Caregiving for a person with dementia can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. As the disease progresses, family members may be required to provide different types of support, from assisting with financial decisions to helping with everyday tasks.
"At times this may feel overwhelming," Lori Kelly, one of the Alzheimer Society of BC's two local support and education co-ordinators, says in a press release from the society.
But there is hope.
"By educating yourself about dementia and learning caregiving techniques, you have the ability to maintain quality of life for both you and the person you are caring for," added Kimberly McKercher, the other Tri-Cities co-ordinator.
That education can begin for Coquitlam families with the society's free Family Caregiver Series, which runs on five Mondays beginning Oct. 20 and running through Nov. 17 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Glen Pine Pavilion, 1200 Glen Pine Crt., Coquitlam.
The sessions provide practical techniques and strategies that caregivers can begin using immediately. Participants will gain an understanding of dementia, communication and behaviour as a form of communication.
Pre-registration is required. For information and to register, contact Lori Kelly or Kim McKercher at 604-298-0780 or [email protected] or [email protected].
More information on Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, as well as resources for living with their impact, are available by visiting www.alzheimerbc.org.
