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 Caregiver Support Groups

Winter Growth's 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. 

Offering, 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 in Montgomery County

Montgomery Co: 18110 Prince Philip Drive, Olney, MD 20832

For more details call: 301-774-7501

Hearing Impaired: Dial 7-1-1 and ask for MD. Relay.
Need Language Interpreter: Phone 301-774-7501 for arrangements.

Survivors of Suicide Attempt Support Group

This FREE 8 week closed group will be co-facilitated by two leaders trained in the Didi Hirsch support group model and with experience in suicide prevention and intervention. 

There is no cost to participate and light refreshments will be provided.

Sundays June 9th through August 4th*
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 

Group Meeting Dates *June 9, 16, 23, 30, July 14, 21, 28, August 4

To determine whether this group is right for you, please contact:

Lorraine Helferich at 301.424.0656 x516 or supportgroup@Every-Mind.org.

Encourage, lift and strengthen one another. For the positive energy spread to one will be felt by us all. For we are connected, one and all.
-Deborah Day

See Me at the Smithsonian

Individuals with dementia and their care partners are invited to participate in facilitated small group

discussions and engage with wonderful aspects of the Smithsonian art collection.

These special Smithsonian programs are FREE and allow care partners and their loved ones to enjoy a gallery experience led by specialist staff. Sessions are offered weekly throughout June.

Space is limited | Registration is required | access@si.edu | 202.633.2921

Smithsonian American Art Museum
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
2:00 p.m.  -  3:30 p.m.

National Portrait Gallery
Wednesday, June 12, 2019
10:00 a.m.  -  11:30 a.m.

Freer Sackler
Wednesday, June 19, 2019
2:00 p.m.  -  3:30 p.m.

National Museum of African Art
Tuesday, June 25, 2019
2:00 p.m.  -  3:30 p.m.

OASIS - Caregiver Support Group Series

Washington Metro Oasis offers a FREE Caregivers Support Group 

Wednesday, June: 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th
10:30am-12:00pm

Held at: Washington Metro Oasis
Macy’s Home Store
7125 Democracy Blvd.
Bethesda, MD 20817

Description: The 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)

To contact via email: washingtonmetro@oasisnet.org
Oasis Website: https://www.oasisnet.org/Washington-DC-area

Montgomery County - Men's Health Expo

Inviting Men 55+

FREE EVENT

Thursday, June 6, 2019
10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Location: North Potomac Senior Center
13850 Travilah Road | Rockville
240-773-4800

Hablamos Español | www.mocorec.com

Featuring:

• Wellness Screenings
• Mini Classes
• Blood Pressure
• Checks
• Classic Car Show
• Golf Clinic
• Boxing
• Workout Meditation

Ladies Welcome
Health and Wellness Vendors

Click here to register

Beware of Identity Theft

Not all vendors at Health Fairs are honest!

A "free" DNA test to learn whether cancer or another disease is your fate? Not so fast. In the latest ploy, scammers have been calling older Americans, as well as showing up at health fairs and assisted living facilities claiming that Medicare is offering free DNA tests. But are these scammers only after a little saliva? Keep reading to learn what’s really at stake in this week’s TMI.

Threat: Your Medicare Information & Social Security number Do You Need to Worry: Yes! Scammers aren’t interested in the future of your health but they are very interested in your personal information. In this particular scam, fraudsters tell unsuspecting individuals the DNA test is covered by Medicare and that they just need your Medicare card and your Social Security number. With this information, scammers might obtain medical care using your name, sell the information on the dark web or commit other forms of identity theft. 

What Can You Do About It: · Hang up if you receive a call offering free DNA testing and never give your Medicare/insurance number or date of birth to anyone for a test not ordered by your own physician.
· You might also consider freezing your credit to keep your identity safe. Keep in mind that if you still need to enroll in Medicare and have already frozen your credit, you’ll need to temporarily unfreeze it.

Click here learn more about this scam and others Identity Theft Resource Center    

Meeting LGBTQ+ Older Adults Where They Are: A Local Story

By Lavina E. Tomer | 5.16.2019

The challenges, issues and benefits of aging in America aren’t experienced by everyone in the same ways. Minority communities such as older people in the LGBTQ+ community have faced a long history of discrimination, hate, violence, and systematic neglect.

Older LGBTQ+ people have been forced to live “in the closet” and find other ways to hide their sexual orientation or gender identity. Not doing so often risks the loss of a job, family, faith community, friends, and critical service providers.
Intentional effort can make a difference

Southern Arizona Senior Pride (SASP), in Tucson, AZ, is an all-volunteer grassroots organization that acknowledges the disparities in safe, welcoming services and care for LGBTQI+ older people. Senior Pride provides services that include monthly events: Speakers Series, Elder Circle, Book Club, Dance Classes, a Class to Prevent Falls, and an Intergenerational Potluck. To further interrupt isolation The Community Cares Program-Tucson provides friendly visits and phone calls to homebound people 55+ and people with disabilities of any age. We hold regular Grief Support Groups. Annually we have a poetry reading and film. We are members of the Elder Alliance and GLBT Chamber of Commerce. We partner with Pima Council On Aging, YWCA Tucson, Center for Community Dialogue, Interfaith Community Services, Soreo Hospice, PFLAG, and The UA Institute for LGBT Studies.

SASP strives to raise awareness about the unique issues facing older LGBTQ+ adults, and encourage implementation of inclusive policies. Our work celebrates, supports, and unites the LGTBQ+ community in Southern Arizona! Having lived with fear, isolation, economic consequences, and more for many years, it’s important that LGBTQ+ older adults get support uniquely crafted to meet their needs.

Learn more about Southern Arizona Senior Pride here.


About Lavina E. Tomer
Lavina Tomer has been the Chair of Southern AZ Senior Pride for nearly 5 years. She works with an outstanding team of volunteers who sustain Senior Pride’s mission, vision and goals.

Consumer Guide on Assisted Living

The Maryland Health Care Commission is an independent regulatory agency whose mission is to

plan for health system needs, promote informed decision-making, increase accountability, and improve access in a rapidly changing health care environment by providing timely and accurate information on availability, cost, and quality of services to policy makers, purchasers, providers and the public.

The Commission's vision for Maryland is to ensure that informed consumers hold the health care system accountable and have access to affordable and appropriate health care services through programs that serve as models for the nation.

The Customer Service promise to the citizens of Maryland

The Maryland Health Care Commission launches an expansion of their wearthecost.org website, a campaign aimed at increasing transparency of hospital pricing in the state.

Consumer Guides
Information on understanding, planning and paying for long term care, as well as advance directive information, options for living at home, alternate living arrangements, and information on nursing home, adult day care, assisted living, home health and hospice facilities.

Click here to view Maryland State Health Care Commission's Consumer Guides

Consumer Guide to Long Term Care The Consumer Guide to Long Term Care is a resource which helps you find services you can receive in your home or community such as skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services, housekeeping, meal preparation and many more.

Assisted Living Assisted living residences provide a home and support services to meet the needs of residents who are unable to perform, or who need help in performing, activities of daily living. Assisted living residences may provide assistance with meal preparation, household chores, managing medications, and dressing or bathing. People who live in assisted living residences generally have less complicated health and assistance needs than people in nursing homes. This housing option enables seniors to remain in a home-like setting in their communities and promotes their independence and dignity.

Not all assisted living residences are the same, and different residents will have different needs. Facilities may range from a small home with one resident to larger facilities with 100 or more living units. Selecting an assisted living residence that fits your needs is an important and personal decision.

The Maryland State Assisted Living Services Search Tool provides useful information to help you choose an assisted living facility that is right for you or someone you care about. The search includes the 350 assisted living residences in Maryland with 10 or more beds. You can find contact information, rates charged for accommodations services available and the results of the inspections of each residence (survey reports) done by the state Office of Health Care Quality OHCQ). 

Click here to visit the Maryland State Assisted Living Services Search tool

Each Assisted Living residence is required to complete a Uniform Disclosure form describing its services and policies. Fee structures for assisted living vary, with some facilities charging a single fee based on the resident level of care while others provide an “a la carte” menu of services. It is important to understand what is included in the base monthly rate, what services require an additional charge, and circumstances under which fees may increase. The Uniform Disclosure Form includes fee information and is required to be filed with the Office of Health Care Quality as part of an application for licensure. The Uniform Disclosure Form must be made available upon request or be part of the Assisted Living marketing materials.

If you prefer an assisted living residence that is smaller than 10 beds, the Office of Health Care Quality maintains a directory with all assisted living residences in Maryland. The directory is organized by county. It provides name, address, phone, contact name and number of beds for each currently licensed residence. To view or download this list, go to the link that follows: : https://health.maryland.gov/ohcq/docs/Provider-Listings/PDF/WEB_ALP.pdf.

Community Services for Older Adults and People with Disabilities

Several programs work hand-in-hand to provide community services and supports. They empower older adults and people with disabilities to live in the community. Each program has different requirements based on financial eligibility and level of need.

About Community First Choice, Community Options, Community Personal Assistance and Increased Community Services

What do these programs offer and who do they serve?

The programs provide assistance with activities of daily living to Medicaid recipients who have a chronic illness, medical condition or disability. Services are provided in the eligible individual's home or community residence (waiver participants may receive services in an assisted living facility). Other services in each program vary. Please see each program’s fact sheet for information about the specific services provided through the program.
Community Personal Assistance Services Fact Sheet
Community First Choice Fact Sheet
Community Options Waiver Fact Sheet
Increased Community Services Fact Sheet
Resource Guide for Supports Planners and Providers


How Do I Apply To Receive These Services?

To apply, please contact the Department at 410-767-1739. Qualified applicants must meet both the Medicaid Program’s financial and medical requirements. An assessment completed by your Local Health Department determines medical eligibility. Financial eligibility is determined by either the local Department of Social Services or by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Once you are determined eligible, each participant or his or her representative will choose an approved Supports Planning Agency to guide them through developing a plan for services.

What Services Are Provided?

Services provided in the program include assistance, or items that substitute for assistance, with the following activities of daily living:
Bathing;
Toileting;
Mobility, including transferring from place to place;
Eating; and
Dressing

Individuals who need help with activities of daily living may also receive help with:
Household services related to medical needs;
Escort services to a medical appointment; and
Personal hygiene and grooming.

American Society on Aging - Webinars

Register Now for Upcoming Webinars

Tuesday, June 4
Caregiving for People with Non-Alzheimer’s Dementia

Wednesday, June 5
Isolation and Loneliness

Thursday, June 6
Confronting Self-Neglect: An Elder Maltreatment Sticky Wicket

Tuesday, June 11
When Care Comes to You: Tips for Using Home Health Aides, PTs and OTs

Wednesday, June 19
Building and Financing Sustainable Partnerships between Healthcare and Community-based Organizations

Tuesday, June 25
Addressing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among People Living with Dementia


Click here to view full details, more webinars and to register

(Remember ASA webinars are listed on its website as Pacific Coast Time)

A Primer on Managed Care: Multiple Chronic Conditions

“A Primer on Managed Care: Multiple Chronic Conditions” is the third of three field guide supplements to Generations and the latest resource from the Aging and Disability Business Institute. 

This issue explores the Chronic Care Act that advances integrated, person-centered care for Medicare beneficiaries and dual eligible persons, including provisions for social determinants of health and the potential for reimbursement for these services. 

This 88 page document provides a thorough insights to long-term care.

View the Managed Care Field Guide here.

The Financing of Long-Term Care: An American Conundrum

Americans do not, generally, plan for their own very likely future need for long-term care, and the

federal government has yet to offer a program that meets these needs for most people. Family caregivers provide much of that care, at great cost to them, and long-term care insurance has shown limited success in uptake, as well as a dwindling presence in the insurance marketplace. What lies ahead for the burgeoning population of older adults that will need long-term care?

In “America’s Long-Term Care Conundrum,” Guest Editor Ruth Katz succinctly lays out the psychology behind not planning for our own needs in older adulthood, especially the need for long-term care, and describes what she learned in a listening tour of the United States, wherein she was schooled in what happens on the ground when people need and use long-term services and supports. Our current way of financing LTSS is unsustainable, Medicaid is not the solution, family caregivers are at a breaking point, and politics are standing in the way of a solution. But there is hope in learning from how other countries have solved their similar long-term-care quandaries.

Barbara Coulter Edwards and Aditi P. Sen, in their article, “High Demand and Fragmentation: The Current State of Long-Term Services and Supports in America,” explain the current challenges to financing long-term care, especially as people age into the frail elderly category; how increasing levels of cognitive decline will affect long-term-care costs; workforce shortages (which may be exacerbated by new immigration policies); and how policy makers and legislators might approach solutions through coordinated state and federal efforts.

In “Re-imagining the Delivery of Care for Older Adults with Chronic Conditions,” Howard Gleckman describes how the delivery of medical treatment and social supports in the United States is uncoordinated, and degrades the quality of life of older adults with chronic conditions, as well as possibly adding unnecessarily to costs. But now some public policy changes and market initiatives are resulting in the development of new models that better integrate care. What might they look like?

Robyn I. Stone, in her article, “Financing Long-Term Services and Supports—and the Challenge of Underlying Assumptions,” writes of the almost 30 years’ worth of options for financing long-term care that have been explored. Since 1990, policy makers, insurers, providers, consumer advocates, and researchers have struggled with underlying assumptions that affect the nature, scope, and political viability of any long-term services and supports program: Should a program be medical or functional? Is it a quality-of-life issue? Should such a program cover all people or just older adults? Should participation be mandated or not? Should the program be funded at the national or state level? The path ahead remains unclear.

Click here to continue reading this story and for more American Society on Aging information

Isolation and Loneliness - How to overcome

WEB SEMINAR

Wednesday June 5

1pm (EST)

Research shows that loneliness can have significant health implications, worse than that of obesity, alcoholism and even smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Older adults are at a higher risk for isolation and loneliness. 

There are a number of factors that can contribute to isolation and loneliness, including a shrinking number of family members available for support. There are, however, common warning signs to help identify when an older adult may be feeling lonely or isolated. 

Part of the Home Instead Family Caregiver Support Series, registration for this web seminar is available for no charge and includes complimentary CE credits.

Learn more and register.

Caregiving for People with Non-Alzheimer’s Dementia

WEB SEMINAR - Tuesday June 4 

2pm-3pm (EST)

In recent years, research on Alzheimer’s disease has increased significantly, but there has been less focus on other types of dementias. Because less is known about non-Alzheimer’s dementias, under- and misdiagnosis is common, treatment protocols are lacking and it is not clear how best to support people with these dementias and their caregivers. 

This web seminar will provide an overview of the three most common causes of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease, which include Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal degeneration and vascular dementia. Presenters will draw upon available information to describe caregiving for people living with these dementias. Special attention will be given to how caregiving for people with Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal degeneration may be different from Alzheimer’s disease. 

Part of the National Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center webinar series, sponsored by the Administration for Community Living, registration for this web seminar is available for no charge and includes complimentary CE credits.

Learn more and register.

Preserving and Celebrating the Stories of LGBTQ Older Adults with StoryCorps®

By Madison Mullen | 5.28.2019  

SAGE, an organization dedicated to advocacy and services for LGBTQ+ older adults, knows a large percentage of LGBTQ+ adults over age 50 in the United States report feelings of isolation, lack of companionship, and disconnection from the younger LGBTQ+ community.

This June marks a half-century since the Stonewall riots, and StoryCorps®, a non-profit organization that records, preserves, and shares meaningful conversations, is celebrating the voices and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community with Stonewall OutLoud. This national effort will inspire Americans of all ages to record the personal stories of people within the LGBTQ+ community, particularly those who were born before 1969. StoryCorps® joins a coalition of partners on this project including SAGE, the National LGBTQ Task Force, GRIOT Circle, and GLSEN.

Our aim is to connect older and younger generations, and preserve LGBTQ+ history so future generations can understand the past—and continue working toward a more accepting future.
Take part with the StoryCorps® App

You can sit down with an interview partner or preserve your own story. Find some questions to get started, and with the StoryCorps® app installed on a mobile device, hit “record.” After you’ve finished your recording, tag it with the keyword “Stonewall OutLoud” and upload it to our archive. It will become a permanent part of history at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.

Get inspired by watching selected animations, listening to powerful stories that have already been recorded, or searching the StoryCorps® Archive for additional stories.

If you’d like to spread the word by hosting an event of your own with inspiration and support from StoryCorps®, read our toolkit to help you plan.

For more details click here visit the National Council on Aging

Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area

June 2019 PFNCA submission for MOCO Caregivers

The Parkinson Foundation of the National Capital Area invites caregivers to the Rockville/Ingleside King Farm Support Group.  

It meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 2 PM at
701 King Farm Blvd., Rockville, MD 20850.  

For more information contact Nancy Tietjen at (240) 912-4229. For information on PFNCA’s support groups in Bethesda, Sandy Spring, Chevy Chase and Silver Spring, please visit www.parkinsonfoundation.org.

Alzheimer’s Association - National Capital Area Chapter, Memory Cafes

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 2:00-3:30pm 

Oasis 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, Education Programs

June 5th, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm 

The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’sDesigned for those who want to learn more about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and those who have noticed memory or thinking changes in themselves or others. This program explores the most common warning signs of Alzheimer’s and to help you understand what is normal aging and what is not.
Montgomery Village Health Care Center 19301 Watkins Mill Rd. Montgomery Village, MD 20886
June 11th, 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm 

Healthy Living for your Brain and Body
At any age, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain or even potentially improve our health, keep our brains well and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. This workshop covers four areas of lifestyle habits that are associated with healthy aging. This program is designed for individuals of any age who are looking for information and hands on tools to help incorporate recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.
Brookdale Senior Living- Potomac 11215 Seven Locks Rd Potomac, Maryland 20854

June 13th, 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease makes planning for the future more important than ever. Concerns about care provision and programs that can help offset costs mean that families need accurate information about legal and financial planning specific to the disease. This workshop will help you learn how to access legal and financial resources near you.
Gaithersburg Library - 18330 Montgomery Village Ave., Montgomery Village, MD 20886

June 25th, 11:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Effective Communication Strategies
Communication is more than just talking and listening- it is also about sending and receiving messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. This program explores how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s disease. Learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies to help connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.
Fox Hill Residences - 8300 Burdette Rd, 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 

Contract: 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 

Contract: Wendy Johnson 240.413.8690

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

Holy Cross Resource Center | (Three groups for adult children) | 9805 Dameron Drive, Silver Spring, 20902 

Contract: Sister Kathy Weber 301.754.7152

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

Holy Cross Resource Center | (Three groups for spouses) | 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 

Contract: 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

Care for the Caregiver Event, June 15 - update and schedule

We are just a few days away from Montgomery County's Care for the Caregiver Event. 

Click here for program schedule

Saturday June 15, 10am-4pm 

Silver Spring Civic Building
1 Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring

We know your time is valuable, so have designed an event filled with: welcoming presentations and uplifting community conversations with experts who have extensive knowledge of support and resources for family/friend unpaid caregivers. For the Resource Fair we have recruited local non-profit organizations that provide caregivers with practical hands-on help. The day will end with a Listening Session – inviting caregivers to share their needs and wants.

You are welcome to attend for a few hours or the whole day!
Our VIP guest is County Executive Marc Elrich – joining us for the 2.45pm Listening Session

As part of the Community Conversations:

• The Smithsonian Museum will feature its groundbreaking SEE ME program for caregivers and their loved ones with Dementia.
• Connect with Respite Care that provides support and peace of mind for family/friend caregivers who live with a loved one.
• Hear about health care support available in faith communities.
• Discover how to keep your loved-one living at home and ensure they stay physically and mentally healthy.
• Learn about adult medical day care that offers reliable and affordable support for frail loved ones still living at home. 

The County’s Minority Healthy Initiatives present: 

• Asian American Health Initiative, Loneliness and Social Isolation in Asian American older adults. This session will include the launch of its 5th social novel, devoted to caregivers and social isolation, translated into English, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Hindi. 
• Latino Health Initiative, Healthy Me – Caring for You, for Spanish speakers. This interactive workshop will inspire caregivers to keep fit, maintaining their health and wellness. 
• African American Health program, Self-care: Alleviating Stress and Giving Back to Yourself, focusing love of self, delicious food choices for everyday eating and pathways to avoid unique health risks. 

The Resource Fair has secured two affordable housing repair non-profits that seek new clients to support; GROWS will help caregivers gather information about their eldercare members; the County’s Recreation, Aging and Disability Services and Transportation are attending ready to connect caregivers with County supports; for caregivers whose loved one is dealing with emotional/mental health challenges we have two local nonprofit provider organizations. Learn how your loved one can stay at home and you can receive support through Respite Care, pick up new Montgomery County specific Caregiver publications in multiple languages (no-cost) and discover what life long learning opportunities are available throughout the County. For the LGBTQIA+ community our team of advisers present a collection of regional health and well-being supports.

• The Care for the Caregiver event coincides with the Silver Spring Farmers Market, 9am-1pm. Perfect to pick up healthy snacks, meal and produce, (it’s OK to bring these into event) 
• FREE parking, opposite the Civic Building, Town Square Garage, 801 Ellsworth Dr, Silver Spring, MD 20910

We encourage everyone to register so we can stay connected.

Share with family, friends, colleagues and neighbors: https://moco-caregiver.blogspot.com/

Click here for the full schedule

A Guide to Caregiver Supports - in Montgomery County - new publication

Montgomery County Cares about Caregivers

Caregivers are a vital part of the community - they are unpaid family, friends, partners, colleagues, neighbors, members of faith communities and volunteers. Research has proven when caregivers receive support, they can better maintain their own health and be more effective as a care partner.

Montgomery County's Caregiver Support Program's "A Guide to Caregiver Supports - in Montgomery County",  presents a range of practical resources for caregivers. County and community-based services are available to help caregivers, these include: support groups; in-home assistance; relief with day to day chores; enrichment activities; education and connection with other caregivers.

Click here to view "A Guide to Caregiver Supports - in Montgomery County", 16 page booklet.

Montgomery Hospice: A Workshop on Grief for the LGBTQI Community

Be part this two session workshop, professionally facilitated by members of the LGBTQI community,

and share your grief about the death of a loved one as well as learn about coping strategies

Monday, July 15 and 22, 2019
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Location:
Montgomery Hospice Offices, 1355 Piccard Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850

Participants should be at least 3 months from the time of their loss.

Free and Registration Required.
Open to anyone living or working in Montgomery County.

For more information or registration, please call: Montgomery Hospice, Bereavement Care:

301-921-4400

Click here for Montgomery Hospice website 

Maryland State - Senior Call Check

Maryland Department of Aging is asking your help in identifying and registering people who would like to receive an automated wellness call daily. For more information, click here

HOW DOES IT WORK?
Every day a automated telephone call will be placed to a participant at a regularly scheduled time. These calls will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. as close as possible to the one-hour time block pre-selected by the participant. If the participant does not answer their first call, they will be tried two more times. If those calls go unanswered, additional calls will be made to notify an alternative person who is selected by the participant during program enrollment. This could be an adult child, a neighbor, or another loved one. The alternate will then be encouraged to check on the older adult program participant.

WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Any Maryland resident who is 65 years of age or older who has a landline phone or cell phone. The participant and alternates should not have automated call blocking technology (or they should disable that phone feature for this program).

For Maryland residents who qualify for the program but who do not have access to the Maryland Department of Aging website, www.aging.maryland.gov, you may call our toll-free number to register by phone: 1-800-243-3425

LGBT Free Event - May 10

Silver Pride is a free community event in Washington, DC offering a day of workshops, resources,

and social experiences for LGBTQ people 60 and over. In observance of Stonewall's 50th anniversary year, come celebrate those who have been at the forefront of the movement for LGBTQ rights and liberation.

Presented by Whitman-Walker Health in partnership with Iona Senior Services and AARP, and in collaboration with Capital Pride Alliance and community partners from the LGBTQ Aging Services Network.

DATE: Friday, May 10, 2019

​LOCATION: Equality Center at HRC,1640 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

HOST: Rayceen Pendarvis of The Ask Rayceen Show

Schedule

2:00 - 5:00 - Tabling and resource fair - Equality Forum

2:00 - 4:45 - Fellowship, snacks, slide show - bar area

3:00 - 4:15 - Workshop Session 1 - Conference rooms A, B, C

4:30 - 5:15 - Workshop Session 2 - Conference rooms A, B, C

5:30 - 7:00 - Dance party - bar area

Cap off the day with Edward Daniels "DJ Scorpio" and your host, Rayceen Pendarvis, who will dance the sun down.

Find out more information and keep up with the latest news at silverpridedc.org. We look forward to seeing you there!

The event is free and there is no need to register; just come and bring a friend or two!

LGBTQIA+ Health and Supports

Montgomery County has establish an LGBTQIA+ Advisory Group to better identify needs of support for caregivers (and many more important topics).

A key goal is to stimulate local organizations to provide LGBTQIA+ Caregivers trusted programs.  In the meantime there are a number of regional not for profit organizations that provide consistent LGBT support.
(This list is not exhaustive and will continue to grow)

LGBT Health Resource Center of Chase Brexton Health Care

Providing LGBTQ individuals and their families with welcoming access to expert health information and resources that will enhance wellness and quality of life.

The health care system has been slow to offer comfortable and affirming health services to LGBT communities - in fact, Chase Brexton was founded for this reason. And, through the years, Chase Brexton has grown – but continues to uphold LGBT history: equal, expert, and affirming health care.

Whether you are questioning, bisexual, queer, transgender, gay, lesbian, or unsure where you fit, the LGBT Health Resource Center is here for you. Our amazing team is ready to work with you and do all we can to help you live your healthiest possible life!

https://www.chasebrexton.org/our-services/lgbt-health-resource-center

Whitman Walker Health  (WWH)

In the words of WWH "At Whitman-Walker, we see you. To us this means that regardless of how or why you came to us, we will welcome you with open arms and treat you with the dignity, respect and love that you deserve.

Since 1973, Whitman-Walker has been a place where people can just be themselves without fear of judgement or retribution. We have provided care with patience, kindness, humility and as much empathy as humanly possible.

Each day, we recommit to those principles and to you.
We stand by your side. We See You".

https://www.whitman-walker.org/

Iona's LGBT Support and Services

You are an older adult who identifies as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer (LGBTQ), Iona believes no one should have barriers to their positive aging. Iona;s LGBTQ-inclusive aging services provide spaces for you to find and build community and tap into our 40+ years of expertise navigating complex aging challenges. We help you think about your future and start planning now. How to find in-home care. How to afford services you need. How to prepare for a move.
Iona’s wide range of eldercare services are open to everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression. Through presentations, fitness classes, support groups, care management, and more, Iona helps older adults and their family caregivers thrive in the community.

https://www.iona.org/services/lgbtq-programming/

TransHealthCare MD

Trans Healthcare MD aims to unify the transgender community of Maryland for the purpose of extending accessible, competent and comprehensive affirming healthcare to everyone in the state and improving the lives of all trans, nonbinary and gender expansive Marylanders.

https://www.transhealthcaremd.org/what-we-do

MoCo Pride Center (in development)    

The center's goal is to provide advocacy and outreach activities that build, support, and advocate for a stronger and more diverse LGBTQ community in Montgomery County, MD.

https://www.mocopridecenter.org/

Seabury Resources on Aging - LGBT "Out and About" programs

Through transportation, housing, volunteer services, and more, Seabury Resources for Aging supports older adults and people with disabilities of all sexual and gender identities and expressions.
Out and About connects DC LGBTQ older adults through wellness programs, cultural events and conversations designed to address the concerns within the community. It is our mission to better understand the growing needs of LGBTQ older adults through listening, creating, and delivering programming with sensitivity, knowledge, and pride.

https://www.seaburyresources.org/lgbtq-programs

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 Caregiver Support Groups

Winter Growth's 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. 

Offering, 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 in Montgomery County

Montgomery Co: 18110 Prince Philip Drive, Olney, MD 20832

For more details call: 301-774-7501

Hearing Impaired: Dial 7-1-1 and ask for MD. Relay.
Need Language Interpreter: Phone 301-774-7501 for arrangements.

Caregiver Tele-Connection

The Caregiver Teleconnection is a free, bilingual, and confidential program that connects caregivers and family members to information and support through the telephone or “tele-learning”.
The Caregiver Teleconnection provides learning sessions on a variety of useful topics, hosted over the phone by professional facilitators and experts. Family caregivers have the opportunity to connect and share with others in their situation during the sessions.
Some of the topics included in the tele-learning sessions are:

There are two ways to register for a tele-learning session:

You can register via their website 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Register now.
You can call the Caregiver Teleconnection customer service line, Monday-Friday, 9 am-5 pm (CST) at 866-390-6491 or 210-871-7SOS (7767)

Participation in the Caregiver Tele-Connection helps prevent caregiver burnout, depression and anxiety, social isolation and other problems that threaten your health. The program can help you gain a greater sense of control and improve your quality of life.

Click here for full details and registration

Sessions are one hour in length
Caregiver Teleconnection On Demand
We realize that sometimes it’s difficult for caregivers to participate in our live sessions based on scheduling issues. We’ve made it easier for you to get the information you need by recording many of our live sessions. Click to access recorded sessions!

Save Money and Getting Around with Ease - Ride Public Transport

Wednesday, May 22, 10:00 am–2:00 pm
(lunch provided)

and

Thursday, May 23, 10:00 am–1:00 pm 

Learn how to Use Public Transportation: Sometimes it is Free!
Ride Smart Travel Training

Location: Asbury Methodist Village, 201 Russell Ave. Gaithersburg, Maryland 20877

In this free, two-day workshop (open to all Montgomery County residents over age 50) you will learn how to travel to destinations of your choice. You will receive a Senior SmarTrip card to make saving money on transportation easy. Registration required.

Please call 301-738-3252 or e-mail ConnectARide@
AccessJCA.org

Montgomery County Recreation is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Please contact a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist at 240-777-6870 or Email: Rec.Mainstream@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov to request accommodations.

Still Driving and Don't Want to Stop?

Thursday, May 16, 10:00 am and 2:00 pm 

How Well Do You and Your Car Work Together?

Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center
1000 Forest Glen Road in Silver Spring

Margaret Schweinhaut Senior Center and The Senior Connection will team up to offer CarFit to volunteer drivers in Montgomery County.

Virtually every driver who has a CarFit check learns something new about his or her car. The lesson might relate to adjusting seat belts for increased comfort and safety. Very often drivers leave understanding how to decrease dangerous “blind spots.” These are just two of the items on the 12-point checklist that trained technicians help drivers complete.

Please direct any questions to Shawn Brennan, 240-777-1350, or shawn.brennan@ montgomerycountymd.gov

To register for an available thirty-minute time slot, please go to the online sign-up sheet: https://www.signupgenius.com/ go/8050c4ea4af28a7f94-carfit

Low Vision Rehabilitation Open House - June 13

The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington Thursday, June 13, 11:30 am–2:00 pm

Low Vision Rehabilitation Open House
Learn more about Low Vision Rehabilitation services to help maintain independence and improve quality of life! The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington (POB) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to the improvement and preservation of sight by providing services, education, advocacy and innovation. One main program POB offers in the DC Metropolitan area is their Low Vision Learning Centers.

With locations in Bethesda, DC, and Alexandria, POB’s Low Vision Learning Centers offer personalized rehabilitation programming for persons with significant vision loss. Optometrists, who specialize in low vision, work with their patient one-on-one to create a plan to help achieve the activities of daily living they still want to be able to complete, even with vision loss. In addition, there is an opportunity to try and receive training with different low vision aids and devices.

RSVP: Sean Curry, scurry@youreyes.org

202-234-1010