The Birches Hosts Dementia Educational Series for Caretakers

Every four seconds someone in the world is diagnosed with dementia, with over 7.7 million new cases occurring worldwide each year. But despite the increasing prevalence of dementia, there is still a lack of understanding about the disorder.

Because accurate information and resources are crucial to the millions of people caring for a loved one with dementia, The Birches Assisted Living in Clarendon Hills is hosting a free dementia educational lecture series that is open to the public.

Daniel Kuhn, author of the book Alzheimer’s Early Stages, will deliver the first lecture on September 17 at 7:00 pm. Kuhn, an expert in the dementia field for over 40 years, will discuss the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of early stage Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, and will provide insights into risk reduction. Additionally, Kuhn will address practical challenges facing diagnosed individuals and their families and offer solutions for these challenges.

The educational series will continue on October 16 at 7:00 pm with a “Virtual Dementia Tour” by Tami Neumann. Neumann is the executive producer and host of “Conversations in Care,” a radio program focused on dementia caregiving. In her virtual tour, Neumann will help participants see the world through the eyes of a person with dementia. After the tour, she will lead a group discussion about the experience.

The final lecture in the three-part series will take place on November 19 at 7:00 pm and will help caretakers understand how to interact with and connect to those with dementia. Led by the Alzheimer’s Association, the lecture will provide insight into dementia’s effect on communication and behavior. It will also teach participants techniques to make visits with their loved ones more comfortable and meaningful.

Although The Birches’ dementia educational series will take a temporary hiatus in December and January, it will resume in February with other important dementia-related topics that help caregivers provide the best possible care to their loved ones. For more information about the series or to register for a lecture, contact Jackie Raschke at 630-581-7350. Registration is required.