Institute for Caregivers (ICare)
The Onondaga County Office for Aging’s Institute for Caregivers (I Care) supports and empowers current and future caregivers through education and training. This mission is met by providing caregivers with the information and skills they need to make wise decisions regarding their own needs and the ever-changing needs of those that they care for.
About the Institute
The Institute for Caregivers provides education and training broad enough to pertain to various illnesses and disabilities but comprehensive enough to provide many tools. The Institute is sponsored by Onondaga County Office for Aging.
Class Videos to Watch
The very nature of giving care to a loved one means that time is both precious and not available in large quantities. For that reason, some of our classes are recorded for convenient viewing and playback.
Institute for Caregivers Classes – Fall 2025
Class Title: Medicare & You
When: Monday, October 6th 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Where: Liverpool Library: 310 Tulip St, Liverpool, NY 13088
Presented by: Taylor Frawley MPH, HSM; Aging Specialist with Onondaga County Adult & Long Term Care Services
Description: Whether you are new to Medicare or are interested in learning what’s new in the coming year, this class will help answer you questions so that you can make the right decisions for YOU!
Attendees will learn about:
• Office for Aging Health Insurance Information Counseling & Assistance Program (HIICAP)
• Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage Plans
• Medigap Supplement Plans
• What’s new for 2025?
• NYS Elder Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) What is it? Do I qualify?
• How do I pick the right plan for me?
• Income-Related Savings Programs
This program is made possible through funds from the National Family Caregiver Support Program and NYS Office for Aging. Voluntary contributions are gratefully accepted and used to expand programs and services for Caregivers. No person will be denied service if unable or unwilling to donate. All contributions are confidential.
To register, contact Suzanne Wilcox by calling 315-2362 ext. 4975 or email suzannewilcox@ongov.net
Class Title: Making Sense of Medicaid
When: Monday, October 13th 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Where: Liverpool Library: 310 Tulip St, Liverpool, NY 13088
Presented by: Morgan Thurston, Esq. Assistant Welfare Attorney Onondaga County
Description: This class will help lesson the confusion around Medicaid by addressing many of the common questions seniors and caregivers have, such as:
• How is Medicaid different from Medicare?
• Am I, or my loved one, eligible for Medicaid?
• Community or Chronic Care Medicaid: What are the big differences?
• What will Medicaid cover? What services will they pay for?
• When should I apply for Medicaid?
• How do I apply for Medicaid?
• What’s new for 2026?
This program is made possible through funds from the National Family Caregiver Support Program and NYS Office for Aging. Voluntary contributions are gratefully accepted and used to expand programs and services for Caregivers. No person will be denied service if unable or unwilling to donate. All contributions are confidential.
To register, contact Suzanne Wilcox by calling 315-2362 ext. 4975 or email suzannewilcox@ongov.net
Class Title: Memory Loss, Forgetfulness and Aging: Where to Turn to for Help
When: Tuesday, October 21st 5:00-6:30 p.m.
Where: Liverpool Library: 310 Tulip St, Liverpool, NY 13088
Presented by: Allie Jardin, LMSW at University Geriatricians/Nappi Wellness Institute
Description: Participants will increase their understanding on the effects the aging process has on the brain and will be introduced to University Geriatricians. University Geriatricians is Central New York’s only Center for Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease, which serves as a resource for individuals experiencing memory changes.
Attendees will learn about:
• Normal age-related changes versus changes in memory to discuss with a doctor
• How to speak with a doctor about memory concerns
• Information on different conditions that cause memory loss
• Distinguish between Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementia
• What services/care University Geriatricians and Central New York’s Center of Excellence for
Alzheimer’s Disease provides.
• Tips on how to “age well”
This program is made possible through funds from the National Family Caregiver Support Program and NYS Office for Aging. Voluntary contributions are gratefully accepted and used to expand programs and services for Caregivers. No person will be denied service if unable or unwilling to donate. All contributions are confidential.
To register, contact Suzanne Wilcox by calling 315-2362 ext. 4975 or email suzannewilcox@ongov.net