Supporting family caregivers is key to caring for vulnerable individuals in today’s society, whether they are elderly, disabled, or have chronic illnesses. The Siel Bleu association recognizes the importance of caregiver health and offers the “Au plus près des aidants” program, funded by the Conference of Funders for the Prevention of Loss of Autonomy (CFPPA) of Lot. Becoming a caregiver significantly impacts daily life and finding time for oneself can be a challenge. In response, Siel Bleu created a program designed for caregivers: twelve one-hour sessions of adapted physical activity (APA) at home. These sessions are supplemented by two sophrology sessions and two nutrition awareness sessions. The program also includes a kit of equipment to facilitate continued home exercise.
The Siel Bleu association is collaborating with Oustal Bernard Bagou de Glanes, a socio-medical establishment of the Camille-Miret Institute, and the Maison des aidants de Gourdon to organize this program. The adapted physical activity sessions will be provided at your home, tailored to your availability.
As this project is funded by the CFPPA du Lot, the program is entirely free for participants. Only five spots are available, so early registration is strongly recommended.
> Information from Carole Lacaze, departmental manager of Siel Bleu, on 07 60 88 73 80 or carole.lacaze@sielbleu.org.
Supporting Family Caregivers: The “Au Plus Près des Aidants” Program
Caring for loved ones who are elderly, disabled, or managing a chronic illness is a demanding task that often falls on family caregivers. These dedicated individuals shoulder significant responsibilities, making their own well-being a crucial aspect of overall care. The Siel Bleu association, with funding from the Conference of Funders for the Prevention of Loss of Autonomy (CFPPA) of Lot, recognizes the immense impact caregiving has on the physical and mental health of caregivers. In response, they’ve created the “Au Plus Près des Aidants” program, designed to provide essential support and resources for family caregivers in the Lot region of France.
Addressing the Needs of Family Caregivers
The “Au Plus Près des Aidants” program directly addresses the unique challenges faced by family caregivers. Many caregivers find it difficult to prioritize their own health due to demanding caregiving schedules. The program understands these difficulties and offers a solution that is both accessible and effective.
A Tailored Approach to Caregiver Wellness
The “Au Plus Près des Aidants” program provides a comprehensive approach to supporting family caregivers, encompassing these key elements:
- Home-Based Adapted Physical Activity (APA): The program’s cornerstone is a series of twelve one-hour APA sessions, tailored to the individual needs and abilities of each caregiver. These sessions are held in the comfort of the participant’s home, fostering convenience and reducing potential barriers to participation.
- Sophrology Sessions: Two specialized sophrology sessions are included. Sophrology is a mind-body technique that combines elements of relaxation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness to promote stress reduction, improve emotional well-being, and enhance overall health and sleep quality.
- Nutrition Awareness Sessions: Recognizing the importance of a balanced diet, the program also incorporates two nutrition awareness sessions. These sessions aim to equip caregivers with practical knowledge and strategies for making informed food choices that support their physical and mental health.
- Home Exercise Kit: To further encourage ongoing physical activity, each participant receives a kit of equipment designed for home use. This provides caregivers with the tools they need to maintain an active lifestyle even following the program concludes.
A Collaborative Network for Caregiver Support
The “Au Plus Près des Aidants” program is made possible through a collaborative partnership between Siel Bleu, Oustal Bernard Bagou de Glanes (a socio-medical establishment of the Camille-Miret Institute), and the Maison des Aidants de Gourdon. This network ensures that the program benefits from the expertise and resources of each organization, creating a comprehensive support system for caregivers.
Accessibility and Eligibility
The program is completely free of charge for participants, thanks to funding provided by the CFPPA du Lot. However, due to limited program capacity, only five individuals are accepted at a time. Interested caregivers are encouraged to register promptly to secure a spot in the program.
Program Details and Contact Information:
| Program Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 APA sessions 2 Sophrology sessions 2 Nutrition Awareness sessions |
| Frequency | Weekly sessions |
| Location | Participant’s home |
| Cost | Free of charge |
| Contact Information | Carole Lacaze, Siel Bleu (07 60 88 73 80) carole.lacaze@sielbleu.org |
Benefits of the Program for Caregivers
- Improved Physical Health: Regular physical activity strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances mobility, reducing the risk of injuries and promoting overall vitality.
- Enhanced Mental Well-being: Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, and reduces stress and anxiety. This can be especially beneficial for caregivers who often experience emotional strain.
- Increased Energy Levels: Physical activity can boost energy levels, combating fatigue and enabling caregivers to better manage their demanding caregiving responsibilities.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Regular exercise can promote better sleep patterns, leading to improved alertness and reduced fatigue during the day.
- **Increased Confidence: Participating in a program designed specifically for caregivers can foster a sense of community and shared experience, building confidence and resilience.
- Access to Holistic Care: The combination of APA, sophrology, and nutrition awareness provides a holistic approach to caregiver wellness, addressing not only physical health but also mental and emotional well-being.
The “Au Plus Près des Aidants” program offers a valuable resource for family caregivers in the Lot region, providing a roadmap to improved well-being and a more sustainable and fulfilling caregiving experience. By nurturing the health of caregivers, the program contributes to both the well-being of those who provide care and the quality of life of those who receive it.
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