ST. GEORGE – Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society is offering a 10-week class free to registered participants that will provide a benefit for those with early stage memory loss or dementia diagnosis and their care partners to help them function better and function longer.  A group of highly trained and qualified presenters will be providing the tools and resources necessary to participants as they face the challenges of memory loss illnesses.

“There are seven stages of dementia,” Alzheimer’s and Dementia Society Executive Director LuAnn Lundquist said. “The first one is where the disease process is evident in brain pathology, but few symptoms are evident.  Stages two through four are very important stages to recognize and be active in maintaining brain health as well as making preparations and decisions for the future. After stage four many of those opportunities are limited.”

The class will help those people with an early diagnosis plan for their future. It is a 10-week series that is meant for the person with memory loss and their primary care partner. Professionals in the community will provide presentations on matters of importance to the group and provide connections to available resources. These include presentations in legal and financial preparation, pharmaceutical and alternative remedies, brain health and nutrition. Within the second hour the participants attend either a brain builder activity group or a care partner training and support group.

“We have really seen a lot of success in the past with clients who have attended this course,” Lundquist said. “Alzheimer’s and dementia can seem overwhelming but, with this course, our clients walk away feeling better prepared and empowered to face the future”.

Symptoms of memory loss can be caused by several completely reversible conditions. It is important to quickly see a doctor to rule out those conditions. If the diagnosis is an illness, such as Alzheimer’s disease, there are things that can be done in the early stages to help the person function better and function longer. There are also proactive decisions that give voice to the person with memory loss in the future. It is important to face this life event early. Being in denial during the early stages can make a family miss the opportunity to potentially improve the situation.

The class will start for preregistered participants on Feb. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon at the St. George Senior Center on 245 North 200 West.  To register, contact the Alzheimer’s & Dementia Society at 435.319-0407 or email [email protected].

Event Recap and Resources

What: 1o-week early stage memory loss classes

When: Feb. 19 and recurring tuesdays, 10 a.m. to noon

Where: St. George Senior Center, 245 North 200 West, St. George

Contact and registration: 435-919-0407 / Email [email protected]

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Email: [email protected]

Twitter: @STGnews