For many, the language associated with dementia, Alzheimer’s, cognitive decline and other related terms might be confusing. Those of us working in situations that have required continued education in these areas sometimes forget that for the general public, the verbiage we throw around might be just a confusing jumble of letters if a definition is not included to help them understand what these terms mean. In the case of caregivers for a loved one with dementia, it is particularly important that they understand what they are dealing with. Having proper information can give caregivers more confidence in their ability to assist their loved ones experiencing progressive decline caused by a disease of the brain.
This link to the Alzheimer’s Association site gives a brief definition of the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. If you’d like more in-depth information about dementia, Interfaith Caregivers offers a Dementia Friends presentation that is designed to help with understanding dementia and how we can all learn to support our friends and neighbors experiencing it. You can contact our office at 507-526-4684 for more information or to sign up for a class.
Merry, Caregiver Consultant with Interfaith Caregivers
Interfaith Caregivers 