WATCH: Insights from PCA’s caregiver workshop on brain and body health
Recently highlighted on 6abc’s Art of Aging segment, Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) hosted the first of three free caregiver workshops planned for this fall at its headquarters. About 70 participants attended the event, which was designed to support unpaid caregivers and promote their well-being alongside that of their care recipients.
Cheryl Clark-Woods, director of PCA’s Caregiver Support Program, highlighted the workshop’s dual focus on wellness and connection. Attendees participated in a luncheon that facilitated networking among caregivers and engaged in a wellness activity aimed at reducing stress.
The workshop featured guest speakers from ARTZ Philadelphia, Penn State Extension, and the Alzheimer’s Association, who shared tools and strategies to improve brain and body health. John Byrnes, a Penn State Extension educator and Alzheimer’s Association volunteer, emphasized the importance of self-care for caregivers, saying his goal was to energize attendees and make them feel valued.
Attendees also heard from Mary Le Gierse, a caregiver for her father who has dementia. She shared how PCA’s Caregiver Support Program has eased the financial strain of caregiving by helping cover the cost of essential supplies.
The Caregiver Support Program offers financial reimbursements, education, training, and access to community resources for unpaid caregivers, most of whom care for loved ones over the age of 60. Cheryl Clark-Woods stressed the importance of seeking assistance early, encouraging caregivers to visit PCACares.org or call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 for support.
WATCH (via 6abc): PCA offers free community workshops to support caregivers
