The Alzheimer's Association, Maine Chapter conducts and sponsors many educational programs and workshops to assist caregivers and communities.
All educational programs are the property of the Alzheimer's Association and are presented only by its authorized training staff and licensed representatives of the Association.
For additional information about a variety of educational topics: bill.kirkpatrick@alz.org or 207.772.0115.
Brief Descriptions of Education & Training Programs
Know the 10 Signs
For: Anyone interested in learning more about the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
The purpose of this workshop is to provide the general public with a greater understanding of the difference between age-related memory loss and dementia and what to do if they have signs of Alzheimer’s disease. This presentation was designed for an audience interested in learning more about the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. It is for anyone experiencing signs of memory loss or other unaccountable changes in behavior that makes them think that something is different or is wrong with their health. Other audience members may attend because they are worried about a family member or friend. Members of the audience may believe they have symptoms and want to learn more. Others may not be worried at all. At the workshop, you will learn: How to tell the difference between Alzheimer’s and typical aging; steps to take if you recognize a warning sign in yourself or someone you know; the process to receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis; why early detection is crucial.
The Basics: Memory Loss, Dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease
For: Community members and anyone who would like to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
The Alzheimer’s Association’s Memory Loss, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease: The Basics program is designed to provide people with the basic information that everyone needs to know about memory loss issues and what they mean for all of us. Learn about: Symptoms and effects of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia; How Alzheimer’s affects the brain; Causes and risk factors; How to find out if it’s Alzheimer’s disease; The benefits of early detection; How to address a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease; Stages of the disease; Treatment; Hope for the future; Ways the Alzheimer’s Association can help.
Living with Alzheimer’s: For People with Alzheimer’s
For: Those who are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is life-changing and leads to many questions. What will this mean for me and my family? How do I plan for the future? Where can I get the help I need? Join us for this three-part program where you will hear from others who have been where you are. We will discuss what you need to know, what you need to plan, and what you can do as you navigate this chapter of your life.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers
For: Caregivers of people with early or middle or late stage Alzheimer’s disease.
When someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, friends and family have many questions. What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made? What resources are available to help? As the disease progresses, new questions reflect growing needs for skills, programs and services. Join us for this series of programs that provide answers to the questions that arise in the early, middle and late stages of the disease. Hear from those directly affected and learn what you need to know, what you need to plan, and what you can do at each point along the way.
Living with Alzheimer’s for Younger Onset Alzheimer’s
For: Families who are dealing with younger onset Alzheimer’s disease.
When someone under 65 is diagnosed with Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, the first reaction is often shock or denial. This doesn’t happen to someone so young…does it? What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made for everyone? What about work? What resources are available to help? Join us for this series of programs that provide answers to the questions that arise for people concerned about Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Hear from those directly affected and learn what you need to know, what you need to plan, and what you can do to ease the impact throughout the course of the disease.
Legal and Financial Planning
For: Families and individuals who are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.
Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease is a workshop presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, for anyone who would like to know more about what legal and financial issues to consider and how to put plans in place. This program will cover information for families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Topics covered will include: Making legal plans that fit your needs; Legal documents you’ll need and what they mean for all of you; How to find legal and financial assistance; Practical strategies for making a long-term plan of care; Tax deductions and credits; Government programs that can help pay for care.
Understanding the Person with Dementia
For: Professionals and staff who work in agencies that serve people with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or a related dementia.
This workshop provides an overview of dementia and brain function, the use of an assessment tool to assist in helping staff structure activities and introduces the concept of behavior as communication. The goals of this program are to create an understanding of how damage to the brain impacts function, promote understanding how to tailor tasks and activities to disease stage and to provide practical strategies for accommodating “responsive” behaviors.
