Caring for an older adult with dementia requires more than just patience. It demands a certain resilience and nimbleness to successfully navigate the ups and downs and myriad challenges that come with each new day. A new dementia training series called “Developing Dementia Dexterity” on three upcoming Wednesdays seeks to help provide caregivers with the tools they need to be more effective in their role.
Offered by the Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress (UPCAP), the free three-part online series will be offered on April 27, May 4 and May 11 from 2 to 3 p.m. EST and is open to caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
“Whether you are a seasoned dementia caregiver, family or friend, this series will provide a better understanding of dementia and the impact it has on the person with the disease,” the organization writes. “Learn how to connect with and provide support to individuals with dementia.”
The training series will cover a specific topic at each session:
- Wednesday, April 27 – “The Dementia Overview for Family and Friends” – This class provides an overview of the disease and how it impacts more than memory, as well as offers strategies for communication and daily interaction.
- Wednesday, May 4 – “Planning Activities for Persons with Dementia” – This session will provide ideas for engaging activities that promote “contented involvement” and how to effectively plan day-to-day activities for an older adult with dementia.
- Wednesday, May 11 – “Understanding Behavior and Support Needs of Persons with Dementia” – This session will take a closer look at behaviors of someone with dementia, as well as how to identify triggers that can cause challenging situations or behaviors.
While the sessions are free, attendees must be able to access the classes with a computer, tablet or smartphone with internet access and an email address.
Registration ends on April 24. Learn more at the UPCAP website, and register for the sessions through the group’s Eventbrite page.
