September 21, 2021 – The challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia can seem daunting to the unprepared. On Sept. 30 and Oct. 19, join the Florida chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association for two “Lunch Time Learning” programs to help families navigate dementia caregiving for loved ones both near and far.
Both programs will feature Certified Care Manager Heidi Brown and Alzheimer’s Community Educator Louise Gallagher as guest speakers. The first program on Sept. 30 will address the benefits of geriatric care management. The second program will share five insightful tips for long-distance caregivers.
“When it comes to making senior care decisions for a parent or loved one, it can be incredibly intimidating,” Brown said. “A geriatric care manager, or aging life care professional managers, are trained health care professionals with a specialized focus on issues related to aging. We help families identify needs and find resources to meet those needs.
“Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful when family members live apart,” Brown added. “We have extensive training but have no emotional ties or prior family history to navigate. Acting as advocates and guides throughout the aging process, we help long-distance families be successful caregivers.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. Florida has the second-highest prevalence of the disease in the country, with more than 580,000 individuals battling the disease.
“Caregiving for someone with dementia can be all-consuming and also very challenging when families live apart,” said Bernice Pelea, program manager for the Alzheimer’s Association. “It truly takes a village, and having a care team in place can be a great source of comfort for family caregivers. A geriatric care manager is one option families have to ensure quality of care and successful caregiving, even when you live miles away from your loved one.”
“Resetting Roles: The Gift of Geriatric Care Management” will be held at noon EDT on Thursday, Sept. 30. “Five Tips for Long-Distance Caregiving” will begin at noon EDT on Tuesday, Oct. 19. Both programs will be hosted virtually via Zoom, and registration is requested. To register, contact the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 or visit bit.ly/ResettingRoles and bit.ly/AlzFiveTips.
Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call (800) 272-3900.
