Every 65 seconds in America, someone develops Alzheimer’s Disease. While 5.8 million Americans currently live with the disease, by 2050 the number is expected to rise to 14 million. Without a cure, the number of unpaid caregivers will also climb far above its current 16 million.
Pamela Garofolo, corporate manager of Tapestries United Methodist Communities (UMC), will present two free educational workshops on Alzheimer’s and dementia at the Ocean City Free Public Library, 1735 Simpson Avenue. The first, “Diagnosis and Decisions,” will be held on Wednesday, April 17, from 6-7 p.m.
Attendees will learn about the signs, benefits of a proper diagnosis, staging, and prognosis. Ms. Garofolo will also cover the meaning of treatment, as well as treatment options, including comfort care.
The second workshop scheduled for Wednesday, May 15, from 6-7 p.m., focuses on “Making the Most of your Time Together.” Ms. Garofolo will talk about building upon practical tools for the caregiver’s toolbox, reality orientation vs. validation therapy, communication, distress, and finding joy.
“We are eager to share our knowledge and experience with the greater community and to have such great support and the resources of the Alzheimer’s Association,” Garofolo said.
United Methodist Communities at The Shores offers Residential and Assisted Living, Respite Care, Short-Term Rehab, Long-Term Care, Tapestries Memory Care, and Bridges Hospice and Palliative Care.
To schedule a personal tour, talk about how we can meet your specific needs, or obtain additional information, visit UMCommunities.org/TheShores or call Ryan Champion at 609-399-8505.
