The Roaring 20s was the theme of the 20th annual Caregiver Appreciation event for the Beaver County Office on Aging’s Caregiver Support Program. The gala took place on June 26 at Monaca Turners in Monaca. The hall was decked out in black and gold and featured a fun photo booth with props reminiscent of the 1920s.
This annual event provided an opportunity to recognize and honor CSP caregivers, and for caregivers to meet and support each other. The goal of the CSP program is to provide financial reimbursement, emotional and educational support to caregivers in the community so they can continue to care for their loved ones at home. Some of the caregivers in the program are caring for or raising grandchildren. Others are caring for a spouse or parent. Either way, the program strives to support these caregivers.
The BCOA staff welcomed Dr. Tod Marion, a psychologist, as the keynote speaker. He discussed ways to deal with caregiver stress. Each caregiver was recognized by their care manager and presented with a book on caregiving, gift cards to Eat ‘n Park, and other items. Entertainment was provided by singer Tiffani Eckhart, who lit up the room with old-time songs that had attendees humming along. A delicious buffet included baked chicken, rigatoni with meatballs, rolls, parsley potatoes, steamed vegetables, meat trays, perogies and cake from Kretchmar’s Bakery in Beaver. The day’s agenda also included a “TV show songs” contest and raffles for gift baskets.
This year, BCOA added something new to its list of services for caregivers: an online educational library platform called Trualta, which offers caregiving education by providing articles, videos and support groups for any topic, disease or caregiving-related issues. Attendees were given a demonstration and an opportunity to sign up free.
About CSP
If you’re a caregiver of an older adult, or grandparent (relative) 55 or older, as primary caregiver of children under the age of 18, you may qualify for this program. Call the Office on Aging, to find out if your caregiving expenses can be reimbursed. Financial reimbursement may be provided for out-of-pocket caregiving expenses, such as personal care services, supplies, assistive devices, school supplies, summer camp or home modifications. Total household income determines the specific percentage of monthly reimbursement.
To learn more about the Caregiver Support Program, visit beavercountypa.gov/departments/office-on-aging.
