F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S.
Caring for those with Cognitive Disabilities
JFS now offers caregiver counseling for spouses of people with dementia: Family Access to Memory Impairment and Loss Information, Engagements and Supports Program (F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S.)
Most people living with cognitive impairment or other progressive dementias rely on family members for their care. Yet many caregivers do not expect the demands of providing support around the clock. Over time, they often feel frustrated, exhausted, overwhelmed, and depressed as the disease gradually diminishes their loved one's cognitive and functional abilities.
As the caregiving responsibilities grow, stress can take a significant toll on the primary caregiver. In many cases, caregiver burnout leads families to move a loved one into a memory care facility sooner than necessary.
F.A.M.L.I.E.S. is a fully funded program that comes at no cost to you and your family through a partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America
What is the program?
To address the growing challenges faced by family caregivers, Jewish Family Services offers F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S. (Family Access to Memory Impairment and Loss Information, Engagement, and Supports). This evidence-based support program helps primary caregivers navigate the emotional and practical demands of caring for a loved one with dementia.
The program focuses on two important goals. First, it helps families delay or avoid nursing home placement when possible. Second, it reduces the severe depression and anxiety that caregiving responsibilities can often create.
What does the program consist of?
The program consists of seven sessions. Two initial individual sessions for the primary caregiver to address his or her specific needs. Since most caregivers need support from family and friends, four care team sessions are included. In addition, caregivers attend a follow-up session and have access to support by telephone on an as-needed basis. The person with dementia normally is not included in the sessions Participation by the primary caregiver in a weekly support group is also highly recommended.
What are the Outcomes?
The program has been researched extensively and has consistently resulted in the loved one remaining in the home up to a year longer and reducing the incidence of caregiver depression by fifty percent.*
Whether your loved one has been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, or in the mid to late stages of the disease and living at home, F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S. will improve your ability to cope with the symptoms of dementia and enable you to provide the loving care your spouse needs and deserves.
Jump to: • JFS Counseling • Senior Engagement • Senior Counseling
Contact: Chris Nufer
To find solutions or learn more about the JFS F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S. Program, contact Chris Nufer, MA, LPC at cnufer@jfsrichmond.org or call 804-282-5644, ext. 291.
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