Jewish Family Services (JFS) is starting a monthly peer-led support group for the caregivers of aging parents and older adults. This follows JFS’ sponsored program for caregivers in July.
This new support group will meet on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m., with its first session scheduled for Aug. 8. The monthly support group will be held at the Jewish Community Campus and is open to everyone in the Kansas City community.
The monthly group aims to provide space for adult children and caregivers to support each other as they assist aging friends and family. Participants will have the opportunity to share their successes, strategies and struggles in making transitions due to aging easier. There will also be information on various community resources to help caregivers manage this process and stay healthy themselves.
“We had a big response at the Community Conversations event about caring for older adults from individuals needing ongoing support,” JFS Family Life Educator Jodi Perelmuter said. “We’re creating a place to gather, vent, discuss, strategize, learn and inspire each other. Caring for others as they age can feel isolating or confusing, and we’re here to provide a supportive community that can help lessen the load.”
Bridey Stangler is one of the peer leaders of the group. Stangler, who is PJ Library’s director and events associate at the Jewish Federation of Greater Kansas City, has extensive experience working with older adults and those with dementia.
More information about this program is available by contacting Perelmuter at or (913) 327-8259.
