County offering Alzheimer's educational series for caregivers

Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources is hosting a six-part series “Oh My Gosh – Now What?” to support individuals with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, families, caregivers and others focusing on the initial journey of memory loss. Attendees will learn the warning signs and symptoms, how to manage behaviors, and disease progression. Participants will also be provided education about legal concerns, financial issues and local resources available.

All sessions will be held virtually from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesdays beginning Sept. 22. from noon-1 p.m. Sessions are free and open to the public, but advanced registration is required. Register online at https://piercecountywa.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_fbaxUs6ST4qGcu7en_mlgA, or by calling the Aging and Disability Resource Center at 253-798-4600. People can attend one or all of the discussions.

The schedule for sessions includes:

• Sept. 22 — “What is Dementia? What are the warning signs?”
• Sept. 29 — “How does the disease progress? What should I expect?”
• Oct. 6 — “How do I start the conversation? How do I cope with the shock?”
• Oct. 13 — “What are the typical moods and behaviors? How do I manage them?”
• Oct. 20 — “How do I pay for care? What are the legal things I should do?”
• Oct. 27 — “Where can I turn for help? What are the resources I can rely on?”

Each session will be led by case managers from the ADRC, Kris Sawyers-Dowling and Jessica Girard, who specialize in providing practical help to individuals and families coping with memory loss. For more information call the ADRC at 253-798-4600.