TYRONE — Caregivers throughout the region are invited to gather, connect and find support during Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone’s special Caregiver Courtyard Social.
The Caregiver Courtyard Social, which begins at 1 p.m. on April 30, builds on a series of Caregiver Support Sessions launched in the summer of 2025. Originally designed to support those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, the sessions now welcome anyone providing care at home, regardless of diagnosis.
“This event is meant to offer caretakers an opportunity to share with others who are caring for a loved one at home and to gather information from healthcare professionals from homecare, hospice, and area hospitals while in a relaxing and supportive setting,” said Jennifer Fleck, Community Relations Director at the senior living community located at 5546 East Pleasant Valley Boulevard in Tyrone.
Building on the strong response to earlier Caregiver Support Sessions, organizers recognized a growing need to broaden the program’s reach and impact.
“We have expanded our sessions to be open to anyone caring for a loved one at home for any reason including Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, cancer or even just the challenges people face caring for someone aging at home without a specific diagnosis,” said Dawn Karlheim, Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone Executive Operations Officer.
The social is designed to offer both practical guidance and emotional support in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
“It can be a challenge to get information when something urgent happens,” Fleck said. “We want to be a resource for families and give them the opportunity to meet with these professionals one on one to ask their questions and talk through their concerns in person. These are professionals in our community who want to make sure people get the care they need when they need it. They are amazing.”
Karlheim said the upcoming event is designed to give caregivers both practical support and a sense of connection as they navigate the challenges of caring for a loved one. She noted that bringing together community members and local healthcare professionals can help caregivers feel more confident and equipped along the way.
“Our goal is to partner with you, so you feel prepared, supported and never alone in this journey. We encourage caretakers to join us,” Karlheim said. “Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone is known for our beautiful outdoor courtyard, and we’re excited to be hosting an outdoor event with local healthcare professionals.”
For many caregivers, the value of shared experience is just as important as access to information.
“Caring for your loved one at home is an act of love, and our role is to help you feel confident and supported in that care,” said Mary Ann Ott, LifeStages Coordinator at Colonial Courtyard at Tyrone. “The people who have been attending our caregiver support sessions since last summer have found value in the educational sessions, and with hearing stories from others who are in similar situations.”
The social will feature light refreshments, door prizes and opportunities to meet one-on-one with local healthcare professionals from home care, hospice and area hospitals. Admission is free, and caregivers may RSVP by emailing [email protected] or call 814.686.5970.
Organizers hope the April 30 social will continue to build a sense of community among caregivers while connecting them with trusted local resources, all in a setting designed to encourage conversation, comfort, and support.
For more information or to RSPV, contact [email protected] or call 814.686.5970.
