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The Greater Illinois Chapter offers community and family education programs throughout the year. These programs are geared for family members, diagnosed individuals, and interested members of the community. Many of these programs are free of charge, but some conferences and workshops do have a registration fee attached to them.
Certificates of attendance and continuing education credit are not available for community and family education programs, as these programs are not intended for a professional audience. Professionals are instead encouraged to attend programs offered through the Professional Training Institute.
Memory Loss 101
Cost: Free
Memory Loss 101 offers a basic overview of memory and how it works, focusing on both normal age-related memory changes and more serious changes that should be evaluated by a physician. Participants will learn about the ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, what Alzheimer’s disease is, how it progresses, the importance of diagnosis, current treatment options, and available community resources.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
Caregiver Workshop: Building Confidence in Caregiving
Cost: $10.00
A basic understanding of Alzheimer's disease is recommended prior to taking this course. Please sign up for a free Memory Loss 101 course offered in your community prior to attending this Caregiver Workshop.
The Caregiver Workshop focuses on teaching family members how to use creativity and flexibility when interacting with and caring for individuals with memory loss. Three primary areas of care will be addressed in the workshop:
1. Tips and techniques for accurate communication
2. How to help the person with memory loss keep their sense of purpose in life, and how to help minimize frustration and anxiety
3. Self-care: Minimizing caregiver stress, rejuvenating the body, mind and spirit, and knowing where and when to get support In addition, plenty of time will be set aside for questions, discussion, and sharing.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
Audio Conference
Cost: Free
Are you too busy to attend an educational program? Audio Conference is designed for those who aren’t able to attend a program outside the home or office. Once registered, you will receive through the mail, a toll free telephone number with instructions. On the day of the conference you will call-in and join many others who are seeking the latest information on memory loss.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
Now What Was I Saying?
Cost: Free
Are you concerned your memory isn’t as sharp as it once was? If so, this program is for you. Now What Was I Saying begins with a description of how memory works and provides information about normal age-related changes versus serious memory problems. Common myths about the brain and memory will be discussed, and memory enhancement tips and tricks will be shared. Evidence-based research into brain health and wellness will be presented; with practical tips given that can help you maintain a healthy brain.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
The Noon Network
Cost: A suggested donation of $5 is appreciated
The Noon Network is held on the 1st Wednesday of every month at the Alzheimer's Association, Joliet Office, from noon – 1pm. Anyone who wants to learn more about Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, and discuss various community needs is welcome to attend. You’ll also have opportunity to learn more about the Alzheimer's Association services meet our staff, visit our lending library, and network with others.
Lunch is provided by The Loyalton & Courtyard of Joliet. Seating is limited, kindly call in advance to secure your attendance. Alzheimer's Association, Joliet Office: 815.744.0804
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Cost: $35
Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. You will benefit from this class whether you are assisting with the care of a parent, spouse, or friend who lives at home, in a nursing home, or across the country (no professional caregivers, please). Your one-time fee of $35 covers the cost of materials for this six-week series.
This program was developed by Legacy Caregiver Services in Portland, OR and has been shown to: reduce caregiver guilt, anger and depression; improve caregiver self care and communication skills, and increase community service use.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
Know the 10 Warning Signs
Cost: Free
This program focuses on the 10 warning signs of serious memory problems, gives a basic overview of Alzheimer’s disease, and covers risk factors, diagnosis, and the benefits of early detection. The program includes video footage that addresses the fears and myths associated with dementia. Individuals featured in the films include real people who are living with the early stages of dementia, and their families.
Dates and locations: See the Calendar
