“Everything (was most helpful). I came for an overview and found all information extremely useful.”–EasyLiving Alzheimer’s Workshop attendee
EasyLiving/Aging Wisely held its first Free Alzheimer’s Workshop on Friday, September 12, 2014 with Alzheimer’s and Related Disorders Certified Trainer, RN Marilyn Fratello. The class focused on the skills needed to understand Alzheimer’s and differentiate it symptoms from normal aging, how to communicate effectively with persons with Alzheimer’s and answered questions from those who attended.
If you didn’t have the chance to attend, here are a few facts you might not know about Alzheimer’s and memory loss:
- Significant changes in memory and cognitive functioning are not a normal part of aging. If you notice more than an occasional memory slip, it is a good idea to get screened for possible memory disorders (and other reversible causes such as medication side effects, underlying infection and more).
- Alzheimer’s risk increases with age, but younger people do get Alzheimer’s disease. There are an estimated 200,000 people in the U.S. under age 65 with early-onset Alzheimer’s.
- There is no guaranteed prevention for Alzheimer’s disease, since it seems a variety of risk factors are involved. It is wise to practice good “brain health” though: being physically active; eating healthy foods including fresh fruits, vegetables and fish; keeping your brain challenged; reducing stress, keeping an eye on your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol levels; avoiding traumatic brain injury; and keeping socially active. Most of these lifestyle choices are also great for other areas of your health. Many different things have been pinpointed as possible causes, from aluminum to aspartame and flu shots, but nothing has proven conclusive. The same goes for supplements and herbs for prevention.
For a quick guide to Alzheimer’s, download Aging Wisely’s free memory loss fact sheet. It offers concise terminology definitions and a list of symptoms (contrasted with normal aging).
Feedback from attendees at the Alzheimer’s workshop was excellent. They appreciated that the informative workshop (including handouts and with two available CEU credits) at no cost. EasyLiving will again be offering this Free Alzheimer’s Workshop on Friday, November 14, 2014. Be sure to reserve your seat soon. Space is limited and available on a first come, first served basis.
Next Alzheimer’s Workshop:
Date: Friday, November 14, 2014
Time: 10 am to 12 noon
Location: Training Classroom
1180 Ponce De Leon, #701
Clearwater, Fl 33756
CEUs: 2 credits (certificate given at end of class)
RSVP: Online form (or call 727-447-5845)
On October 25th our team will be gathering for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Pinellas County. We encourage you to consider participating and supporting this important cause! You can contact us for more information or check out the website for more details.
If you or a loved one is facing concerns about memory loss, our Senior Care Consultant is always here to help! Call us any time at 727-447-5845!
