Many caregivers cannot leave home due to caregiving responsibilities. You can participate in a web-based seminar — or webinar — from the privacy of your home. Join either live or view the archived version within a few day of the live webinar (in most cases). Our policy is to share only webinars that are offered free to our community; that reflect a broad, science-based point of view; and that do not present a single solution (whether medical, surgical or other intervention) to the topic under discussion. All times shown are Pacific Time. Here are webinars that may be of interest to caregivers in January 2020…
Tuesday, January 7, 11:00am-12:00pm
“10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s”
Program: Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause changes in memory, thinking and behavior that interfere with daily life. Join us to learn about 10 common warning signs and what to watch for in yourself and others. The one-hour webinar will cover typical age-related changes, common warning signs of Alzheimer’s, how to approach someone about memory concerns, early detection, the benefits of a diagnosis and the diagnostic process and Alzheimer’s Association resources.
Presenter: David Myers, Alzheimer’s Association Community Educator
Presented by: Alzheimer’s Association
Thursday, January 9, 11:00am-12:00pm
“Understanding Vision Impairment and How to Help”
Program: During this webinar, participants will gain a better understanding of vision impairment and its impact on the person. This presentation will describe visual changes that can be associated with dementia and common age-related visual conditions. Tips and services will be shared to help participants understand simple adaptations and services available to those with vision loss.
Presenter: Kendra Farrow, BA, MA, Research and Training Associate, Mississippi State University, National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision
Presented by: Help for Alzheimer’s Families
Tuesday, January 14, 11:30am-12:30pm
“Assisting with Activities of Daily Living in Dementia Care”
Program: This course covers six activities of daily living (ADLs) which become challenging as individuals with dementia progressively lose function and ability to carry out these tasks. Participants will learn how dementia impacts ability to complete ADLs and how to best assist with these tasks while maximizing the person’s autonomy wherever possible.
Presenter: Melissa Klaebm, DPT, Director of Education, Alzheimer’s Orange County
Presented by: Alzheimer’s Orange County
Wednesday, January 15, 10:00-11:00am
“Pets and Seniors”
Program: Research confirms that there are positive outcomes for older adults who regularly interact with pets. Many older adults find that pets can provide the companionship and love they desire as they age and can also reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. While pet ownership may be a benefit to many older adults, it can pose safety concerns for others. Regardless, there are ways that older adults can engage with animals and receive the benefits such as lower blood pressure, pain reduction, less loneliness and more happiness. Register for this web seminar to learn more about considerations for pet ownership and ways that older adults and family caregivers can interact with animals, even if they do not have an animal of their own.
Presenter: Lakelyn Hogan, gerontologist, caregiver advocate, Home Instead Senior Care
Presented by: Home Instead Senior Care, and the American Society on Aging
Tuesday, January 21, 9:00-10:00am
“Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body: Tips from the Latest Research”
Program: For centuries, we’ve known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science is able to provide insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.
Presenter: Phillip Bennett, Manager of Education and Community Volunteers, Alzheimer’s Association.
Presented by: Alzheimer’s Association
Wednesday, January 29, 11:00am-12:00pm
“Genuine Resilience is Closer (and Easier) Than You May Think”
Program: Resilience, or the ability to rebound from difficult or traumatic experiences, is the key to well-being. In the context of family caregiving, developing emotional skills for coping with stress is essential for long-term sustainability and quality care. The statistics on the harmful impacts of family caregiving are sobering, yet there are ways to maintain health and well-being.
Topics for the webinar include how to develop a mindfulness practice in a busy life, ways to use self-compassion when feeling overwhelmed and inadequate, and simple practices for maintaining healthy boundaries. This will be an interactive experience that will provide tools for developing a greater sense of peace and well-being. Time will be provided for questions and answers.
Presenter: Roy Remer, Executive Director, Zen Caregiving Project (formerly Zen Hospice Project), San Francisco
Presented by: Family Caregiver Alliance
Thursday, January 30, 9:00-10:00am
“Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning”
Program: When someone is showing signs of dementia, it’s time to talk. Often, conversations with family about changing behaviors can be challenging and uncomfortable. This program provides tips for breaking the ice with your family so you can address some of the most common issues that are difficult to discuss: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.
Presenter: Jami King, Alzheimer’s Association Community Educator
Presented by: Alzheimer’s Association