Informal caregiving for a loved one (that is, caregiving done by family or friends) is an act of love and compassion, but even if an individual enjoys this role, it can be physically and emotionally demanding, and caregivers often do not know how to access available resources.
Trualta to the rescue!
I was recently made aware of the above free online education and support platform through AgeGuide (a nonprofit organization that works closely with the Illinois Dept on Aging and other agencies). Trualta is a website that is geared toward aging parents, spouses, adult children, and relatives. It was created from the recognition that caregivers and family members often have limited support when caring for an individual.
Caregivers can simply go to ageguide.trualta.com or trualta.com and register for free. Caregivers then have access to a multitude of platforms such as learning resources including webinars, videos, chat groups (where many questions can be put forth), toolkits, and drop-in online support groups (where you can choose to be anonymous), to name a few.
I registered with Trualta and was very impressed with the wealth of information this website can provide. It is accessible any time and is full of practical information, learning skills, and tools designed to help caregiver family and friends navigate what often feels like uncharted waters.
Having a platform such as Trualta can be beneficial to caregivers in many essential ways. When caregivers have access to education, workshops, and tools they are better able to understand a specific situation and manage specific challenges that go with it. Trualta’s chat platforms and online support groups help the caregiver to manage emotional challenges that come with caring for a loved one. And finally, it allows the caregiver a social connection which allows for individuals to share experiences and coping strategies.
Check out the Trualta website. You’ll be glad you did!
Carpe Diem!
Next Memory Cafes: April 1 (Fort Hill Fitness) and April 8 (95th Street Library)
Editor’s Note: One more thing… The Naperville Senior Task Force will host a Naperville City Council Candidate Forum beginning at 7PM Thurs., March 20, in City Council Chambers, 400 S. Eagle Street. The public is invited to this live presentation featuring all eight City Council candidates running for one of four, four-year seats.
