When Dementia Emerges: Caring for Patients, Families, & Communities //

The varied forms of dementia—including Alzheimer’s disease—afflict an estimated 7 million people in the U.S. Alzheimer’s Orange County recently estimated that more than 164,000 Orange County residents over the age of 65 live with dementia or mild cognitive impairment and nearly one in three seniors in the U.S. die with some kind of dementia. As anyone in professional caregiving knows, the disease processes are far more than cognitive, but rather, impact the emotional, physical, social, and spiritual worlds as well. In the early phases of dementia, patients, their families, and communities are deeply impacted and these impacts continue to worsen and grow in the ensuing years. This workshop compassionately weaves together the latest research and clinical wisdom about the various diseases we call dementia, illustrated by the presenter’s own journey with dementia in his practice and family.

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to…

• Explain the varied diagnoses of dementia (neurocognitive disorders) and explain the main differences between them
• Describe how normal bereavement responses are complicated by bereavement
• Utilize a framework for emotional support of individuals with dementia as they face their own losses
• Apply proven clinical strategies for coming alongside patients and families at varied stages of disease
• Access resources and ascertain their appropriateness for the individual and family

2 CEUs for nurses

A light breakfast will be provided