Learning to finally educate myself to give better care

Neisedenisep77

Caregiving to a 68 year old woman that is family. I have some experience but not enough to give the best care to her.

I would love to take care of her better and myself.

Guess I'm asking for classes to take near league city also or online and accredited I do not care if it cost as long as it awards a license or degree to give me a peace of mind that I am doing my very best for her as a care giver

 and I don't know if there are licenses or classes for caregiving besides c.n.a. classes.

Also I am already a phlebotomist and have an associates pastoral degree and I'm turning 60 this year so not looking for years or tons of debt to be educated just want to give my best

Also a good Nuro Dr near league city tx a name a number of some that specialize in dementia and all types to get her meds right 

LicketyGlitz

I don't have info on professional courses that would result in certification, Neise, but here's free, online courses from the Alzheimer's Association:

https://training.alz.org/

I also found a Texas organization called CaregiverU that offers in person and online classes for dementia caregiving. I didn't dig too deep so I'm not sure if these are free or paid courses:

https://ageofcentraltx.org/index.php/caregivers/caregiveru/

There are also trainers like Teepa Snow who offer online training. Teepa has a ton of videos for free on YouTube, but I believe the more formal training is paid for:

https://teepasnow.com/resources/for-families-and-friends/

And here's one called the Dawn Method:

https://thedawnmethod.com/

There are lots of options to boost your training for little or no money. Maybe someone else can pipe in on more accredited programs - I don't know that stuff.

Also, look for a geratric psych doctor in your area, they specialize in medications for cognitive decline. You dementia person's primary physician can probably give her a referral to see one.

Good luck to you both!

Iris L.

Some of the best education is learning from the real-world experiences of the members here.  Read lots of threads.  Lots!  

Iris L.

mommyandme (m&m)

I’ve read a few books and one that really resonated with me is:

Did I Remember To Tell You A Real Life Guidebook for Dementia Family Caregivers 

by Pam Kovacs Johnson

I was already immersed pretty deeply into my caregiving experience and it helped me feel more informed and not so alone, even validated.

Peaceful thoughts being sent your way.