Rhinelander program to explore conversation topics related to Alzheimer’s, dementia

RHINELANDER – Next week, the Alzheimer’s Association will host a program designed to help family and friends of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia become more comfortable with difficult topics.

The Dementia Conversations workshop will be held at the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Oneida County, 100 W. Keenan St., Rhinelander, on Tuesday, March 18, from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

A release from the Alzheimer’s Association said topics to be covered will include:

• 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 nearly seven million people in the United States,” the Alzheimer’s Association stated in a release. “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.”

Registration for the program is requested.

To register, contact Julie St. Pierre at 715-352-4091 or jstpierre@alz.org; call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900; or visit www.bit.ly/DCONVORHI.