What is social engagement and why is so beneficial to both caregiver and care-receiver?
A social engagement program provides social opportunities, activities and discussion between care-partners and dedicated program coordinators and volunteers. These programs have multiple physical, behavioral and emotional benefits. These are programs that keep people connected to their communities. They help keep the care-receiver active and alert and prevent isolation, loneliness, boredom and a decline in self-worth of both the caregiver and care-receiver.
Both care partners need social engagement to experience:
• Sense of Belonging – a place where they can be themselves, stress free zone
• Supportive Environment – a place where they can give and get support from one another and the staff and volunteers
• Self Worth & Quality of Life – a place that where they can engage and contribute
• Exploration – a place where they can explore new ideas/new activities

Where can we find Social Engagement Programs in Waukesha County?

There are many Memory or Care Cafes. Brookfield, Waukesha and Oconomowoc
The SPARKair Program sponsored by Interfaith.
The Caregiver Intermission program sponsored by the ADRC
The Public Libraries – all – but special programming at Lake Country & New Berlin
Senior Centers and Adult Day Centers throughout the county.

Studies show that Americans who socialize regularly live longer and have a better quality of life.Happy and healthy relationships lead to happy and healthy living.