Annual seminar May 4 for caregivers dealing with dementia

Caregiving during the three key stages of Alzheimer’s disease will be the focus of a seminar May 4 at Edward Kelly Leadership Center, the Prince William School Division’s central office.  The symposium will be held from 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.  at 14715 Bristow Road in Manassas, VA. Participation is free. Refreshments and a box lunch will be provided. Seating is limited. RSVP to .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 703.766.9018.

This will be the third annual Prince William Area Dementia Caregivers Symposium sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter and Prince William Area Agency on Aging.

“Alzheimer’s is a journey, not a destination,” said Jane Priest, programs and services manager with the Alzheimer’s Association. “It’s critical that caregivers take an active role to learn how their lives may be impacted by a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. Education can be an empowering first step that can help caregivers understand what to expect so they can be prepared to meet the changes ahead and help their loved ones and themselves to live well for as long as possible.”

Alzheimer’s disease typically progresses slowly in three general stages — mild (early stage), moderate (middle stage), and severe (late stage). Since Alzheimer’s affects people in different ways, the timing and severity of dementia symptoms varies as each person progresses through the stages of Alzheimer’s differently. As the disease progresses, behaviors change—as does the role of the caregiver.

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s, a person may function independently – driving, working and taking part in social activities. Despite this, the person may feel as if he or she is having memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects.

The middle stage is typically the longest stage and can last for many years. As the disease progresses, the person requires a greater level of care, as damage to nerve cells in the brain can make it difficult to express thoughts and perform routine tasks.

In the final stage Alzheimer’s, memory and cognitive skills continue to worsen, significant personality changes may take place and individuals need extensive help with daily activities and personal care.

About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. It says its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. For more information, visit alz.org or call 800-272-3900.