Upcoming Education Topics

 

December 9: Responding to Dementia Behavior

Some dementia behaviors can present real challenges for caregivers to manage. Join us to learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Presented by Alzheimer’s Association Minnesota-North Dakota

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January 13: Assistive Technology and Independence

Assistive Technology (AT) can be as simple as hearing aids or as high-tech as special speech recognition software, enabling more independence and reducing the need for long-term care. Learn more about AT, what tools and resources might be available to you as a caregiver. 

Presented by Sue Redepenning, a Program Director for a program  that provides AT for people with disabilities. Sue is an occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience.

 

February 10: Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. Learn about the impact of Alzheimer's; the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia; stages and risk factors and current research and treatments.

Presented by the Alzheimer's Association

 

March 9: Caregiving & Our Changing Identity

Caregiving creates complicated layers of stress and it’s easy to lose our sense of self. Recognize your own self-worth and work to name your stressors and guilt in this healing workshop.  

Presented by Dee Dee Haines, a Bereavement Coordinator, Supervisor of Spiritual Care & Music Therapy at Interim Healthcare and Hospice.

 

April 13: Healing Words: An Introduction to Poetry Writing

Poetry slows us down and can facilitate self-reflection, conjure up old memories and provide space for recovery and healing. We’ll address topics like caregiving, illness, and loss through simple writing exercises and prompts.

Presented by Lucia LoTempio. Lucia has a MFA in Poetry, is a published poet and author, and currently serves as a Program Manager at Minneapolis’ beloved Loft Literacy Center.

 

May 11: Family Dynamics and Shifting Roles

This interactive workshop will examine our roles and family dynamics when caregiving and faced with inevitable life transitions. There will be ample time for questions and discussion. 

Presented by Dr. Kirsten Lind Seal, PhD, LMFT., a practicing licensed marriage and family therapist, seen regularly on WCCO’s Midmorning “Relationship Reboot.”

 

June 8: Ombudsman Program 101

Learn more about the role of the Ombudsman for Long Term Care office in Minnesota, who they serve and how they assist in advocating for residents. We’ll discuss how the program advocates for Minnesota residents in Long Term Care facilities. 

Presented by Anna Solowiej, Supervising Attorney at the Minnesota Disability Law Center/Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid office.