Alzheimer's Education Series Returns to Elder Services on May 12
PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Elder Services of Berkshire County, in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Association, will present a six-part caregiver education series on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
The dates are May 12, 19, and 26, and June 2, 9, and 16. All sessions are from 2 to 4 p.m.
Sessions 1, 2, 4 and 6 will be facilitated by Marcia McKenzie, M. Ed., Manager, Western Massachusetts Alzheimer’s Association, and Roberta “Bobbi” Orsi, MS, RN, CCP. These sessions include:
1.“The Basics of Dementia,” addressing normal aging vs. dementia, related disorders, how to obtain a diagnosis and how to talk to your doctor.
2. “Behavior and Communication,” addressing different ways to approach and speak to an individual with Alzheimer’s disease, common behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s and how to prevent wandering and restlessness.
4. “Caregiving at Home”, addressing how to structure the day, how to help with personal care, and safety issues in the home and concerning driving.
6.“Care for the Caregiver,” addressing the warning signs of caregiver stress, respite and coping strategies.
Session 3, “Asking for Help,” presented by Caregiver Coordinator Bea Cowlin, LSW, will address the best time to ask for help, local resources, and how to select appropriate care services, and Attorney Pamela Green will present Session 5 on “Legal and Financial Issues,” addressing legal and financial matters and advance care planning.
More and more family members are becoming caregivers to their loved ones. We know that caregivers have unique needs that if not addressed can lead to caregiver burnout. This series offers important information on Alzheimer’s disease, and related dementias, and allows for discussion on what caregivers need and how they can better cope with the increased stress that comes with caregiving. Caregivers are encouraged to attend all of the sessions, but may attend only those that interest them.
To register for the Alzheimer’s Care Partners Education Series, call Elder Services at 499-0524 or 1-800-544-5242.
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