February 14, 2020

2020 Volunteer Respite Training

Caregiver

REST (Respite Education and Support Tools) is a FREE evidence-based training program delivering education and support to those offering a break to caregivers.  This program is designed for someone who  provides care for a family member or who volunteers to care for someone outside their family.  There will be an all-day training in Fort Smith…


February 3, 2020

Healthy Cooking In 2020

healthy cooking meal

Healthy Cooking at the Donald W Reynolds Cancer Support House has started a new year!  We invite you to join us each month as we prepare a healthy, budget friendly meal for a family.  We strive to introduce meals that are appetizing but meet the goals of being healthy and in budget. Join us for…


January 17, 2020

January CNA Class Enrolling Now

CNA working with older adult

Would you like to become a CNA? Do you have a heart for caregiving? CNA classes are enrolling now in Fort Smith! Our next 15 day class begins January 21st. For more information phone 479-478-8819 or email ljhoward@uams.edu


December 10, 2019

Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP)

DEEP information

The West Central Center on Aging will offer DEEP (Diabetes Empowerment Education Program) at the Greenwood Public Library, each Thursday, January 9th – February 13th from 2 pm – 4 pm. The Greenwood Public Library is located at 18 North Adair Street in Greenwood. This six week program will offer hands-on training for diabetes including:…


December 5, 2019

Holiday Hints for Alzheimer’s Caregivers

holiday family gathering

Holidays can be meaningful, enriching times for both the person with Alzheimer’s disease and his or her family. Maintaining or adapting family rituals and traditions helps all family members feel a sense of belonging and family identity. For a person with Alzheimer’s, this link with a familiar past is reassuring. However, when celebrations, special events,…


November 26, 2019

Holiday Travel Tips for Caregivers

senior in wheelchair

Family togetherness is one of the best things about the holidays. As fun as these times are, extended travel can be hard on all of us, especially senior citizens. The difficulties that arise from busy roads, shifting plans and accommodation searching can often overwhelm seniors. This is why caring for your elderly family member should…


November 13, 2019

Cold Weather Is Here….What You Need to Know About Hypothermia

woman dressed for cold weather

Hypothermia is what happens when your body temperature gets very low. For an older person, a body temperature of 95°F or lower can cause many health problems, such as a heart attack, kidney problems, liver damage, or worse. A heavy wind can quickly lower your body temperature. Check the weather forecast for windy and cold…


November 5, 2019

WCCOA Caregiver of the Year 2019

cookies and punch for caregiver celebration

The West Central Center on Aging is celebrating our 2019 Caregiver of the Year, Debbie Smith. Debbie is the caregiver for both her mother and father. She is doing an exceptional job caring for her parents. Congratulations Debbie!


October 18, 2019

CNA Fast Track Graduates

Graduation day for Schmieding students

Congratulation to the latest CNA Fast Track graduates – Tonya Dempster and Jordan Wilson. They are both ready to take the state exam and begin their careers in the caregiving field. We know that Tonya and Jordan will do great things! If you would like more information on becoming a CNA contact us at 479-478-8819…


October 4, 2019

FUMC Grant for Caregiving

FUMS presenting grant check

The West Central on Aging was one of the first recipients of the First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith Community Grant. The Grant Committee representatives presented the check to WCCOA Education Director, Patricia Clark. This grant will be used to train caregivers in the Fort Smith community. Thank you First United Methodist Church of…



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