Purdue News

February 16, 2001 Workshops encourage, equip caregivers for challenges ahead WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – At some point in each of our lives we'll be providing care for someone or receiving the care of others. A Purdue University workshop series will look at caregiving and how to deal with the challenges it presents. "Caregiving in the Heartland" will take place March 6 in Covington, Ind.; March 15 in Richmond, Ind.; April 12 in Indianapolis; and April 27 in Vincennes, Ind. The workshops are sponsored in part by Purdue's Breaking New Ground Outreach Program. "The workshops are designed to encourage and equip caregivers, especially those caring for individuals with long-term disabilities," said William Field, project leader of Breaking New Ground. Workshop topics include: long-term management of arthritis, handling finances during times of crisis, selecting and using attendant care, caregiver coping skills, maintaining a sense of humor, making the home environment more accessible and vehicle modifications. Among those scheduled to speak are Ed Bell, an Indiana strawberry farmer and executive director of the Independent Living Center of Eastern Indiana, and Mark Laker, an expert on the therapeutic value of laughter. Preregistration is required a week prior to a workshop. The $20 fee covers lunch, refreshments and caregiver resource materials. To register or for more information, call toll-free (800) 825-4264. CONTACTS: William Field, (765) 494-1191, field@ecn.purdue.edu; Paul Jones, program manager of Breaking New Ground, (765) 496-1221, jonesp@ecn.purdue.edu. Compiled by Beth Forbes, (765) 494-2722, bforbes@aes.purdue.edu To the Purdue News and Photos Page