Alzheimer's Club

BELMONT - The ABC's of Alzheimer's and Dementia is a three-part education series for families of persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. It is designed to enhance your understanding of the disease, how it affects your loved one and how to effectively deal with it day-to-day. This free series is open to the public. It will be held from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Wednesdays, April 12, 19 and 26, at the Belmont AmeriHost Inn and Convention Center, Wisconsin 151, exit 26.

On April 12, Dr. Mark Sager of the Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute will provide an overview of Alzheimer's and other dementias from a medical perspective. Topics will include the effects of dementia on the brain, various causes of dementia, stages and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, treatment options, and current research.

The April 19 presentation will examine the effects of dementia on the person and offer practical tips and techniques that family and friends can use to decrease confusion and foster success for their loved one who has dementia. Patricia Wilson and Deanna Truedson of the Alzheimer's Association South Central Wisconsin Chapter will provide insights into understanding the causes of difficult behaviors and how to prevent or respond to them through effective communication, structure and routine, activity and involvement, and safety measures.

The final session on April 26 will focus on the special challenges faced by family caregivers and the resources available to them. An experienced family caregiver, Dale Bruhnk, along with Alzheimer's Association Program Director Mary Reines, will discuss the caregiver's journey, how to cope and thrive as a caregiver, how to involve family and friends, and how to access available resources.

Light refreshments and a different packet of resource materials will be provided at each session. The series is free, but donations are welcomed. Space is limited. More information or to register for the series is available by calling the Alzheimer's Association at (800) 272-3900 or (608) 232-3400.

Source: Alzheimer's series offered in Belmont. The Times Plus (4 April 2006) [FullText]