Alzheimer’s Association classes set

A series of Alzheimer’s Association classes over the next few months will focus on caregiving and memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

The classes will run from noon to 1 p.m. on the respective dates at Alfred Dickey Library, 105 Third St. SE, Jamestown. Participants can bring their own lunches. The free presentations are open to the public.

“Understanding Memory Loss” on Feb. 11 explains the definitions of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, explains three effects of dementia on thinking, describes the stages of Alzheimer’s disease and discusses resources for people with dementia and their families.

“Positive Interactions with People with Dementia” on March 18 pays special attention to the importance of caregiving techniques that consider individual preferences, needs and abilities in understanding and responding to communication challenges and behaviors. Participants will learn about the impacts of dementia on the brain and how changes in the brain cause communication challenges for people with dementia.

This program is interactive for participants, too, as they practice techniques to help them understand the needs of the person with dementia and respond to each person’s needs.

“Making Connections” on April 22 is an interactive class on the basics of the importance of knowing who you are caring for to better meet their social needs, help them become more engaged and learn how to interact with residents at all stages of dementia. The event is appropriate for activity staff new to the profession or anyone new to working with persons with dementia.

For more information, contact Beth Olson, regional care consultant for Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota, at 952-0800 or bolson@ alz.org

This project is supported by funding granted through the North Dakota Department of Human Services, Aging Services Division.

Tags: life, health