The program is one of three new training courses initiated by the department to help families provide safe and appropriate care for their loved ones.
Family caregivers are among our state's most important resources.
To honor the more than 700,000 family caregivers in our state, the governor has designated November as National Family Caregivers Month in New Jersey. The three new training programs launched by the department include the Caregivers Skills Training Program visited today by the commissioner, the In-Home Caregiver Education and Support Program and the Caring for You, Caring for Me Education and Support Program . Program participants receive hands-on instruction in the use of specialized assistance equipment and devices. They also learn such skills as communicating with care recipients and providers, infection control and physical care, personal care, body mechanics, medications, and stress management. This program is currently being offered by 7 agencies in 6 counties, including Cumberland, Hunterdon, Mercer, Monmouth, Ocean and Warren.