Free Courses for Caregivers Opened in Latvia

SIVA invites informal caregivers to enroll in a free training program that will help acquire practical skills in caring for loved ones with disabilities or functional impairments. The courses are intended for those who assist a family member, friend, or other close person daily and do so without payment. The program is divided into three thematic modules. The first module, "Rights and Responsibilities," will take place from September 28 to October 1. Participants will learn about social services, the process of establishing disability, measures of state and municipal support, as well as the rights of both the dependents and the caregivers themselves. The second module, "Household, Environment, and Ergonomics," will be held from October 19 to 22. The sessions will cover how to make housing safer, reduce the risk of falls, properly use rehabilitation equipment, and organize care to make it more convenient for both the dependent and the caregiver. From October 26 to 29, the "Communication" module will focus on psychological support, interaction with specialists, the peculiarities of communicating with people in need of care, and maintaining their independence. For many families, such care becomes a daily obligation; however, not everyone has specialized knowledge. The free courses provide practical recommendations from specialists and teach skills that can ease everyday caregiving. To participate, it is necessary to fill out a questionnaire on the SIVA website and select the desired training module. The number of places is limited, and after reviewing the applications, invitations will be sent to the participants. In-person classes will be conducted in Latvian at the SIVA Competence Development Center located at Slokas Street 61, in Jūrmala. The center opened in August of this year and is equipped for practical training. It features a demonstration apartment with a functional bed, a ceiling lift system, an adapted kitchen and bathroom, as well as a sensory room and equipment for assessing the needs of people with functional impairments. Training will be conducted by specialists from various fields — social workers, psychologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, nurses, legal advisors, and social rehabilitation specialists. Participation in the program is completely free. Participants will also be provided with free meals, and if necessary, accommodation at the SIVA dormitory in Jūrmala. After completing the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion of the informal education program.