Alzheimer's, caregiving to be focus of series hosted by WorkLife

August 11, 2011

The Alzheimer's Association is bringing an educational series, Living with Alzheimer's, to campus, hosted by WorkLife Programs and designed to provide valuable information to both those who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers.

Living with Alzheimer's is divided into three units by stage, and each unit has multiple sessions.

Early Stage Alzheimer's Disease for People with Alzheimer's and Their Caregivers
Sept. 6, 13, 20 -- 6-8 p.m. Stewart Center, Rooms 218A/B
For people with Alzheimer's, the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease is life-changing and leads to many questions. "What will this mean for me and my family?" "How do I plan for the future?" "Where can I get the help I need?" This program is an interactive three-part program where participants can hear from others who have been where they are. Discussion will include what they need to know, what they need to plan and what they can do to navigate this chapter of your life.

For caregivers, this series describes the symptoms of the early stage of Alzheimer's disease; explains the legal, financial and resource planning that needs to be done; and explains the various components of a care team and how to work successfully with each component during the early stage of the disease.

Middle Stage Alzheimer's Disease for Caregivers
Oct. 11, 18, 25 -- 6-8 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 204
In this series, caregivers will learn the symptoms and care needs associated with the middle stage of Alzheimer's and learn about the relationship changes that occur in this stage. Ways to maximize safety, prepare for emergencies and access respite care will be discussed, as well as effective ways to provide personal care and manage challenging behaviors.

Late Stage Alzheimer's Disease for Caregivers
Nov. 8 and 15 -- 6-8 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 204
This two-session series will focus on the late stage of Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers will learn effective ways to communicate, connect and provide daily care. The program will also cover late-stage care options and explain how to access and evaluate them.

Purdue employees and their spouses/same-sex domestic partners will register for this offering by going to www.purdue.edu/worklife and logging in with their career account and password. The program is also open to the community.