Presented by Dana Schrager, OTR/L and Robert Festa, PT, DPT, GCS from VNA Health Group. Changes in communication, mobility and cognition present many challenges for those with dementia and their caregivers. This engaging and practical program for family caregivers will explore how speech, occupational and physical therapy can provide help through a person-centered approach that enhances independence and overall quality of life for persons with dementia while also supporting caregivers.

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia can be a very overwhelming experience. Often, caregivers neglect their own well-being because they devote so much time to the responsibilities of day-to-day caregiving. This program examines caregiver stress and offers coping strategies to become a healthier caregiver.

Behavioral changes in Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia can pose concerns for family caregivers. As the disease progresses, behavior often becomes the primary way people with the disease communicate their needs. Learn why people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia experience behavior changes, what those behaviors mean, and how to cope when behaviors are challenging.

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people with the disease lose their ability to use words to communicate. Join us to learn how to improve communication at each stage of the disease, including how to recognize behavior as a form of communication. Topics will include how to identify verbal and non-verbal messages to connect with the person living with Alzheimer’s disease.