Purdue University, in conjunction with Purdue University Press, offers online course to look beyond the challenges of Alzheimer’s

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. —Purdue University, in conjunction with FutureLearn, is launching a massive open online course based on the bestselling book, “Creating Moments of Joy Along the Alzheimer’s Journey: A Guide For Families and Caregivers,” written by Jolene Brackey and published by Purdue University Press.

Brackey has a unique approach to caring for and communicating with people with short-term memory loss. The new MOOC, titled “Creating Moments of Joy for People with Alzheimer’s,” will present salient aspects of Brackey’s approach. The course will focus on practical tips to ease the daily struggles of those living with Alzheimer’s in specific situations. Participants will learn how to look beyond the challenges of the illness and focus on creating the best possible life for those living with the disease.

Content for the MOOC is based on the fifth edition of the book. The fifth edition has been expanded to address more issues in dementia care, from early warning signs through late stages, and draws on Brackey's more than 20 years of work with elderly communities, caregivers and families. Brackey’s work has sold over 100,000 copies to date.

“The best teachers, I have found, are the people with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers,” Brackey said. “Knowing this information can reach people worldwide is exciting. My hope is that what they learn will create a better day for anyone on this journey. ”

In the book, Brackey offers practical advice and a unique vision for families and caregivers: that we all will soon look beyond the challenges of Alzheimer's disease and focus more of our energies on creating moments of joy.

 “From what we’ve seen, Jolene’s insights have been of great help to families and caregivers throughout North America,” says Peter Froehlich, director of the Purdue University Press. “We’re proud to be her publisher and excited to see what social learning in a MOOC setting can do for people all over the world.”

In the course, which is offered on http://www.futurelearn.com/, a social learning platform, participants will get practical tips to ease the daily struggles of Alzheimer’s for those living with it, and those helping them. Ultimately students will learn how to look beyond the challenges of the disease and focus on creating the best possible life for those living with Alzheimer’s.

“It’s fantastic that Jolene Brackey is able to share her insights and experience with learners worldwide,” says Simon Nelson, chief executive at FutureLearn. “Alzheimer’s touches many, so it’s vital for people to be able to gain comfort from others’ experiences and advice. We hope that Jolene’s unique insight - encouraging others to focus on creating moments of joy for those with Alzheimer’s - will be reassuring to the families, caregivers and friends of those with the disease, as well as giving them a refreshing perspective on a very challenging illness.”

The online course will open Nov. 6 to coincide with National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in the U.S. It is free and open to anyone in the world. As with most courses on FutureLearn, learners can pay a fee to receive additional benefits.

To learn more or sign up for the course, go to “Creating Moments of Joy for People with Alzheimer’s.” The book is available from the press and all major retailers. 

Writer: Megan Huckaby, 765-496-1325, mhuckaby@purdue.edu 

Source: Peter Froehlich, 765-494-8251, pfroehli@purdue.edu