County to host support for caregivers

NEWTON — The Sussex County Dept. of Human Services, Division of Senior Services will administer two support groups for caregivers in gthe county.

The first group will be hosted at the United Way of Northern New Jersey, 2 Spring St., Suite 1, in Newton on the first Tuesday of every month from 3-4 p.m.

The second group will meet at the Franklin Labance Lane, Franklin, on the first Wednesday of every month from 2-3 p.m.

The Administration on Aging reports that families are the major provider of long-term care, but research has shown that caregiving exacts a heavy emotional toll. Almost 50 percent of all caregivers are older than 50, making them more vulnerable to a decline in their own health. Studies have shown that counseling and support services can reduce caregiver stress to help them cope more effectively with their responsibilities.

The funding is provided under Title III of the Older Americans Act.