For Family Caregivers

VNA Family of Services has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval.

For Family Caregivers: Support and Education

Taking Charge: Monthly education & counseling sessions designed to empower family caregivers

Butler, 2nd Monday of the month starting September 14, 2009 from 11 am - 1:30 pm. No fee to attend. Meeting place is in the VNA Community Bereavement Center at 160 Hindman Road, Butler, PA 16001. A limited number of care and transportation scholarships are available. Depending on availability of scholarships, care for your loved one can be provided at no charge by Lifesteps Adult Day Health Services nearby or by private duty in the home through VNA Complete Care Services during these sessions. Round trip transportation to Lifesteps and the VNA will be provided at no charge to those in need of this service depending on availability. Taking Charge is facilitated by experienced VNA counselors who not only provide education and foster support but also guide caregivers in goal-setting and provide ongoing counseling to help empower caregivers and keep them healthy. If you are caring for a family member full-time or part-time, support the care of a loved one in a nursing home, or are anticipating becoming a family caregiver in the near future, you may benefit from participating in Taking Charge. Lunch is provided at each session. Registration is required one week before each session for planning purposes. Call 724 431-3520. More Information pdf...

Family Caregiver Forum: Open forum where family caregivers can receive education and support

Kittanning, 3rd Wednesday of each month beginning May 20, 2009 at 10 am. No fee to attend. (A partnership of the ACMH Foundation & the VNA) Located at ACMH Hospital, One Nolte Drive, Kittanning, PA 16201 in the 2nd floor Continuing Education Room. This forum will be led by an experienced VNA Counselor. Participants can voice their concerns about their personal situations, receive educational guidance and support, and learn from others in similar situations. Registration recommended but not required. Call 724 431-3520 for information or to register.

Caring Well: Individualized session to preserve, kindle and liberate the spirit of the caregiver

The VNA is committed to keeping family caregivers healthy as they face the many challenges of their roles. Call 724 431-3520 for an individual session with a bereavement specialist for support and education. There is no fee.

Caring Decisions: Individualized session for the seriously ill (and/or the caregivers) to provide counseling, education and hope.

This unique program of the VNA gives families an opportunity to meet with a counselor to discuss and explore options regarding their health care choices when facing a serious illness of any kind. The counselor will listen to your concerns and provide information about the many services available from all agencies within your community. Your personal visit can occur at your convenience in your home, hospital, skilled nursing facility, assisted living facility or personal care home within our service area. Our counselors can dispel myths, reduce anxiety and facilitate informed decision-making. This service does not require a physician order. Anyone can request this service and there is no fee. Call 1 877 862-6659 or 724-431-3504 to schedule your “Caring Decisions” visit.

Grieving Now: Individualized session for individuals or families facing an impending loss

Call 724 431-3520 for an individual session with a bereavement specialist for support and education. There is no fee.