United Way of Northern New Jersey Caregivers Coalition will hold a Caregivers Conference on Saturday, September 22, providing area caregivers with access to information and resources critical to their role of caring for a loved one.

Held at the Merrill Creek Visitors Center, 34 Merrill Creek Road, in Washington from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the free conference will provide presentations and resources to help unpaid caregivers who assist loved ones of any age who are ill, frail or living with a disability or mental illness. Complimentary breakfast will be provided. 

The fifth annual Caregivers Conference in Warren County will explore topics that provide family caregivers with valuable information from local experts and connections to local resources. 

“As a caregiver, it’s easy to become overwhelmed when you are juggling caregiving duties on top of work and personal responsibilities,” said United Way Caregivers Coalition Manager Robin Ennis. “United Way is committed to providing caregivers with a community of support, including access to experts and practical life management strategies.” 

During the conference caregivers can attend the following presentations: 

• Brian Friedlander from AssistiveTek LLC will discuss how assistive technology can help caregivers and the people they are caring for.

• Lana Shanahan, a registered nurse and dietitian, will discuss a holistic approach to health and wellness as it pertains to nutrition, how to take time for yourself and maintaining a strong immune system. 

• John Niec, a mindfulness educator and former caregiver, will speak about self-care for caregivers and lend some techniques for decreasing stress.

The Coalition brings together caregivers, medical professionals, social service agencies, businesses and other community groups to support unpaid caregivers.

Copies of the updated United Way Caregivers Coalition’s “Pathways for Caregivers” will also be available. This free guide contains information, ideas and support for providing care for loved ones. There are separate sections on aging, disabilities and mental health issues, as well as information on veteran services. The guide is also available online at www.UnitedWayNNJ.org/CaregiverTools.