Pitt-Bradford to Host Alzheimer’s Disease Series
2 min readBRADFORD, Pa. – The University of Pittsburgh at Bradford’s Division of Continuing Education and Regional Development will host a four-part Alzheimer’s disease series starting Wednesday, Feb. 23, in downtown Bradford.
Jill L. Oliver, speech language pathologist at Bradford Manor, and Debbie McKee, director of activities at Sweden Valley Manor of Coudersport, will lead the sessions. They have expertise in behavior management, dementia care and working with the older population.
Each session takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the second-floor classroom of the Seneca Building on Marilyn Horne Way, and the cost is $15 per person for each session.
The first session, “Preparation for the Alzheimer’s Journey,” will be held Wednesday, Feb. 23. Oliver and McKee will look at challenges facing those with early stages of dementia. The instructors will also give advice on a daily routine and how to develop a strong support system. Oliver and McKee will also use American Medical Association statistics to trace the anatomical changes as the disease progresses.
The second session, “Empowerment for Success during the Early to Middle Stages of Dementia,” will take place Wednesday, March 9. Oliver and McKee will explore strategies for coping with difficult behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s. They will also discuss the anatomical changes that affect behaviors and communication.
The third session, “Exploring Home Care, Nursing Home Placement and the Special Care Unit,” will be held Wednesday, March 23. Oliver and McKee will cover finding a facility for a loved one. How to make visits more meaningful when visiting a person with dementia will also be discussed.
The fourth session, “Who Cares for the Caregiver?” will take place Wednesday, April 9. Oliver and McKee will discuss help for those who have been the support system. They will also cover how to cope after a loved one passes.
For more information or to register, contact Continuing Education at (814)362-5078 or reach@pitt.edu.
For disability related needs, contact the Office of Disability Resources and Services at 814-362-7609 or clh71@pitt.edu.