Learning Series  For People with Alzheimer's Disease or a Related Dementia and their Families and Friends Available courses include: First Steps for People with Dementia and Caregivers Next Steps for Families and Friends Care Essentials Options for Care Care in the Later Stages Course Schedules What is Dementia 1 - Slides from Lanark County What is Dementia 2 - Slides from Lanark County What is Dementia 3 - Slides from Lanark County First Steps for People with Dementia and Caregivers In this series, individuals newly diagnosed with a dementia and their caregivers will be given the resources needed to more fully understand their diagnosis and the changes that are likely to occur.  This series will also offer participants an opportunity to share and connect with others embarking on a similiar journey. Topics to be discussed include: What is dementia? Memory loss, changes to the brain, and resulting behaviours Coping strategies Drugs, treatment, and research Future planning - legal and financial matters Community resources and support systems available Next Steps for Families and Friends This series will offer family members and friends caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease (or a related dementia) an overview of dementia.  The topics discussed in this series will be much the same as those listed above under First Steps. Care Essentials This series will offer family members and friends caring for people with Alzheimer's disease problem solving strategies, approaches for communication, and available avenues for support.  All of which can strengthen their ability to provide care.  Topics to be discussed include: The progression of dementia Understanding behaviour Day to day care Community Resources and a personal story Return to Top Options for Care This series is to help family members and friends caring for people with Alzheimer's disease evaluate their current care giving needs and explore other possible care options, including long term care.  Topics to be discussed include: Where to turn when care needs increase Long Term Care - how the system works Coping with change - how to make the transition. Care in the Later Stages This series is designed to promote understanding of what to expect in the later stages of dementia.  The series will also explore how participants can provide comfort to the person with dementia as well as review the experiences of grief and loss. Topics to be discussed include: Natural course of the later stages How to recognize pain and distress How to provide care that promotes dignity, comfort, and quality of life Course Schedules Download latest schedule:  Belleville-Hastings-Quinte  Register online. Kingston Leeds-Grenville Prince Edward County Lanark County - Please go to our events page to view Dates, Times and Topics for First Link Series. Please note that these courses operate by demand, therefore, if you do not see a current schedule for the course you are interested in attending, please contact your local chapter and we will be happy to accomodate your request.   Return to Top