prevent and manage diabetes, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's and dementia. Taught by Dr. Ikenna Myers, a certified diabetes educator and physician, and featuring nutritional demonstrations by Robina Barlow, AAHP’s diabetes classes discuss proper nutrition, weight loss, and other critical health matters.

Locations :

White Oak Community Recreation Center 

1700 April Lane
Silver Spring, MD, 20904
Wednesdays, 6pm -8pm

Germantown Library 

19840 Century Blvd.
Germantown, MD, 20874
Thursdays, 6pm-8pm

To register visit the African American Health Program online or call 240.777.1833

Re-entering the Workforce? Attend Comeback Careers Seminars

The Commission for Women offers free workshops to assist those looking to return to the workplace.  

Has it been a while since you have worked? Are you trying to change careers? Are you looking for a new job? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then these workshops are for you.

Comeback Careers: Re-entering the Workforce is a five-part series presented by human resource professionals on topics such as crafting the perfect resume; networking tips; creating your own elevator pitch; interview best practices; dressing for the workforce and wage negotiation. Participants can choose to attend one or more seminars. Register to attend these free Comeback Careers seminars

Sessions will be held in Meeting Room #1 of the Silver Spring Library located at 900 Wayne Ave. on Tuesdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in April.

April 2: Resume Workshop
April 9: Networking Tips & Elevator Pitches
April 16: Interview Best Practices & Dressing for the Workforce
April 23: Wage Negotiation
April 30: Wrap Up Session

Click here to learn more about the event and register

National Institutes of Health - Go4Life program

National Institute on Aging at NIH offers an excellent resource for older adults

Staying safe during exercise or physical activity can lower your risk of injury and is especially important when you’re starting a new activity or haven’t exercised in a while.

There are many things you can do to protect yourself while you exercise, including:
Beginning your exercise program slowly with low-intensity exercises.
Including a warm-up beforehand and a cool-down afterward.
Ensuring you’re wearing the appropriate shoes for your activity.
Paying attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

If you have concerns about being active, discuss your plan with your healthcare provider so that he or she can answer any questions you have. Learn about other ways you can stay safe during exercise and physical activity.

Go4Life, an exercise and physical activity campaign from the National Institute on Aging at NIH, is designed to help you fit exercise and physical activity into your daily life. Motivating older adults to become physically active for the first time, return to exercise after a break in their routines, or build more exercise and physical activity into weekly routines are the essential elements of Go4Life. Go4Life offers exercises, motivational tips, and free resources to help you get ready, start exercising, and keep going. The Go4Life campaign includes an evidence-based exercise guide in both English and Spanish, an exercise video, an interactive website, and a national outreach campaign.

Click here to visit the Go4Life website

Journey to Hope DC - Conference and Expo for Alzheimer’s Family Care Partners

Free Event for Family Caregivers
Saturday, May 1, 2019
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.
Medical Building, Conference Rooms 1 & 2
5215 Loughboro Road, NW

Registration required
Free to Alzheimer’s family care partners
$95 for senior service professionals (space available)

The fourth annual Journey to Hope DC Conference provides an opportunity for Alzheimer’s family care partners to get an update on Alzheimer’s care and research, learn tips to manage Alzheimer's disease and its associated behaviors as well as self-care for the person providing care.

There will be time to network and connect with other family care partners who may be experiencing similar situations. Exhibitors will provide information about local resources. Continental breakfast, light lunch and free parking provided for everyone who registers. Call 800-955-2083 for more information and to register for free.

Quincy Samus, Ph.D, Keynote Speaker What Matters Most –Supporting Dementia Caregivers at Home
Dr. Samus is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins Medicine and an applied gerontologist, trained in intervention health services research and epidemiology.

Other speakers
Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia: Current Treatments and New Approaches 

Arnold Bakker, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Division of Psychiatric Neuroimaging
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine

Navigating Safe Passage for the Goodship of Family Care 

Sig Cohen and Carolyn Parr – authors of Love’s Way 

Managing Stress with Self Care 

Tilli Williams, ND
Founder and Executive Director of DC Wellness Institute

Choosing to Care 

Amy Goyer
Author of Juggling Life Work and Caregiving

Register before 5/1/2019 by calling 800-955-2083

The Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area

The Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area invites caregivers to the Brooke Grove PD 

Support group on Wednesday, April 10. It meets the second Wednesday of every month at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, 18131 Slade School Road, Sand Spring, MD. 20860. For information on PFNCA’s support groups in Bethesda, Sandy Spring, Chevy Chase, Rockville and Silver Spring, 

Click here for more information 

New Veterans Clinic in Montgomery County

The Montgomery County Clinic offers primary care, women’s health, mental health and social work services and more.

Veterans in and around Montgomery County, Maryland county now have a closer-to-home option for their health care. The new Montgomery County Community Base Outpatient Clinic (CBOC), located on 15810 Gaither Drive in Gaithersburg, Maryland, provides Veterans with primary care, women’s health, mental health and social work services, as well as nutrition counseling, pharmacy consultations, audiology device fittings and specialty care via clinical telehealth technology. VA community partners will also be on-site to offer access to community resources.

The new CBOC location offers ample parking and is conveniently located to the Shady Grove Metro Station and the Ride On (Bus #63).
Veterans who live in the Montgomery County area can schedule an appointment at the new clinic by calling the medical center’s Patient Service Center, 202-745-8000, option 2.

Click here for more information