Annual Luncheon Recognizes the Vital Role of Caregivers

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County’s Office for the Aging (OFA) aims to help older residents live independently for as long as possible through various services and programs. However, the agency also supports those who care for seniors who may need extra help.

One of those recognitions is the OFA’s annual Caregiver Luncheon which features a program speaker and provides attendees with gift bags and door prizes.

“Caregivers are a vital part of the senior care system,” said Oswego County Office for the Aging Director Sara Sunday. “They play such an essential role in ensuring the well-being of some of our most vulnerable residents but many struggle to show themselves the same grace and care.

“With November as National Family Caregiver’s Month, this is the perfect time to celebrate them and thank them for all they do for their loved ones,” she added.

This year’s luncheon was hosted by Travis Floral in Hannibal, N.Y. and catered by Brandon’s Pub & Grill out of Fair Haven, N.Y. The featured speaker was Madelyn Dievendorf from the Alzheimer’s Association and gift bags included a door alarm, a digital clock calendar, a pill dispenser and weighted, heat-able plush Warmies to soothe sore muscles.

“In addition to Brenda Wilson of Travis Floral and Brandon Lagoe of Brandon’s Pub & Grill, we want to thank Stone Creek Golf Club of Oswego and National Grid,” said Elizabeth Weimer, senior aging services specialist, Oswego County OFA. “Their support helped make this event possible.”

National Family Caregiver’s Month was first recognized in 1997 as a way to support caregivers who struggle with the effect caregiving can have on their own physical, mental and financial well-being.

“While caregiving can be fulfilling, it’s not without its challenges,” Weimer said. “Often, it’s the unexpectedness of becoming a caregiver, such as when a loved one suddenly has a medical emergency, accident or illness.”

Every year, 4.1 million people across the state become unpaid caregivers for their loved ones in one form or another – whether it’s driving their loved ones to doctor appointments, providing them with meals or keeping an overnight vigil.

“I urge residents to take this opportunity to recognize these angels who walk among us,” Sunday said. “Perhaps offer them a respite, a sympathetic ear or a home-cooked meal, anything to help them feel seen, heard and cared for themselves.”

For more information about caregiver resources, visit Oswego County OFA online or call 315-349-3484.

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