Randolph libraries to provide training to area caregivers

Dean-Paul Stephens, The Courier-Tribune
·2 min read

Three Randolph County libraries are offering specialized training to caregivers of people experiencing dementia.

Asheboro Public Library
Asheboro Public Library

Called "Accepting the Challenge" the training serves two purposes. It not only teaches best practices for the best possible care. It also allows caregivers to socialize among themselves.

The result of a partnership between Randolph County Libraries and the Dementia Alliance of North Carolina, the training sessions are open to the public, particularly caregivers or those who might become caregivers.

"The 2-hour workshop is designed to help caregivers...offer a quality of life for people with dementia," reads information provided by Randolph Libraries. "Topics include background information on dementia and Alzheimer’s disease; physical approaches; communication skills; offering assistance; evaluating cognitive levels; 'Meaningful Days' (activities); and problem behavior."

For additional instruction, participating libraries will have two DVD sets of the lessons available for checkout.

Participating libraries include:

  • Archdale Public Library, 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 30

  • Liberty Public Library, 6 p.m. Tuesday, August 30

  • Asheboro Public Library, 10 a.m. Wednesday, August 31

"Also available from the library are 11 sensory activity kits for caregivers to use people experiencing dementia," reads information about the program. "The kits provide simple, hands-on experiences that keep the person’s mind active and offer the comfort of a repetitive action."

Some of the items in the kits include fidget balls and other trinkets. There are two sets of fender-based kits.

"Kits aimed primarily for women include a companion doll and a lacing activity card, while those aimed for men include a busy-work board and 'Plumber Pals' pipes," according to the library.

"Each bundle also includes three books for caregivers: Put Your Mask on First, a book about self-care; Caregiving 101: Activities for the Family Caregiver; and Caregiving 101: Activity Fun Book. The kits will be available at each library, on the Mobile Library and through the Extension Services Department."

There is no registration for those who wish to participate.

This article originally appeared on The Courier-Tribune: Randolph county libraries partner to provide caregiver training