Confronting dementia can create hope for caregivers

By Ginna Young

It’s not easy when a loved one is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s. The patient becomes confused, scared, sometimes violent and memories begin to fade.

While that’s hard enough on a spouse or child, who are now the patient’s caregiver, the strain of constant care is another matter entirely.

That’s why there’s the Respite for All Program, a national, faith-based, volunteer-driven, intergenerational movement, designed to provide a connection for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s.

A free educational event is offered this fall, to all faith communities, civic organizations, healthcare providers, and professional and family caregivers. The event takes place Thursday, Sept. 28, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Jacob’s Well Church in Chippewa Falls.

“It’s for everybody,” said Cornell resident Kathy Swanson, member of the Chippewa Valley Dementia Coalition.

By holding the Creating Hope-Confronting Dementia with Meaningful Action session, it’s the hope of Respite for All co-founder Daphne Johnstone, that training can be provided for the community to act as a help for caregivers. That way, caregivers can leave the home to get a cup of coffee, take a walk or go to the store to get groceries, without needing to take their charge with them “Which isn’t always easy,” said Swanson, adding that some people can’t afford to hire help with the memorychallenged patient. Once a community partner is on board, a program typically starts with two days a week, meeting from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in local places of worship. All the volunteer pool needs is a vision and direction on how to help those in their community.

Through the respite vision, volunteers can learn to communicate more effectively with those with dementia, providing encouragement and engagements.

To learn more and to register for the educational event, visit adrcevents.orh or call 715-839-4735, by Friday, Sept. 22.