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The Upper Peninsula’s population is older than many other regions of the state of Michigan. Because the population trends are older than in other areas, there is a likelihood that a neighbor, friend, or family member suffers from one or more symptoms of dementia. UPCAP says that in the United States an estimated 10 percent of the population older than 65 does already experience some effects of dementia.
“The younger age groups the percentages are a little bit less. Because age is a risk factor. The older we get, the more likely we are to develop one of these diseases that cause dementia. S it’s very prevalent in the Upper Peninsula. And this is a free workshop where people can get some really good information.” – Della Juliano, Health and Caregiver Educator, UPCAP
UPCAP will hold a series of presentations designed for caregivers of those affected by dementia at the end of the month. Providing care for those with Alzheimer’s disease or suffering symptoms of dementia can require a lot of time, energy, and resources from a caregiver. During the presentation medical experts will provide information on what dementia is, and how symptoms tend to progress over a long period of time.
“And it can be very difficult on the family because they are seeing their loved one change right before their eyes. It’s not a quick change. It’s a slow progressive change. So sometimes we don’t even see the symptoms for a while.” – Della Juliano, Health and Caregiver Educator, UPCAP
The weekly online presentation given over three weeks will also include different care provider strategies to engage in cognitive activity. As well as different ways caregivers can practice self-care. UPCAP does ask that those interested in taking part in the Dementia Caregivers series please pre-register online by October 15th.
Registration link for the UPCAP Dementia Caregivers Workshop Series
