An upcoming workshop aims to help New West caregivers reduce the physical and psychological toll of caring for a family member with dementia.
Kim McKercher, an Alzheimer Society of B.C. support and education coordinator for New Westminster and the North Fraser region, said the physical and psychological toll on family caregivers is considerable. The society notes that knowing the signs of caregiver stress and finding ways to get support are important for families and for those they’re caring for.
To help families on the dementia journey, the Alzheimer Society of B.C. is bringing its free Family Caregiver workshop to New Westminster. Participants will learn strategies for taking care of someone with dementia and taking care of their own health to ensure they are prepared to continue proving care for their family members.
“We offer practical techniques and strategies that caregivers can begin using immediately,” McKercher said.
Family Caregiver workshops run from March 21 to April 11 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Century House, 620 Eighth St. Topics to be covered include:
* Understanding Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
* Effective and creative ways of facilitating communication with a person with dementia.
* Understanding behaviour as a form of communication.
* Self-care for the caregiver.
* Planning for the future.
Pre-registration is required by calling 604-298-0780 or emailing [email protected]. Information on Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias is available at www.alzheimerbc.org.
