FAQ's

Train-the-Trainer...

Through a 2 1/2-day train-the-trainer workshop, professionals are prepared to teach family caregivers an evidence-based curriculum that enables them to better care for themselves while caring for others.

Pairs of trained and licensed Class Leaders from hundreds of health care organizations and social service agencies have been trained by Mather LifeWays staff to teach groups of family caregivers a set of self-care skills. Through a six-part course, family caregivers learn and practice a wealth of tools to reduce stress and improve their coping skills through a variety of healthy behaviors. Classes conducted by Class Leaders are now in progress in more than 17 states. For a list of contacts in these states, go to:

• Click here to learn more about train-the-trainer options
• Click here if you are already a licensed Class Leader or Master Trainer
• Click here to see information about classes in your area

Class Leaders

Training is an intensive, experiential, and interactive workshop provided by a team of experienced Master Trainers from the Mather LifeWays Institute on Aging. Upon completion of the workshop, Class Leaders:

• Gain the necessary skills to teach groups of caregivers a set of self-care skills vital to their well-being
• Will be able to market the program successfully
• Raise awareness of their organization's resources

You Will Receive:

• Class Leader's Guide
• 76 Color Overhead Transparencies
• The Caregiver Helpbook
• Dollmaker video
• A relaxation CD/audiotape
• Carry bag
• Ongoing technical assistance
• Contact information listed on our website
• Listserv membership
• Semi-annual newsletter
• One-time licensing fee included ($75 value)

What professionals are saying about the train-the-trainer course:

"Overall, it is an excellent program." -- Class Leader, New York "This training was wonderful and I am excited to offer this program in my state." -- Class Leader, Iowa "While this was an intensive two and one-half days, it was very valuable to me." -- Class Leader, Florida "I feel very well prepared to teach Powerful Tools." -- Class Leader, Montana "It has been such a pleasure to be here!" -- Class Leader, Alabama

Who should attend:

• Social Workers
• Care Managers
• Registered Nurses
• Family Life Specialists
• Education Directors
• Caregiver Specialists
• People who want to increase their training skills and improve the lives of family caregivers

Powerful Tools for Caregivers has been tested among hundreds of family caregivers in Illinois and Oregon. Research evaluation has shown overwhelming positive outcomes for caregivers including:

• Increased self-confidence in the caregiver role
• Decreased depression
• Increased time spent in self-care activities (e.g. exercise)
• Increased use of community services

What family caregivers are saying about Powerful Tools classes taught by professionals like you:

"This is a very informative and educational program. I learned a lot of things so valuable to me as a caregiver." "I am grateful for having participated in this course. I now have the tools to handle my situation in caring for both my husband and brother." "By taking this course we have been given a list if places to look for help if needed. I hadn’t been aware of all the organizations and people to help caregivers find answers and many solutions to their problems." "As I look back, I realize I was on the verge of depression. By taking this class, I now take care of myself by doing for myself. I've learned how to retain and balance my hobbies and the joys of living with taking excellent care of my husband."