Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is much more than a one-person job. It takes a dedicated team of family members, friends, medical professionals and experts.

Join us for the next Town Hall Forum and learn how to assemble your team. You’ll also discover where to go to pull together the information and resources you need to make yourself a successful and confident leader of that Caregiving Team.

When:    Thursday, February 23, 2012 from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Where:  Lake San Marcos Resort Conference Center at 1025 La Bonita Drive in San Marcos, CA

RSVP:    Call 1-888-MEM-LOSS or register online at Town Hall Forum Registration.

ActivCare at Bressi Ranch provides a residential environment and compassionate care for those with memory loss. The community features themed walls designs and corridors provide visual cues for way finding. Secure courtyards afford residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors while all paths lead back to the common areas. And, a specialized activity program engages residents and provides a sense of purpose boosting self-esteem.

Learn more about the community here. Or call to schedule a tour (760) 603-9999.

There are medications which mitigate some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.  These medications cannot reverse the progression of dementia, but they can help cognitive brain functioning in some cases. Medications may also improve mood or psychological symptoms associated with dementia.

Aside from medication, there are activities and therapies that can certainly help someone suffering form dementia. Some of these are listed below:

Cognitive Stimulation - Cognitive stimulation may improve a patient’s memory, language and problem-solving ability. Examples include problem solving activities, recreational activities, brain exercises, or social conversation. These interactions can also improve their general quality of life.

Regular Physical Activity - People with dementia often experience a decline in mobility. Activities such as walking, dancing, and swimming may slow down this decline. Physical activity may also improve mood-related issues such as depression.

Sensory Stimulation - External stimulation in any form such as sounds, smells, lights, music, massages, etc. create neural responses, keeping the brain active. Another benefit is improving mood and participation through positive association with smells, sights, and textures.

Reminiscence Therapy -  Those suffering from mild-to-moderate dementia often have good long-term memory. Reminiscence therapy involves talking about past experiences with people to bring these positive experiences into their current thoughts.

Animal-Assisted Therapy - Quality time spent with an animal may be beneficial for individuals with dementia, especially those experiencing psychological issues such as agitation or aggression. Interacting with an animal may alleviate negative emotions. This also may improve motor restlessness and promote physical activity through walking with a dog.

Caregivers can also take measures to assist memory by simplifying the daily routine of individuals with dementia. For instance, provide a written schedule of their daily routine placed in a location where it will be noticed and easily read. Also, written reminders for chores such as checking the mail, taking out the trash, general cleaning and hygiene, and locking doors is important. It is important to label commonly used items and make sure things like keys, glasses, medications, and other commonly used items have a prominent place.

While these efforts don’t provide a solution for Alzheimer’s and dementia, they can certainly help the quality of life for individuals with dementia and those around them.  As early symptoms progress a person will probably require a higher level of care in the form of residential homes specializing in memory care. Alzheimer’s care communities such as ActivCare can take care of the daily needs of your loved one, so they can enjoy life, just in a different place. 

Alzheimer’s has no cure. It affects one in eight people over the age of 65 and nearly half of all of those 85 and older.

Early detection, developing a care plan, and care options outside the home and helpful along the caregiving journey.

The Toll on Family Caregivers Need for a National Plan

Space is limited for this free seminar. Please RSVP early by calling (760) 603-9999.

Click here for more information and directions.

Alzheimer’s: Defining the Disease, Preparing for Changes

Basics of Medicare Medi-Cal 2011 – Todd Shetter

When is it Time to Place – Maureen Jones, RN

Please call (619) 543-4700 today to reserve your space at the Town Hall Forum.

Town Hall Forum Flyer April 2011

We look forward to hearing from you.

If you would like to review the presentations from our speakers, click on the Town Hall Forum tab above and you can review the files.

Mark your calendar for the next Town Hall Forum on April 28, 2011 in San Diego.

Call 888-MEM-LOSS to reserve your seat today.

Click here for more details.