Nine days into 2009 the Alzheimer’s Association is offering a free Caregiver Class for Texoma families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or a related type of dementia.  Thanks to the Hilltop Haven Community, there will be morning refreshments and lunch for all who participate in the class. 

Susan Vincent of Hilltop said, “We are delighted to be the lunch sponsor for this class.  A number of the residents in our Memory Units came to us through the Alzheimer’s Association!”

Hilltop Haven is a Christian Care Centers, Inc. community which serves older persons in the region.  The Howard Retirement Apartments, Hilltop Haven Health Care Center, Hillside Rehabilitation and Christian Care Hospice are among the services provided.  The Health Care aspect of Hilltop has two specialized Alzheimer’s care units.  Susan Vincent of Hilltop will be available during the beginning of the class to respond to questions and provide literature about Hilltop Haven.

The Caregiver class will cover physical care, dealing with problem behaviors, ways to communicate effectively, and how to help insure the safety of a person with Alzheimer’s.  This class is from 9am to 3pm at the Reba McEntire Rehabilitation Center at 1200 Reba McEntire Drive in Denison, TX.  This learning opportunity is provided at no charge to for relatives of persons with Alzheimer’s or related dementias.  Paid professional caregivers are welcome, space permitting, for a $25 fee. 

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research.  The mission of the organization is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. 

You are invited to join the Association in the vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease.  Participation in an Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Class is an important way to educate yourself and be better prepared to care for a person with dementia. 

To register for the January 9, 2009 class, please call 1-800-272-3900.  For information on this or other opportunities in Cooke, Fannin or Grayson Counties, please contact Dianna.Niemann-Harris@alz.org or call the Alzheimer’s Association Texoma office at 903-416-1034.