Caregiver Support

Caring for an elderly family member can be a rewarding experience. It can also become physically and emotionally exhausting. Caregivers need to know that by taking time for themselves, they will be better able to provide long-term care for their loved one. VINE staff is knowledgeable about local resources, facilitates support groups, offers skill building classes and advises adult children who are involved in the care of their aging parents.

COVID-19 Update:

Although we are unable to meet in person, our Live Well at Home Team is still available for support Monday – Friday. Please call (507) 387-1666 to speak with one of us to see how we may be of assistance.

Caregiver Coaching

VINE’s professional staff provides caregiver coaching to family members and friends to assist and improve their knowledge, technique and support systems so they can do the best job possible in providing care. They are available to attend medical and legal appointments with caregivers, make referrals to community agencies, offer guidance in personal and family decisions, assist with health care directives and provide emotional support when a loved one is admitted to a health care facility or passes on.

Caregiver Support Group

A facilitated caregiver support group is offered twice a month at the VINE Adult Community Center.

Second and Fourth Wednesday of each month
1:30 – 3 pm
*Due to COVID-19, these support groups are currently not being offered*

This group is for anyone caring for a person with a progressive illness such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.

Please call (507) 387-1666 with any questions.

To learn more about the caregiver support group call VINE at (507) 387-1666 or email Mary Wichtendahl.

Film Library

VINE has a large collection of educational films available to assist families with their caregiving responsibilities. Call Mary Wichtendahl at (507) 387-1666 to arrange a convenient time to come to the VACC to view a film.

LGBTQ+ Caregivers

A priority for VINE Staff is to continue understanding and responding to the needs of older adults in our community. LGBTQ elders and advocates are invited to VINE’s monthly Coffee & Conversation in the safe and supportive environment of the VINE Adult Community Center on the last Tuesday of the month from 6:30-7:30 pm. Topics of conversation may include: networking, socializing, caregiving, other services and support available in the community.
Questions? Call Joyce at (507) 386-5583.
We share these resources as a way for you to join us in learning more about the needs of older LGBTQ adults.

Statistics Reguarding Older LGBT Americans

Identifiying and Referring LGBT Caregivers

Respite Care

Respite care provides a family caregiver some needed time away to attend appointments, go shopping, meet with friends, or simply take a break from caregiving responsibilities. A trained respite volunteer is available to come to your home and provide companionship and supervision for a maximum of three hours each week. Respite volunteers do not administer medications, do housework, or assist with personal cares.

If additional respite services are needed, we suggest the VINE Adult Respite Center which is open Monday through Friday from 8 am – 5 pm. We offer affordable rates, transportation, and a stimulating and safe environment for your loved one to enjoy. Learn more about the VINE Adult Respite Center.

Call VINE Social Worker, Mary Wichtendahl, at (507) 387-1666 to discuss your needs.