Easterseals Celebrates Caregiver Month

New Castle, DE – Jack Witzman knew something was not right when he and his wife, Jackie, were driving home from the store one day and, suddenly, Jackie did not know where she was going. Jackie was later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, confirming his suspicion. After traveling the path of a caregiver alone for a while, Jack turned to Easterseals for the help he was seeking and the socialization Jackie needed.

“Jackie is no longer able to be left alone at home. With Easterseals, I can go to work and do not have to worry. She is with people I trust. It is a comforting feeling to know she is in good hands,” Jack says. “Jackie enjoys the people there and loves interacting with them. Jackie is all smiles when I pick her up. That is the most important aspect.”

November is National Family Caregivers month. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, there are more than 34 million family caregivers, like Holly, in the U.S. One of the greatest needs of these caregivers is respite or a temporary relief for caregivers and families who are caring for children or adults with disabilities, chronic or terminal illness, or the elderly.

“Easterseals offers a broader opportunity for their participants to thrive. Their programs provide mental stimulation. Jackie is doing something she is proud of,” Jack says. “While Jackie is at Easterseals, I can accomplish things I might not be able to while she is at home. I am able to rejuvenate and prepare for her return. It is a mental refreshment.”

Jackie spends several days a week at the Easterseals day program for aging adults and those with disabilities, allowing Jack time to go to work without worry. Not only is Jackie able to remain active in the community, she is also becoming more flexible through the exercise program Easterseals provides, making it easier for her to walk up stairs and perform other physically demanding tasks.

“Caregiving is a learning process. Readjusting our life has been difficult. I am still learning how to deal with my changing circumstances,” Jack says. “Everyone I have met at Easterseals is caring, professional and knowledgeable. They have a sincere concern for their participants. It takes a considerable amount of skill to do what they do.”

Easterseals Delaware & Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers a range of services, including children’s therapies, assistive technology, recreational camping, day programs for adults with physical or intellectual disabilities, and respite services for caregivers. To learn more about how Easterseals helps children and adults with disabilities, call 1-800-677-3800 or visit www.de.easterseals.com.

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