For the Tomahawk Leader

RHINELANDER – A program developed by the Alzheimer’s Association® to help family and friends become more comfortable with difficult dementia-related topics will be held in Rhinelander this month.

The Dementia Conversations program will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Oneida County, 100 W. Keenan St., Rhinelander, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

The program will focus on several topics, including:

• Why it is important to talk to one’s doctor about concerns about changes to memory, thinking and behavior as soon as they are noticed.
• How to encourage someone who is reluctant to talk to their doctor about memory concerns to do so.
• Strategies for how to talk to someone when there are concerns about their ability to drive safely and to develop a plan for when “retiring” from driving becomes necessary.
• The importance of making legal and financial plans for the future.
• The necessity of planning ahead, learning about community resources and developing a supportive care team.

“Alzheimer’s disease affects more than six million people in the United States,” a release from the Alzheimer’s Association said. “It is the most common form of dementia and causes memory, thinking and behavior problems that interfere with daily living. However, the earliest signs are often dismissed as part ‘getting older’ and the conversation with family and friends about those changes can be challenging and uncomfortable.”

To learn more about this program or to register, contact Julie St. Pierre at 715-352-4091 or [email protected].

Individuals can also register by reaching out to the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 or www.bit.ly/3Fh8bSe.