Monday, October 5, 2015

Learn About Alzheimer's Disease

     To help understand Alzheimer’s Disease and to learn how it affects communication, Koochiching Aging Options and ACT on Alzheimer’s are hosting a free public presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association the evening of October 15. The presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the theatre of Rainy River Community College, 1501 Highway 71 in the Falls.
            The presentation is for anyone who would like to know more about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Those who attend will learn about the symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease and other types of dementia and how they affect the brain.
            Addressed in the presentation will be risk factors, diagnosis and states of the disease as well as treatment and hope for the future. A second part of the presentation will address communication, behavior and memory loss and how the disease impacts communication. The prevention of negative reactions during communication will be discussed.
            The presenter will be Deborah Richman, vice president for education and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. She has presented at the national, state and local level for a variety of professional health related organizations and community groups. She has provided project consultation and training in the areas of communication and memory loss, dementia related behaviors and therapeutic program development as well as training for direct care staff in residential care settings. Among other qualifications, she is certified by the Alzheimer’s Association to offer Foundations of Dementia Care.
            Alzheimer’s Disease and related forms of dementia are affecting increasing numbers of families in Koochiching County and across the country. Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common form of dementia. Estimates are that one in nine persons age 65 and older has Alzheimer’s Disease or a related dementia. Numbers affected are expected to increase as the Baby Boomers age.

            Call Koochiching Aging Options at 218-283-7030 with questions.