University of Illinois Extension Family Life Educator Kara Schweitzer will offer two free Family Life programs in January, providing community members with research-informed guidance on aging, caregiving, and overall well-being.
The DeKalb Public Library, located at 301 N 3rd Street in DeKalb, is hosting "Addressing Ageism and Promoting Inclusivity" on January 22 at 4:00 p.m. It is not uncommon for those living in the third stage of life to be categorized as the 55 or 60-plus group, which can subtly suggest that they are so similar they can be “lumped” together. This catch-all approach implies that older people are more alike than different from one another, which is a stereotype. Generalizations or stereotypes can lead to ageism, a form of discrimination based on a person’s age. The truth is, we are all aging, but ageist attitudes influence how we think of others and even ourselves. Registration is required by calling the library at 815-756-9568 ext. 2114 or emailing Susan at susang@dkpl.org.
The second program will be held at the Rock River Center, located at 810 S. 10th Street in Oregon, on January 28, beginning at 10:00 a.m. This program, “Caregiver Self-Care”, will cover the real challenges caregivers face and share practical ways to ease stress, prevent burnout, and take better care of yourself along the way. Caregivers not only perform hands-on tasks such as bathing, cooking, or handling financial matters, but they also provide emotional support and help with problem-solving and decision-making related to care. Caregivers may have their own children, grandchildren, work, and other responsibilities. Because caregivers are often so busy, they tend to overlook their own needs. They may not get enough sleep, nutritious meals, physical activity, or social time with friends. They also may not seek healthcare or find time for themselves. Registration is required by calling the Rock River Center at 815-732-3252.
University of Illinois Extension is committed to supporting individuals, families, and communities through accessible, research-based education. These January programs offer residents the opportunity to deepen their understanding of aging and caregiving while acquiring practical skills to enhance their daily lives. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, call Kara at 815-632-3611.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 700 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through six program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, family and consumer science, integrated health disparities, and natural resources, environment, and energy.