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 care of themselves, they will be able to provide better and longer care for their loved one at home. VINE staff facilitates regular caregiver support groups, offers caregiver coaching, provides other caregiver resources, and is willing to advise adult children who are involved in the care of their aging parents. In addition, VINE’s Adult Respite Center provides a safe and social place for caregivers to bring their loved ones so they can have much-needed time for themselves.

COVID-19 Update:

VINE staff members are available for support Monday-Friday. Please call (507) 387-1666 to speak with one of us about how we may assist you.

Caregiver Coaching

Our professional staff is trained to provide caregiver coaching to family members and friends. The goals of coaching are to improve knowledge, technique, and support systems so caregivers can do the best possible job in providing care. Coaches are available to 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.

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In-Person Caregiver Support Group

Caregiver support groups are for anyone caring for a person with a progressive illness, including Alzheimer’s Disease. Pre-registration is required for all support groups to ensure social distancing and safety protocols during Covid-19. The groups are held in two locations:

Mankato, VINE Adult Community Center (VACC): 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, 1:30-2:30 pm. Contact Mary Wichtendahl at (507) 386-5577 or Carol Ries (507) 386-5571.

Mapleton, St. Teresa Catholic Church: 1st Tuesday of each month, 2:30-3:30 pm. Contact Joyce Kolbet at (507) 386-5583.

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 our LGBTQ+ elders and their advocates. Support is provided as needed.

LGBTQ+ CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP:

Please call Joyce at (507) 386-5583 if you are interested in being part of a Zoom Support Group on Wednesdays, 1-2 pm, beginning August 5.

Feel welcome to access the following resources for more information:

Statistics Reguarding Older LGBT Americans

Identifiying and Referring LGBT Caregivers

Why the LEI is Needed

National Resource Center on LGBT Aging

OutFront Minnesota