Learn about Alzheimer's, dementia through local courses
The Alzheimer’s Association is offering a series of educational programs that cover key information about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia and related topics for people who are facing a diagnosis as well as those who wish to be informed. Volunteer Community Educator Thane Kraut is delivering each of these free community presentations.
RSVPs are encouraged. Call 800-272-3900 or register online at alz.org/crf.
The Alzheimer’s Association Winter Dementia Education 2019 series:
- Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia — Learn about the impact of and difference between Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, disease stages, risk factors, current research and treatments available; Wednesday, Feb. 6, 1:30 to 3 p.m., Whitefish Community Center, 121 E. Second St.
- Effective Communication Strategies — As a caregivers, learn to decode messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language to communicate in meaningful ways at each stage of the disease; Wednesday, Feb. 27, 1:30 to 3 p.m., Whitefish Community Center, 121 E. Second St.
- Know the 10 Warning Signs — Learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common triggers, and strategies to help with some of the most common challenges of Alzheimer’s disease such as repetition, paranoia, anxiety and aggression; Tuesday, March 19, noon to 1:30 p.m., North Valley Senior Center, 205 Nucleus Ave., Columbia Falls
For those unable to leave home or work to attend the in-person classes, additional free presentations are offered by phone and online.
By telephone — Register by noon the day before the program by calling 800-272-3900. The call-in information is provided upon registration.
- Tuesday, Jan. 29, 3 to 4 p.m. — Know the 10 Signs
- Thursday, Feb. 28, 3 to 4 p.m. — Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
- Thursday, March 28, 1 to 2 p.m. — Effective Communication Strategies
Learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each step of the disease.
Online — Classes are also available free of charge through the Alzheimer’s Association website (training.alz.org) at all hours, 365 days a year.
In the United States alone, more than 5 million individuals are living with Alzheimer’s disease and 16 million are serving as their unpaid caregivers. The disease is a global crisis that impacts many families in the Flathead area. Currently over 20,000 Montanans are living with Alzheimer’s and another 49,000 family members and friends are providing their care. It can be an isolating experience, but no one needs to face this disease alone or without information.