UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — In the United States, more than 6 million individuals are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and about 11 million unpaid caregivers are supporting them.
As communities observe Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in November, Penn State Extension seeks to remind the public of available resources to support those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Extension joined forces with the Alzheimer’s Association to provide four educational programs that cover the basics of Alzheimer’s and dementia to help those who are facing a diagnosis and inform anyone who wants to learn more about these conditions.
Organizers will offer these webinars on multiple dates and times:
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Participants will explore the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, learn what happens in a brain affected by Alzheimer’s, learn about risk factors and the three general stages of the disease, and receive other helpful Alzheimer’s resources.
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause memory, thinking and behavior problems that interfere with daily living. This program helps people recognize common signs of the disease and know what to watch for in themselves and others.
Participants will learn about typical age-related changes, common signs of Alzheimer’s, and how to approach someone about memory concerns. The webinar also will highlight other helpful Alzheimer’s resources.
Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body
Individuals can adopt lifestyle habits at any age to help maintain or improve health. These habits also may help keep brains healthy during aging and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. This workshop covers four lifestyle habits that are associated with healthy aging: cognitive activity, physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, and social engagement.
Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal and Financial Planning
Conversations with family members showing signs of dementia can be challenging and uncomfortable. Fear or a lack of awareness may accompany these conversations, resulting in delays affecting the entire family. This webinar will cover everyday difficult decisions to discuss with loved ones and tips that can assist in making those important conversations less stressful.
These webinars are free, but attendees must register to get the access link. Those who register also will receive a link to watch the recording of the program.
For more details and to sign up, visit the Penn State Extension website.