The Ionia County Commission on Aging offers a variety of support for Caregivers including support groups, one-on-one educational sessions, and respite. Caseworkers are also available to provide assistance in locating resources, or finding appropriate agencies to respond to the care-giving needs of those who are elderly or those caring for an elder person.
Alzheimer’s Association Educational Programs
Alzheimer’s Association Educational Programs are held at various times throughout the year. These trainings and workshops are intended to provide caregivers with the necessary information and resources they need. Past trainings have included, Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers – Early Stage/Middle Stage/Late Stage, The Savvy Caregiver, Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research, and more! For a schedule of upcoming events, call (616) 330-4432.
Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month from 12:30-1:30 pm at the Ionia County Commission on Aging Senior Center in Ionia. For more information, call (616) 330-4432.
Blue Skies Adult Day Program
For more information, call (616) 527-5365
Caregiver Toolkit
Caregiver Toolkit is a resource packet compiled by the COA filled with information on available resources in Ionia County to help meet the needs of Caregivers. To receive the toolkit, or for more information regarding the resources, contact a Caseworker today!
Caseworkers
Brenda Snow (616) 330-4428
Deb Steele (616) 527-8224
Chris Wolcott (616) 330-4430
Dementia Support Program
Dementia Support Program is for Caregivers of individuals with dementia who are looking for more support. A trained Alzheimer’s Association Care Counselor is available to help navigate the challenges and obstacles Caregivers face, as well as provide much needed emotional support and self-care for the Caregiver. This program is funded through the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan and is referral-based. Caregiver, or care recipient, must be at least 60 years of age.
For more information, contact a COA Caseworker:
Brenda Snow (616) 330-4428
Deb Steele (616) 527-8224
Chris Wolcott (616) 330-4430
Grandparents Parenting
Grandparents Parenting is held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30 -7:00pm at The Right Door located at 375 Apple Tree Dr. in Ionia. This support group is designed to assist grandparents who find themselves raising their grandchildren.
For more information, contact Rona Shane at Community Mental Health (616) 527-1790.
Parkinson’s Support Group
Parkinson’s Support Group meets monthly on the third Thursday of each month at the Ionia County Commission on Aging Senior Center in Ionia from 1:30-3:30pm.
For more information, call the front desk at (616) 527-5365.
Respite Certificates
Respite Certificates are available to give caregivers a break from caring for an individual who cannot be left alone. A limited number of respite certificates are available for caregivers age 60 and older or who provide unpaid care to someone age 60 or older. Certificates are used as payment at participating agencies for respite (in-home, overnight or adult day services) and are distributed based on need and funding availability. Cost sharing (co-payment) may be required and certificates must be redeemed within 21 days of issue.
For more information, call (616) 527-8228.
The Right Door’s “Making Memories” Day Camp
The Right Door’s “Making Memories” Day Camp provides a weekly opportunity for caretakers of adults experiencing Alzheimer’s Disease or relates Dementias to enjoy a day of respite while their loved one is engaged in stimulating and safe activities. The day camp is held every Tuesday from 10:30am – 3:30pm at a local church with a free hot lunch provided by the ICCOA.
For more information, call (616) 527-5365