Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to provide tools you—the family caregiver—need to take care of yourself. Six, ninety-minute classes held once a week are led by certified class leaders from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.  

As a participant you will learn how to:

• Reduce stress
• Improve self-confidence
• Better communicate feelings
• Balance your life
• Increase ability to make tough decisions
• Locate helpful resources

When you take care of yourself, everyone benefits.

In an effort to proactively protect the hea.lth of our community,  the upcoming Powerful Tools for Caregivers class, set to begin March 23, 2020 has been CANCELLED. 

Serving as a caregiver may stir up feelings of guilt as families struggle with what is best for the person in need and how it affects the rest of the family.

Understanding your choices means knowing your current situation. Finances of Caregiving, a course offered through Iowa State Extension and Outreach, will guide participants through finding and collecting that information. Materials and guidance will assist caregivers in protecting their assets and preparing for their retirement while providing care.

Course Outline

Lesson 1: Understanding Your Starting Point

• Personal worksheets

Lesson 2: Why It’s Essential to Plan

• Wills and living wills
• Durable power of attorney for healthcare and other financial matters

Lesson 3: Caregivers: Don’t Forget to Plan for YOUR Retirement

• Retirement Plans: Ways to continue tax-deferred savings while caregiving

Lesson 4: Paying for Care

• Long-term care insurance
• Veterans benefits, Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid

Lesson 5: Effective Communication

• Taking time and planning ahead
   

NEW CLASSES COMING SOON!