Welcome & Introduction

Welcome to the Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Course for Family Caregivers!

Chapter 1: Let’s Talk Law

In this chapter we will: • Examine why establishing an estate plan matters • Define legal document options for an estate plan • See that funeral preplanning is part of a good estate plan • Consider the benefits of having a will or a trust

Chapter 2: Medical Matters

In this chapter we will, • Define “dementia” • Identify the four most commonly diagnosed dementia types • Examine “sundowning” • Review the tests used to establish a dementia diagnosis

Chapter 3: Financial Considerations

In this chapter we will, • Examine the choices and costs of long-term care • Define the difference between Medicare and Medicaid • Discuss Medicaid eligibility • Review options when only one spouse needs long-term care

Chapter 4: Family Relationships

In this chapter we will, • Examine pre-planning as a way to reduce conflict • Look at the role of a mediator • Discuss having negative feelings toward the one needing care • Explore the option of forgiveness

Chapter 5: Safety

In this chapter we will, • Identify secure mobility aids • Examine the safety of elders continuing to drive • Discuss keeping the dementia patient protected in their environment • Consider when a long-term care community might be best

Chapter 6: Caregiver Self-Care: Avoiding Burnout

In this chapter we will, • Determine why self-care is so important • Discuss how caregiver self-care will benefit the care recipient • Examine what healthy self-care looks like • Recognize and manage “anticipatory grief”

Downloadable Resources