The art of communication is generally acknowledged as being a critical component of everyday life for most of us. As we grow and mature, we learn to express ourselves appropriately as well as to identify who we really are. Best of all, the gift of clear communication helps us relate meaningfully, to one another.
Communication is more than just talking and listening, however.
It involves understanding and interpreting, and when a person’s abilities start to change as a result of being diagnosed as having Alzheimer’s Disease or other forms of dementia, one’s communication is affected. This sometimes causes caregivers as well as the person being cared for, to risk experiencing misunderstandings and mutual frustrations.
Research is showing that there are ways that all of us should strive to remain proactive in keeping our brain cells in good shape.
“Heads Up for a Healthy Brain: An introduction to brain health,” is presented as an information session concerning the importance of well-rounded health, placing emphasis on the senior years, and tips on integrating measures of awareness into daily life.
In this session participants will learn more about Alzheimer Disease along with research-based advice on how to reduce your risk.
The Alzheimer Society of BC and Selkirk College Nakusp Campus offer this evening workshop on Thursday, March 31 at 7 p.m. Advance registration is required and a fee of $15 is levied in order to help cover the cost of materials.
A two-part workshop on the subject of “Dementia/Alzheimer Caregiver Education,” designed for those caring for someone who is diagnosed with having Alzheimer Disease or a related dementia, is also being presented and takes place Friday, April 1 from 9a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Alzheimer Society and Selkirk College (Nakusp) will discuss “The Link Between Brain and Behaviour.” Education and understanding of this brain disorder are vital to caregivers when seeking to meet the challenges being experienced.
Topics will include learning to understand the difference between Dementia and Alzheimer Disease, communication and behavioural strategies, the effects of stress and loss, planning for the future, and also the importance of taking care of yourself in order to avoid caregiver burnout.
Family members or friends who are helping the person with dementia at home, within a long-term care facility, attending an adult day program or living at a distance, will find these workshops of value in learning to cope.
The pre-registration fee of $25 covers both morning and afternoon sessions, while $15 is charge for just one, three-hour session.
Seating is limited, so pre-registration for all of these workshops is important, call Selkirk College (Nakusp) at 250-265-4077. For more details on these or other related programs and services call the Alzheimer Society of BC toll-free at 1-877-452-6788 or email lhoskin@alzheimerbc.org.
