Day 280 of 365 - Support for the Challenges of Dementia

I recently came across a very informative booklet in a waiting room, which greatly impressed me regarding resources available in my community.  It is called Dementia Program Guide.  This very well designed magazine guide is a coordinated effort of four different organizations.  It's purpose is to inform those diagnosed with various types of dementia, their care partners and families, of support resources available to them.

I was aware of a few services that exist, such as adult day programs and support groups for spouses.  Several residents of our apartment building use those services regularly.  But, there is much more than that.

There are quite a variety of resources tailored to different stages.  For the categories of mild cognitive impairment, early stage dementia, middle stage dementia and late stage dementia, there are educational sessions, support programs and recreation opportunities.

As we age, our thinking processes slow down, due to changes in the brain.  Lots of people have age related memory loss, such as not being able to remember the name of an acquaintance, or occasionally having difficulty finding words.  Signs of dementia are more that that.  Family and friends may notice changes like not being able to recall recent events, frequent word finding issues and forgetting more often.  Cognitive and other testing is available to assess whether a person has mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's Disease or another form of dementia.

Once a person has been assessed, they and their caregivers have an opportunity to participate in various programs.

Educational programs for both the person diagnosed and their family can teach about what dementia is, coping strategies, resources and support systems.  There is a provincially standardized curriculum for learning series designed to provide the right information at the right time.  These usually run as 4 - 6 weekly sessions.

Caregivers also have a variety of class choices to learn about things like reducing personal stress, communicating effectively in challenging situations and navigating the difficulties of behavioral changes.  Other classes teach strategies for helping a person with dementia to continue engaging in meaningful activities, and adapting to changes in personal care.

Support groups exist across all stages to help make connections with others, alleviate loneliness and provide a support network.  These are facilitated by professional social workers.  Outreach programs by telephone, provided by trained volunteers, are also available for those unable to attend classes.  Individual counseling sessions are always available from social workers by appointment through the various organizations such as the Alzheimer Society.

There is also quite a variety of recreational programs available, ranging from art projects, to cooking, to gardening, to nature walks, to games activities, choir or sing along programs.  All of these are facilitated by skilled volunteers.

Then there are Day Programs and overnight respite programs which provide diagnosed individuals a stimulating range of activities and caregivers an opportunity for self care.  Transportation to and from these programs is also available.

I realize that each community will have its own range of services on offer.  However, I was truly impressed with the variety available currently.  As we age, it is more likely that we will be affected by dementia either directly or indirectly.  Thus, it's good to know what resources are available to us to navigate that experience.  It's reassuring to know that so much is being done to make that process easier.  To find out about services in your community, contact your Alzheimer Society or VON.