Powerful Tools for Caregivers is a series of classes designed to empower family caregivers of older adults to take better care of themselves. The “tools” learned in the six week series benefit caregivers by helping them reduce stress, improve caregiving confidence, establish balance in their lives, communicate their needs, make tough decisions and locate helpful resources.
Classes are led by certified experienced class leaders. Topics include:
- Taking Care of You
- Identifying and Reducing Personal Stress
- Communicating Feelings, Needs and Concerns
- Learning from Emotions
- Communicating in Challenging Situations
- Mastering Caregiving Decisions
Iowa State University Extension is the lead organization bringing Powerful Tools for Caregivers to Iowa communities. Community partners have provided support for local programs and for class leader training. 35 class leaders have been certified in Iowa.
The Powerful Tools for Caregivers program was originally developed in Oregon and is now managed by Legacy Health Systems. Research evaluation from Wisconsin, Illinois and Oregon shows consistently positive outcomes for participating caregivers including decreased depression, increased use of community services and increased self-confidence in the caregiver role. The classes are currently taught in 17 states.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers classes are scheduled in local communities throughout the year. Upcoming Iowa classes are posted on the classes page and on the Iowa Family Caregiver site.
- Learn how to become a certified class leader
- Iowa class leader training dates and registration information
- Class leader selection considerations
Iowa certified class leaders will find:
- Planning, publicity, teaching and follow-up materials
- On-line reporting
- Leader updates
For further information on caregiver classes or class leader training contact Kyle Kostelecky, (515) 294-4824.