bergencountycaregiver

Caring for the Caregiver: Practical ways of helping you care for a person with memory loss and confusion-helping you help others. Tips for caregivers.

Caring for a person with memory loss and confusion can be stressful and exhausting. These tips can help you find the support you need.

1. Ask for Help:

*Ask a friend to fix dinner or a relative to help out for an hour each week.

*Make a list of ways others can help. When a friend asks, “What can I do?” have them choose from a list.

*Don’t wait for a crisis. Ask for and accept help on a regular basis.

*Even if asking is hard, find at least one resource you can use right away.

2. Express your feelings:

*Recognize that feelings of frustration, sadness, anger and depression are normal under the circumstances.

*Talk about your feelings with a friend, relative, counselor or caregiver support group.

3. Take care of your health:

*Make sure you are eating a healthy diet, getting regular physical activity and getting plenty of rest.

*Learn and use stress reduction techniques.

*Don’t put off your own medical care. Talk with your doctor about getting flu shots and other preventive care.

4. Learn about the disease:

*Find out about the different forms and stages of dementia so that you are not taken by surprise when new behaviors occur.

*If you can, provide information to family and friends so they will know how to best to support you.

5. Avoid Isolation:

*Pursue a hobby or take a class. Join a reading or discussion group.

*Become active in a community organization.

6. Talk with professionals:

*Contact a social worker or your local social services agency to help you find out about caregiving resources.

*Talk with an attorney or legal aid service about legal issues. Many areas have free or low-cost legal aid available.

*Talk with an accountant about finances.

*Find a counselor or therapist to help you deal with your feelings.

7. Look for signs of burnout:

*Not taking care of your own health, feeling lonely, crying or losing your temper more than usual are all signs that you may need some help.

*Take an honest look at your use of sedatives and alcohol. Have a doctor or counselor help you evaluate your use.

*Find someone to talk to if you feel discouraged, frustrated, trapped or over-burdened.

*Seek professional help if you are depressed or thinking about suicide.

8. Give yourself a treat:

*Buy yourself a present such as a favorite magazine or new clothes.

*Watch a sunset.

*Put your feet up and listen to a symphony or a ball game on the radio.

*Order dinner from your favorite restaurant and have it delivered.

*Buy yourself flowers.

9. Take time for yourself:

*Consider using respite care, homecare or adult day care.

*Schedule regular time for yourself. Plan to spend an hour each day or an afternoon once a week away from caregiving.

*Consider taking a vacation.

*If time or money is a concern, be creative! Ask for help from friends or relatives and use community services. You are worth it!

*Remember, you will be better able to care for another if you take time for yourself.

10. Investigate local services:

*Find out if meals are delivered to seniors or home-bound people in your area.

*Contact your local senior center to help you find resources.

*Find out about assisted living facilities. Even if you do not want to use one now, you may need to in the future.

Disclaimer: this information was taken directly from the Journeyworks Publishing pamphlet written by Mardi Richmond. The information is helpful to all caregiver and please look at Journeyworks other pamphlets. They are a huge source of information and advice on helping caregivers. These pamphlets are available in most  Nursing facilities.

Caregiving: How to get the Whole Family Involved: Tips to make your job easier when caring for an older, ill or disabled adult.

Are you a relative or friend of an older, ill or disabled person? Is one family member responsible for providing or arranging most or all of the care? Do you want other family members and friends to become more involved? These tips can help.

Start with a family meeting:

*Call a family meeting to discuss caregiving needs and ways for each person to help.

*Include everyone who is able to contribute.

*Consider holding the meeting in a neutral location with few distractions. Or if your family is spread out geographically, the meeting can be held by email, in a private web chat room or through telephone conferencing.

*Make up an agenda ahead of time so that everyone can contribute.

How will decisions be made?

*If the person being cared for is able, he or she should have a say in how care needs are met.

*The person who has the primary responsibility whether through providing care or arranging care by professionals-should also have a say.

*Other family members’ views should be heard and respected too.

*For health and legal decisions, the person being cared for can use Durable Power of Attorney documents to designate someone to make decisions if he or she cannot.

If you disagree:

It is common for people to disagree about the best way to approach a caregiving situation:

*Make sure each person’s concerns are heard.

*Try to reach a comprise.

*Avoid turning the disagreement into a feud.

*If you cannot agree, bring in an outside person-a counselor, care manager or clergy member, for example-to act as a mediator.

Support the primary caregiver:

*Try to respect the person who is taking primary responsibility. He or she is doing a difficult job.

*If you see that a problem exists, offer solutions and support, not criticism.

Don’t be afraid to take charge:

*When there are several people involved, organizing tasks is very important.

*Make a list of what needs to be done. Ask people to volunteer for tasks.

*Consider having each person take responsibility for a different area of caregiving. For example, one person can take the person to medical appointments and get prescriptions filled. Another person can pay bills and research financial options.

What can you do if you don’t feel others are carrying their weight?

*Find out why. Sometimes a friend or family member would like to help but isn’t sure how.

*Sometimes a sibling may be respecting the role of the primary caregiver by not interfering. He or she may not get involved unless asked directly.

*If a person is not participating because he or she does not agree with the course of care, talking through the issues may help.

Long distance support: How to help the primary caregiver when you can’t be there.

What can you do if you live in another city or state?

*Ask how you can help. Offer ideas if the primary caregiver isn’t sure.

*Offer emotional support. Call and check in regularly. Be someone the caregiver can confide in.

*Offer financial support. Contribute to the household expenses or pay for respite care.

*Make phone visits. Spend time on the phone visiting with the person being care for.

*Give breaks. Take over caregiving duties for a day or weekend each month or a week every few months. This provides breaks for the primary caregiver.

*Do those tasks that can be done at a distance. Research the disease or condition or make phone calls to find out about support services.

*Thank the primary caregiver. Show your appreciation regularly.

Involving the whole family in caring for and supporting an older family member can make it easier on everyone. Look inside for ideas on how you can include others in caregiving.

To find information about support groups and other services in your area, consult your local phone book. You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit its website at http://www.eldercare.gov.

*Disclaimer: this information was taken off a pamphlet from Journeyworks Publishing and written by Mardi Richmond. Please look over this pamphlet for the information needed. It is tough to do it all on your own. This pamphlet is a wonderful resource of knowledge.

NJ Workability Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: What is Workability (NJW)?

Answer: NJ Workability is a state and federally funded program that provides Medicaid health benefits, at a higher income eligibility level than ever before, to people with disabilities who are working.

Question: Who is eligible for NJ Workability?

Answer: A person must be between the ages of 16 and 64, employed full or part time and have a permanent physical or mental disability.

Question: Will I qualify if I am self-employed?

Answer: Yes, self-employment individuals with disabilities are also covered; you just need to provide documentation of self-employment and income.

Question: What does NJ Workability cover?

Answer: NJ Workability covers all the medical and healthcare services available through Medicaid. These may include, but are not limited to, durable medical equipment, outpatient counseling, medical transportation, dental and vision care, personal care services, pharmaceutical and other medical services.

Question: How much can you earn and still be covered by NJ Workability?

Answer: You can earn as much as $58,000 (gross) annually and still be fully eligible for Medicaid coverage through NJ Workability.

Question: Do you have to be receiving benefits, such as Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSD)?

Answer: No, as long as you are working and have a permanent disability (which can be determined by the County Board of Social Services &  the Division of Medical Assistance & Health Services Disability Review Team).

Question: What happens if the Social Security Administration (SSA) determined I am not disabled?

Answer: Your application can be reviewed to see if that decision can be appealed or if you would be subject to the one year re-application.

Question: Does working mean I am automatically considered not to be disabled?

Answer: No, for this program your disability status is evaluated without consideration of your work activity. You are assessed as an individual who is working despite a permanent disability.

Question: If my spouse is not disabled, would their income be counted for my eligibility?

Answer: Yes, income of an ineligible spouse is evaluated by the process of ‘deeming’ a portion of the income to the spouse applying for eligibility. It is counted as unearned income.

Question: Where do I apply?

Answer: If you are interested in applying, call toll free 1-888-285-3036, for initial screening and information. Applications are taken and eligibility determination is made at your County Board of Social Services (CBSS).

Question: How do I find out what services are covered? How do I find doctors/providers that participation?

Answer: Contact the Medical Assistance Customer Center (MACC) to find out services/doctors/providers. To locate the MACC in your area call, 1-800-256-1561. If you are enrolled in a Medicaid managed care program, you would contact that HMO.

Question: What happens when I’m not working?

Answer: This needs to be reported to your CBSS to determine if your status permits continuation of benefits or if your eligibility needs to be suspended to avoid possible repayment of incorrectly paid benefits.

Question: Can I use my employer health insurance?

Answer: Yes, benefits will be coordinated with Medicaid being the final or last payer.

Question: Will the NJW benefits cover my entire family?

Answer: No, only the eligible individual or eligible couple.

Question:  Can someone on Workability choose a Medicaid HMO or must they be on fee-for-service?

Answer: NJ Workability clients may receive fee-for-service or enroll in one of the Medicaid HMO’s, In fact, we have been encouraging Workability clients to use HMO services to assure greater access to care. Remember, NJ Workability is just another route to Medicaid eligibility-it is not a special program.

Question: Is there a rule regarding eligibility for felons or people who have been convicted of a crime?

Answer: Prisoners must no longer be under the jurisdiction of the correctional facility and meet all other eligibility requirements of assistance programs. Many correctional institutions already work with County Boards of Social Service for transitional screening and/or applications for programs that can be effective upon release.

Question: What is the application process for felons/people with criminal records?

Answer: The application process would include a disability determination that the County Board of Social Services (CBSS) would request through the state using records and forms from the correctional facility. Additionally, if the facility has submitted an application through the Social Security Administration (SSA) then the County/State cannot process a concurrent disability determination. If there has been a SSA disability denial, the State is bound to honor that decision for one year.

Question: Is Unemployment Insurance considered earned or unearned income?

Answer: Unemployment insurance benefits are considered unearned income.

Question: If I am 18 years of age, working part time and living with parents or family, is my family’s income considered?

Answered: Eligibility will be determined by the County of Board Social Services. A parent’s income would be deemed to the applicant for those under age 18. The deemed amount is treated as countable unearned income.

Question How does Workability apply to a seasonal employee?

Answer: When the employee is not working. he/she is ineligible for any month where there is no employment (unless receiving paid sick leave, temporary disability payments or workers’ compensation). If the person does not report stopping work as required and continues to receive benefits during that period, that individual will have incorrectly received benefits which will be subject to recovery.

Question: If an SSI beneficiary works and exhausts all SSI work deductions (ending their cash benefits), do they have to accept and then exceed 1619B benefits before going on the Workability program?

Answer: If a person is still actively receiving SSI, we recommend they utilize the SSI 1619B program. If an applicant’s SSI eligibility is already terminated, we do not require them to return to SSA; however, we do ask for their letter of termination because of no longer being medically disabled). We accept the SSA disability determination rather than completing another determination through the DMAHS Disability Review Team. If SSA says you are no longer disabled, we have to abide by that decision for one year before the person can re-apply.

If you would like additional information please call: 1-888-285-3036

http://www.njworkability.nj.gov

Disclaimer: This information is taken directly from the DHS Office of Publications pamphlet for NJ Workability Frequently asked Questions (FAQs). I have never used the service so I have no opinion on the program either yes or no to how it works. Please call or email them at the above number and get more information.

. Pre-diabetes and Diabetes: Cornerstones4Care

What is the difference between pre-diabetes and diabetes?

The difference between pre-diabetes and diabetes is how high the blood sugar level are. Pre-diabetes is when your blood sugar (or glucose) levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as type 2 diabetes. Look at the table  to see the levels. Did you know that about 79 million adults age 20 and older have pre-diabetes.

What’s going on in your body?

A condition called insulin resistance increases the risk of getting both pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. Insulin is a hormone that is made by the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach. Insulin helps sugar from food move from your blood into your body cells. Your  cells need sugar for energy. Sugar from food can be from sweet foods and drinks, like candy, cakes, cookies, pies and soda or from carbohydrates like starches, fruit, and milk that turn into sugar.

When you have insulin resistance, your body produce insulin but does not use it effectively.  So sugar builds up in the blood which can lead to pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes. Most people with insulin resistance aren’t aware that they have it for many years, until it turns into type 2 diabetes. But the good news is that if people find out early that they have insulin resistance, they may be able to delay progression to type 2 diabetes.

Who is at risk?

Here are some of the factors for pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Factors that can be managed:

*Being overweight

*Having high blood pressure

*Having low HDL cholesterol and high triglycerides (blood fats)

Factors that cannot be changed:

*Being age 45 age or older

*Having a family history of diabetes

*Having a history of gestational diabetes or of giving birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds.

*Belonging to an ethnic group at high risk for diabetes such as Native American, African-American, Hispanic or Asian.

It is important to discuss your risk factors with your doctor. If you think you may be at risk for pre-diabetes, see your doctor to be tested.

How is pre-diabetes diagnosed?

You may have pre-diabetes without having any symptoms. Pre-diabetes us found with one of the following test:

*Fasting plasma glucose (FRG) test-Measures blood sugar when you haven’t eaten anything for at least 8 hours.

*Glucose tolerance test (GTT)-Measures blood sugar after you haven’t eaten anything for at least 8 hours and 2 hours after you drink a sugary drink provided by a doctor or laboratory.

*A1C-Measures your average estimated blood sugar over the past 3 months.

Your doctor will look for these values to diagnose pre-diabetes and diabetes.

FPG

Pre-diabetes 100-125 mg/dl

Diabetes 126 mg/dl or higher

GTT

Pre-diabetes 140-199 mg dl

Diabetes 200 mg/dl or higher

A1C

Pre-diabetes 5.7%-6.4%

Diabetes 6.5% or higher

How can you lower your risk of pre-diabetes?

There are no medicines approved by the FDA to treat pre-diabetes. If you have pre-diabetes, your blood sugar should be checked for type 2 diabetes yearly. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), if your blood sugar levels are normal, you should have them checked every 3 years or more often if your doctor recommends it. Pre-diabetes does not automatically turn into type 2 diabetes. You can take steps to lower your risk.

The American Diabetes Association says that you can lower your risk for type 2 diabetes by:

*Losing just 7% of your body weight (or 15 pounds if you weigh 200 pounds).

*Doing moderate physical activity (such as brisk walking) for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.

For more information, visit Cornerstone4Care.com

*Disclaimer: All of this information is taken directly from the Cornerstone4Care.com pamphlet. I have not used any of their services so I have no opinion either yes or no to any of their programs. Please call the above numbers or email them for more information.

Long Distance Caregiving: Caring for an older or disabled adult-tips to make your job easier.

If you live in another town or state from a loved one who needs care, you will face very specific challenges. How will you know that the person is getting what he or she needs? The tips below can help.

Make regularly scheduled visits:

*Depending on the level of independence, these visits to assess the person’s needs.

*You and other relatives or friends may be able to take turns visiting so that the person is checked on regularly.

*If you cannot visit often, consider having someone who lives near the person take responsibility for care.

When you visit..

*Assess the person’s ability to care for him or herself. Check in about:

-Meals and self care

-Shopping, errands and household chores

-Medications and doctor’s appointment

-Money management and paying bills

-Driving and transportation

-Social activities

-Mental or emotional health

Arrange for help when needed:

*Ask the person what kind of care he or she needs or will accept. Be respectful of the person’s lifestyle and independence.

*As health care providers, neighbors and friends what type of care they think the person needs too. They are closer and may see things that you won’t notice during short visits.

*Help the person arrange care. The person may not be able to do it alone.

Plan regular check-in times:

*Regular phone calls can be a good way to check in . If the person has a hearing problem (and may not hear the phone ring), plan a specific time to call so he or she will know to answer. Or arrange for special phone equipment for the hearing impaired.

*When you talk, listen for any changes in the way he or she speaks or engages with you.

*For some people, email or letters are also good ways to check in.

Enlist the support of local friends:

*Consider asking a friend, relative or neighbor to look in on the person daily or weekly.

*Find people who live near your relative-friends, neighbors or local relatives-that can be called in an emergency. Knowing that someone is nearby can help ease your concern.

*Consider paying the friend or relative for his or her time.

Get local information:

*Order a local phone book. Get the names and numbers of local services. Even if you do not need to use them now, you might later on.

*Keep a notebook with the names and phone number of doctors, the landlord, the power company and others that provide company and others that provide services for your loved one.

*Photo copy social security, Medicare and insurance cards and Durable Power of Attorney documents. Then you will have the information ready if needed.

Connect with community resources:

*Meet with doctors and other care providers when you visit. Ask them to report any changes in your loved one’s health.

*Contact local social services to see if you loved one is eligible for assistance.

*Contact organization, clubs and religious communities that your loved one participates in. Find out if they have support systems you can utilize.

*Contact local volunteer programs. See if they can provide a volunteer to visit regularly.

*Consider registering your relative for a personal medical emergency alert system, such as an emergency alert system, such as an emergency button worn around the neck or on the wrist.

Help the person accept care:

*Explain that you want to help them stay healthier, more comfortable or independent.

*Acknowledge and address concerns over accepting care.

*Treat the person with respect. Your loved one  is ultimately in charge of care unless he or she is unable to make decisions.

Consider a care manager:

Care managers, also called case managers, are social  workers or nurses who help arrange care for older or disabled people. Care managers can be hired privately. Or if your loved one has low or moderate income, local county social services may provide a case manager or social worker to help arrange services.

When looking for a private care manager, ask:

*What services do you offer?

*What are your professional credentials? Are you licensed?

*How long have you been providing these services?

*What are your fees? (This service may not be covered by insurance)

*Can you provide references?

*Are you available for emergencies?

Caring for a loved one when you live in another town or state can be challenging. Inside you will find tips that may help make your task a little easier.

To find information about social and support services for your loved one, consult the local phone book. You can also call the Eldercare Locater at 1-800-677-1116 or visit its website at http://www.eldercare.gov on the internet.

*Written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

*Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Journeyworks Publishing pamphlet. I find these pamphlets very informative and help caregivers out. Please look over the blog for other Journeyworks Publication pamphlets.

A Checklist for New Caregivers: Tips to make your job easier-Caring for an older adult, ill or Disabled adult.

Caring for an older, ill or disabled person can be challenging-especially if you are new to the task. There are steps you can take to make the job easier.

Learn about the disease, condition or illness:

*Talk to a health care provider. Ask:

Is this a long or short term situation?

What are the person’s specific care needs?

How will those needs change over time?

*Ask about special skills. For example, ask how to move someone with limited mobility or how to give medications.

*Get more information from books, pamphlets or the Internet.

Explore your options:

*Write down specific needs, such as meals, bathing, household chores, physical therapy and doctor’s appointments.

*Discuss ways to meet those needs with the person being cared for, relatives, friends and the person’s health care provider.

*Find out if you can take time off from work under the Family Medical Leave Act.

Research community Resources:

*Talk with hospital staff about services in your area. Contact your county health department about public resources.

*Call your local Area Agency on Aging and contact organizations specific to the disease, such as the Alzheimer’s Association.

*Explore options such as adult day care, meal delivery, transportation services, respite services and in-home support services.

*Consider hiring a care manager. This is a social worker or nurse who specializes in arranging care.

*Keep the information you collect in a notebook or on the computer. Even if you don’t use it now, you may later on.

Plan for immediate care:

*Ask the person being cared for about his or her wishes around immediate care.

*Adapt the living environment for special needs, such as a walker, wheelchair or bedside commode.

*Consider how you will track the person’s health and care needs. Keep a log or journal of eating patterns, medications and physical symptoms.

*If other family members are providing support, write down who will be in charge of what task.

Enlist the help of others:

*Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. Don’t try to do it all.

*Make a list of people who can help.

*List the tasks that others can so, such as running errands or bringing dinner.

*Ask a friend, family member or neighbor to call people or arrange for help.

Organize important information:

*Write down:

-Doctor’s names, phone numbers and addresses

-Medical name of the illness

-Medical insurance information

-Prescription numbers, names and doses

*Organize financial information such as household bills, loans and debts, bank accounts and insurance policies.

*Photocopy important information such as the social security, driver’s license and insurance cars of the person being cared for.

Plan for the future:

*Get information about the long-term prognosis. Knowing what will happen in the future will help you plan for care.

*Access finances. Talk to a financial advisor familiar with care issues.

*Talk to a lawyer or legal aid representative about a Durable Power of Attorney for healthcare and finances.

Get Support:

*Talk to a friend, family member or counselor about your feelings.

*Join a support group.

*Do you feel overwhelmed? If so, talk to your doctor, therapist or another health professional right away.

Take care of yourself too:

*Talk to your friends and family members. Enlist their support.

*Find out if your employer has an Employee Assistance Program that provides support for caregivers.

*Let go of less important commitments. No one can do it all!

*Keep doing at least one activity or hobby that brings you pleasure.

*Take regular breaks from caregiving.

*Make sure you are meeting your own care needs: eating healthy, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and spending time with family and friends.

New caregivers face many challenges-from understanding the illness to providing immediate care or planning for the future. This checklist provides an overview of common caregiving issues. For more information, visit http://www.aarp.org or to find support groups and services in your area, consult your local phone book. You can also call the Eldercare Locater at 1-800-677-1116 or visit http://www.eldercare.gov on the Internet.

Written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

*Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Journeyworks Pamphlet on ‘A Check list for New Caregivers’ and offers helpful advice for new caregivers. I have tried to include many of their pamphlets as I had found them helpful in my caregiving role and want to share them will all of my readers.

Geriatric Consultation Service Vantage Health System: Helping you provide the best care for your loved one.

Are you the 1 in 4 who has a relative who is growing older and showing signs of change? You are not alone. When an elderly family member exhibits changes that are uncharacteristic and affect their ability to maintain their independence and/or care for themselves, concern and confusion result. There are many unanswered questions. Vantage’s Geriatric Consultation Service is available to explore those questions and help you find the answers.

How we can help you:

Vantage Health System has a 30 year reputation for excellence in geriatric services. Building on that history, our experienced geriatric staff will share their expertise to advise you about the changes which occur during this stage of life and in making the best choices that help your loved one and your particular family situation.

You can expect us to:

*Evaluate your loved one’s needs

*Assess the changes.

*Explore with you the options for care.

*Assist in the referral and coordination of services.

*Provide counseling if necessary, to assist in understanding the changes which are occurring within the family and affect family members of every age.

Contact:

Nancy Bortinger, MSW< LCSW< C-ASWCM

Director of Geriatric Services

2 Park Avenue

Dumont, NJ  07628

Phone: (201) 385-4400 x3086

Fax: (201) 384-7067

nbortinger@vantagenj.org

Fee:

Hourly fee based service

Location:

Consultation can take place at our Dumont Office or at a more convenient location of family choice.

Our mission:

To provide comprehensive assessment, education and planning for elders and/or their families and to provide geriatric stage of life education to the community at large.

*Bergen County has the largest number of person’s age 60+ in the State New Jersey. Consequently, County leadership has recognized that a large group of baby boomer are finding themselves for the first time needing information to meet the care needs of their parents and prospectively, themselves.

*For National Senior Citizen Month in May 2006, County Executive Dennis Mc Nerney called for a focus on “quality life issues necessary for maintaining health and well being as one ages” and used the equation:

Independence+Dignity+Choice=Healthy Aging

Vantage Health System: Quality Care for life’s challenges

In operation since 1957, Vantage Health System Inc., is a network of private, non-for-profit, community based services, programs and facilities. Our geriatric adult care program began in 1978 and has enjoyed a 30 year reputation of excellence in geriatric services. Vantage is committed to providing high quality comprehensive healthcare services while empowering individuals and families to achieve wellness.

Get in Touch:

For information or to schedule an appointment call (201) 385-4400 x3086.

Vantage Health System

Two Dumont Avenue

Dumont, NJ

http://www.wantagenj.org

*Disclaimer: This information is taken directly off the Vantage Health System pamphlet. I have never used this service before so I have no opinion on it either yes or no to how the program works. Please call or email the above numbers to get more information from the company.

Family Support Organization of Bergen County For Families by Families

Family Support Organization of Bergen County: We are here for YOU!

Support, Education and Advocacy of Families of Children with Emotional and/or Behavioral Challenges.

Who We Are:

Family Support Organization of Bergen County (FSOBC) is a family-run, county-based not for profit 501(c) (3) incorporated in 2001.

FSOBC is an organization “For Families by Families”. Our founding Board of Trustees, all of whom are parents of children with emotional and/or behavioral challenges, responded to the need for a family-driven organization. In May 2002, we opened our doors with the goal of spearheading a family friendly environment for families to come together for mutual support, education and sharing.

We offer the unique perspective gained from experiences with various systems and providers. As part of the family movement, we aim to maximize the potential of all involved in providing services to children and families. Our philosophy is the recognitions of worth, knowledge and dignity of all families and caregivers.

FSOBC is a component of the NJ Division of the Children’s System of Care (CSOC) within the NJ Department of Children and Families. We provide direct family-to-family peer support to families enrolled in the Care Management Organization. FSOBC also provides education, advocacy and other supports to family members of children with emotional and/or behavioral challenges. In addition to families experiencing emotional/behavioral challenges, we support families with developmental/intellectual delays and substance abuse challenges.

We welcome you to become an active participant in the FSOBC. Please feel free to come by or visit http://www.fsobergen.org.

What We Do:

Education/Advocacy: Provide forums, workshops, guest speakers and other special events that inform and empower families about their role in the parent/professional partnership.

Support Groups: Host weekly support groups for families and caregivers. On-site adult supervision provided to children who accompany caregivers/parents to meetings.

Warm Line: Telephone support to family members and caregivers. We listen and offer support, information and referrals.

Peer to Peer Support: Employs trained Family Support Partners, experienced in raising children who have complex needs. Family Support Partners provide one to one support to families enrolled with the Care Management Organization.

Youth Partnership: Works directly with youth ages 14-21 who have been involved with the mental health, juvenile justice, or child welfare system. Youth Partnership provides a forum to share their experiences. Members are committed to the development of leadership skills and making a difference through community service.

Community Development: Develops and maintains its presence with our local legislators, schools and businesses to gain their support and provide information. We partner with local planning bodies such as the Children’s Interagency Coordinating Council (CIACC). The Human Services Advisory Council (HSAC) and the Youth Service Commission (YSC).

All programs are at no cost to participants. No CSA referral is necessary.

Our System Partners:

PerformCare

Contracted Systems Administer (CSA) is the single point of entry to the New Jersey Children’s System of Care (CSOC) within the New Jersey Department of Children and Families (NJDCF). For access to our system Partners listed below, you must call the CSA first at (877) 652-7624.

CarePlus New Jersey (Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies)

Children’s Mobile response and Stabilization Services (CMRSS) provides 24/7 on-site/in-home crisis response to youth ages 5-18 who are experiencing emotional or behavioral crisis. The services are designated to defuse an immediate crisis, keep children and their families safe and maintain children in their current living situations.

Bergen’s Promise (Healthy Families, Safe at Home)

Bergen’s Promise, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization is the Care Management Organization (CMO) in Bergen County. The CMO manages the care of children and families enrolled through the NJ Children’s System of Care. Bergen’s Promise provides comprehensive service planning for children and their families by helping them create, develop and run Child and Family Teams. The team creates an Individual Service Plan (ISP) for each child. Wraparound services and supports are selected to enhance the stability of the child and family. Access to CMO services is through the CSA PerformCare. Feel free to contact FSOBC if you have questions.

Our Mission:

*To provide support, education and advocacy to families and caregivers of children with mental health, emotional and/or behavioral needs.

*To ensure that the highest quality child-friendly family-centered approaches to service delivery are created and maintained throughout Bergen County.

*To provide a forum in which families, caregivers, providers and other concerned individuals collaborate to identify needs, service barriers, resources and appropriate, effective, timely ways to intervene and to provide the resources necessary to support strong community based programs.

For questions or access to the NJSOC, call PerformCare, the 24-hour toll-free access line: 877-652-7624.

Finding us:

0-108 29th Street

Fairlawn, NJ  07410

Phone: (201) 796-6209

Fax: (201) 796-1151

Website: http://www.FSOBergen.org

Email: info@FSOBergen.org

By Car: Route 17 to Route 4 West (Broadway) into Fairlawn. Take the Plaza Road U-turn onto Route 4 (Broadway) Eastbound for 4 blocks to 29th Street. Turn right at 29th Street. FSOBC is the first building on the right.

By Bus: NJ Transit Routes 144, 164, 171 & 770 and NJ Express stop 30th Street & Broadway

By Train: The NJ Transit Bergen Line, Broadway Fairlawn Stop is 6 blocks west of FSOBC.

Disclaimer: This information is taken directly from the Family Support Organization of Bergen County pamphlet. I have never used the service before so I have no opinion of it either yes or no to how the program works. Please call or email the service for more information.

Oasis Senior Advisors: Lifestyle options for Senior Living-A free service for families

BergenCounty.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com

(201) 674-9940

What is Oasis Senior Advisors?

Oasis Senior Advisors is a FREE service to families which helps them find senior living options. Our Senior Living Advisors have extensive knowledge of the local senior care industry. We can quickly identify and match a senior to those communities which will best meet their specific needs. Our guidance will provide the information you need to make an educated and informed decision. All at no cost to you.

Who qualifies for this service?

Anyone who is in need of assisted senior living, care or housing options now or who wants to begin investigating options for the future is welcome to take advantage of our FREE, personalized service.

How can Oasis provide this valuable service at no cost?

Oasis Senior Advisors offers its services at no cost to seniors and their families. This is made possible through the financial contributions of local senior housing communities, many of whom reimburse us for our services.

Why use an Oasis Senior Living Advisor instead of an Internet referral service or Directory Listing?

1. Unlike web-based or printed directory services, our Senior Living Advisors go the ‘extra mile’ by personally accompanying our clients to communities if they desire.
2. Our Senior Living Advisors are bound by a code of ethics, by consistently doing what is in the best interest of our clients.
3. Senior Living Advisors will assist families in investigating all funding options available to them such as the Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Pension and reverse mortgages.

Our Mission:

The mission of Oasis Senior Advisors is to positively impact families during a difficult time in their lives. We do this by providing a free, personal and compassionate service to help our families find the right assisted living for their loved ones.

Our Guiding Principles:

At Oasis Senior Advisors, we follow a set of core principles that guide every interaction we have with customers, families and communities.

*We promote the dignity of the senior placement service by protecting the confidentiality of our clients and by conducting ourselves ethically and lawfully.

*We act honestly and impartially and offer unbiased placement options.

*We use our knowledge, skills and resources for the enhancement of the lives of seniors and families.

Contact your local Senior Living Advisors Today!

We work hard for you:

As a FREE SERVICE for families, our dedicated and compassionate Senior Living Advisors will work with seniors and their family members to identify lifestyle preferences and health care needs, as well as location and financial considerations. Once suitable options have been identified, your personal Senior Living Advisor will schedule visits and tours while assisting throughout the entire process.

We specialize in educating and informing seniors and their family members on the distinctions and options pertaining to:

*Assisted Living Communities

*Alzheimer’s Care

*Retirement Communities

*Skilled Nursing Homes

*Residential Care Homes

*Respite Services

*Hospice

*Dementia Care

An Oasis Senior Living Advisor can help you prepare regardless of your time frame. Let Oasis Senior Advisors support you in your search!

Contact your local Senior Living Advisors and start your search now!

(201) 674-9940

BergenCounty.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com

Get Started Today

1. Call (201) 674-9940 or VISIT US ONLINE at BergenCounty.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com.
2. Receive your FREE personalized, in depth consultation with your local Oasis Senior Living Advisor and feel prepared to take the next steps.
3. Our Senior Living Advisor will help you from start to finish in finding the senior living community that meets your requirements and is right for your specific situation.

*Disclaimer: I have taken this information directly from the Oasis Senior Advisors pamphlet. I have never used this service before so I have no opinion either yes or no to how the service works. Please call or email them for more information on the program.

Men & Caregiving: Caring for an older, ill or disabled adult. Tips to make your job easier.

As a man providing care for a parent, spouse or other loved one, you may face unique challenges, but there are things you can do to make caregiving easier. Here are some tips that will help you succeed.

Know that you are not alone:

*Our Society tends to view caregiving as a female role. In fact, men make up nearly 40% of family caregivers.

*Men can be very successful in this role. Community resources can help you be the best caregiver possible.

Ask Questions:

*Get as much information as you can about your loved one’s condition.

*Find out what types of care your loved one will need, both now and in the future.\

*Talk to health professionals and other care providers or find information online.

Be Open to new Skills:

*You may have to learn to shop, cook, clean or do other household tasks that are new to you.

*You may need to learn to bathe or dress a loved one.

* At first, you may feel uncomfortable doing these things but over time it will become easier.

Ask for Help!

*A friend or a relative may be able to help you learn new household tasks. A visiting nurse or home health aide can help you learn to provide personal care.

*Find out about community resources such as adult day care or transportation services.

*If you work, ask about employee assistance programs for caregivers.

*Look online for other resources and support groups.

Learn to delegate:

*Decide which tasks you want to do yourself. Get help with other tasks.

*Try meal delivery, a cleaning service or online grocery shopping.

Take care of your own health:

*You can not take care of a loved one if you feel sick or tired.

*Make sure that you are eating well and getting enough rest and exercise.

*Take regular breaks.

*See a health care provider if you are depressed, drinking more alcohol than usual or using prescription drugs to help you cope.

Find support and male role models:

*It is normal to feel strong emotions such as grief, anger and helplessness. It is not a sign of weakness to feel or express these emotions.

*If possible, spend time with other men who face similar challenges. This may help relieve stress.

*Share your feelings with a caregiving class, support group or online chat room.

Take Pride in your Role:

*Male caregivers are becoming more common but you may find people react to a male caregiver differently than they do to a female caregiver. This can happen even in hospitals or nursing homes.

*Use the opportunity to educate others about your role as a competent, caring provider.

If you’re a man taking care of an ill or elderly family member, you’re not along. With smaller families and more women working full-time, many men are taking on caregiving roles. To locate resources in your area, visit: http://www.eldercare.gov.

*Written by Tara Leonard for Journeyworks Publishing

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA 95061

800-775-1998

http://www.journeyworks.com

*Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Journeyworks pamphlet on caregiving that will help everyone. Please spread the word of helping a loved one and know that you are not alone in this path. Take a deep breath and realize that what you are doing is helping a person who can not help themselves and it is a noble job.