Speaker’s Bureau

A speaker is available to community groups, churches, etc. — regarding Alzheimer’s-related issues. Please call if you’d like a speaker for your group, club, civic organization, church, and more.

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana offers confidential telephone service that provides emotional support, disease information, caregiving tips and support, and referral to local community services. Call 888-303-0180 or 574-232-4121.

Normal Age-Associated Memory Loss Slowdown of the ability to process new information (e.g., learn a new card game Slowdown of short-term memory (e.g., where did I put my keys, glasses?) Slowdown of search and retrieval functions (e.g., forgetting names, words Dementia The loss of cognitive or intellectual function, such as thinking, remembering, and reasoning, so severe that it interferes with … Read More

What is Alzheimer’s Disease? NOT a normal part of aging (senility, hardening of the arteries, or organic brain syndrome were terms used years ago to describe what we now call dementia) The most common form of dementia A progressive, degenerative neurological illness Marked by gradual onset Destroys brain cells, results in structural and chemical changes. Brain cells are not replaced. … Read More

How is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed? Currently, there is no one clinical test that can determine whether a person has Alzheimer’s disease. There seems to be some hope on the horizon that a test will be developed in the future. Many conditions exist which exhibit similar symptoms to Alzheimer’s; some are treatable and reversible, some are not. Several tests must be … Read More

There are many models used to explain the disease process, some using only 3 stages with others using 7 or more stages.  Each is useful in it’s own way.  We will present a model with 4 stages indicated. As with all models, this information is provided for instructional purposes only.  Persons with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may exhibit symptoms from … Read More

Coping Techniques Take a break or “time out” when you get frustrated or upset. Let it go. Talk with someone to let out feelings, and seek advice. Laugh – look at the lighter side! Know that misplaced items will turn up. Use calendars, watches, and daily lists as reminder aids. Get help with tasks that are causing anxiety or frustration. … Read More

Although I cannot control the disease process, I need to remember I can control many aspects of how it affects me and my relatives. I need to take care of myself so that I can continue doing the things that are important. I need to simplify my lifestyle so that my time and energy are available for things that are really important at this time. I … Read More

Environment Routine, Structured, Consistent (e.g., same things at the same time of day) Tranquil, Calm (e.g., limit number of visitors at one time) Continuity (e.g., furniture in the same place, routine schedule, memorabilia within sight) Free of distractions, avoid over-stimulation Avoid under-stimulation (e.g., use music) Orientation / visual cues (e.g., calendars displaying one day at a time) Contrasting colors for … Read More