Below are descriptions of the different classes we offer in this series. You can attend any or all of them. The classes are designed for caregivers of people with cognitive impairment/dementia. To register, scroll to the bottom of this page. We also offer an Activity Enrichment group for your loved one during this class in a separate room.  You will be prompted to answer questions related to bringing your loved one on the Registration Form.

Our current series begins on September 23, 2024. All of the below classes will be held from 1:30pm – 3:00pm at the Camino Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 3520 Carson Rd, Camino, CA 95709.  Please call us at (530)621-7820 and ask for the Dementia Connection if you have any questions.

In these workshop-classes, you will learn:
• How to understand dementia and its impact on behavior choices
• De-escalation techniques
• Effective communication strategies

Additional Information:
• These workshops are free and open to the public.
• Light refreshments will be served.
• Respite care may be available with advance registration.

Idea! Approach for Supporting Challenging Behaviors
Caring for someone with dementia can be an enriching experience, but it often comes with a unique set of challenges, particularly when faced with unexpected behaviors. This workshop empowers caregivers with the knowledge and tools to navigate these complexities with empathy and understanding.  This class will explore:

• The underlying causes of issues such as agitation, aggression, getting lost, and repetitive statements.
• Developing skills to identify triggers and underlying needs associated with challenging behaviors to help you move beyond reacting and into meaningful responses.
• Interpreting nonverbal cues and communication attempts within the context of dementia.
• How to adjust approaches to discover effective communication strategies and de-escalation techniques to manage challenging symptoms calmly and confidently.
• A variety of intervention methods tailored to specific behaviors and triggers, finding the approaches that work best for your loved one and situation.

Addressing Personal Care Complications
For those caring for a loved one with dementia who struggles with personal care tasks like bathing, dressing, or toileting. To support those facing resistance or challenging behaviors that make these situations stressful.  This workshop, designed specifically for family caregivers, will equip attendees with the knowledge and skills to navigate these challenges with compassion and understanding.  This class will teach:

• Personal care assistance: Explore practical tips and tricks for assisting with bathing, dressing, toileting, and other personal care tasks, while respecting your loved one’s dignity and independence.
• De-escalation techniques: Learn practical strategies for managing resistance and challenging behaviors calmly and respectfully.
• Effective communication strategies: Discover communication techniques that foster cooperation and build trust with your loved one.

Supporting Mood and Sexuality Complications
Caring for someone with dementia can be incredibly rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges. While memory loss is often the first thing that comes to mind, emotional and behavioral changes like anxiety, agitation, and sexual disinhibition can be equally distressing for both the person with dementia and their loved ones.  This class will explore:

• The factors that contribute to anxiety, agitation, and sexual disinhibition in dementia, gaining insight into how the disease affects the brain and behavior.
• Techniques to reduce anxiety and create a sense of security for people with dementia, exploring relaxation methods, sensory interventions, and environmental adjustments.
• How to identify triggers and implement strategies to manage restlessness, pacing, and verbal or physical outbursts.
• Understanding and practical approaches to respond to inappropriate sexual behavior with respect and sensitivity, while supporting everyone’s safety and comfort.

Home and Community Safety Issues
Caring for someone with dementia often involves navigating a complex landscape of safety risks, both within the home and in the community. From late-day confusion and wandering to falls and kitchen dangers, these concerns can be a constant source of worry and stress for caregivers. In this class, learn:

• Insights into how cognitive and physical changes associated with dementia can increase vulnerability to accidents and injuries.
• Strategies to manage symptoms, create a predictable routine, and optimize the sleep environment.
• Techniques to limit safety issues, secure the home environment, and implement safe walking practices.
• Identification of fall hazards, modifications for the home environment, and promoting safe mobility practices.
• Strategies to adapt the kitchen for safety, manage cooking risks, and provide alternative meal options.
• Practical tips for safe outings, using identification tools, and navigating public spaces with your loved one.