Are you caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, have a family history of the disease or wish to become a paid sitter for a person with dementia? Do you enjoy learning new things, interacting with other people and sharing your story? Do you see yourself and/or loved ones at risk for Alzheimer’s disease? If your answer to any of these questions is “yes” or “maybe,” the Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Class May 13, 2008 in Gainesville is for you!
“Because many Alzheimer’s caregivers are isolated, we offer Caregiver Classes and Support Groups on an ongoing basis,” said Alzheimer’s Association Family Services Manager Dianna Niemann-Harris. The class, which goes from 9 AM to 3 PM, is a unique educational opportunity designed by and available only through the National Alzheimer’s Association. Participants will learn how to manage difficult behavior, ways to meet daily challenges, techniques for communicating, safety tips and how to care for themselves, the caregivers.
North Texas Medical Center Foundation is the supporting sponsor of this event in the hospital classrooms at 1900 Hospital Blvd in Gainesville. Morning refreshments and lunch will be provided by the Foundation.
“It is a delight to partner with NTMC to offer important community education,” Niemann-Harris said, “We are blessed in Cooke County to have the welcome and support of North Texas Medical Center in the vision of a world without Alzheimer’s.”
Dianna Niemann-Harris, who makes her home in Denison, is the full time Family Services Coordinator for Cooke, Fannin and Grayson Counties. Niemann-Harris, a two-year veteran with the Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Dallas Chapter, will present the class. The Alzheimer’s Association is at the forefront of education and research with the most current and useful information about Alzheimer’s.
The caregiver class is open to all interested persons. “One of the best things about the Caregiver Class is we continue to offer it absolutely free to families of persons with dementia and to volunteers!” Niemann-Harris stated. If space allows, healthcare providers are welcome in the class for a $25 fee.
Pre-registration for the Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Class is required. The class is March 12, 2008, 9 AM to 3 PM at Legacy Ridge, 2201 Country Club Drive, Bonham, TX. Interested individuals may register by calling the Helpline at 1-800-272-3900. Class size is limited, therefore early registration is encouraged.
Those with questions about the Caregiver Class, Caregiver Support Groups or other inquiries concerning Alzheimer’s please call Dianna Niemann-Harris at 903-416-1035 or 903-771-9471 or send Email to Dianna.Niemann-Harris@alz.org.
