Caring for our family members is the most important job there is. As we age, our needs change, and sometimes the kind of help or care we provide to our loved ones changes also.

When people get married, they vow to be there for each other “in sickness and in health.” Many of us come to realize the full meaning of those words when our spouse requires more of our care because of age or illness.

There are definite rewards in caring for our spouse. The feeling of being useful, needed and engaged in a meaningful role that really makes a difference in the life of another affirms the significance of our part in their life.

However, no matter how much a person loves and cares about their spouse or elderly family member, caregiving presents many challenges. It can be both physically and emotionally draining at times.

We take care of our family members because we love them and we want the best for them. In that process though, many people neglect their own health and well-being, which in turn can affect the one they are caring for. As a caregiver, you need to take care of yourself too! Seek help from others, even though your loved one may object. A Caregiver Support Group meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:00pm at the Senior Resource Center on the lower level.

The Adult Day Respite Program is for persons with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorder. The purpose of our respite program is two-fold. First, to provide activities for persons with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders in a caring environment; and second, to provide respite and supportive services to caregivers.

Adult Day Respite

There are services in Sawyer County that can provide help in your home which would allow you to get away and feel comfortable that your loved one is cared for and safe. The Adult Day Respite at the Hayward Senior Resource Center is a one-day a week program offering fun in a structured environment for your loved one during the day. It’s a social activity program which offers games, exercise, sing-a-longs, reminiscence, storytelling, current events, and other events especially designed for persons with dementia. Staff, along with volunteers, will provide individualized attention to participants in the program.The Adult Day Respite is offered on Wednesdays from 9am to 1pm. $15 per session. Participants may arrive and leave according to individual schedule demands within the 9am to 1pm timeframe. Call (715) 634-3000 and ask to speak to Jodi Olney if you have questions.

Contact the Elder Benefits Specialist at the Sawyer County ADRC (Aging and Disability Resource Center) to inquire about other programs and services in Sawyer County that might be of help to you. The phone number is (866) 663-3607 and they are open Monday – Friday from 8am to 4pm.

Caregivers Support Group

The Caregiver Support Group meets the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 1:00pm at the Senior Resource Center on the lower level. Call (715) 634-3000 and ask to speak to Jodi Olney if you have questions.