Resources for the diagnosis and care of seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Provides education and training programs throughout Maine and a round-the-clock telephone Helpline for information, consultation, referral services and care management services.
Programs include geriatric and geropsychiatric consultations, geriatrics evaluation and management and a special care dementia unit.
Q: I am the primary caregiver for my husband, who has just recently been diagnosed with dementia. I feel that his symptoms are already getting worse.
I have recently retired and we have had some quality time together, but I need to know more and could really use some support.
I’m sure there are others out there with the same issues. How do I get connected?
-Polly in Cape Elizabeth
Director of Community Services at the Southern Maine Agency on Aging
A:Several agencies offer classes to help people who are caring for someone with dementia or Alzheimer’s. For instance, the Family Caregiver Support Program offers a six-week course called Maine Savvy Caregiver. The class will teach you more about how dementia affects your loved one, as well as strategies for how to reduce stress and take care of yourself, and how to communicate more easily with your loved one.
To find out more and get a schedule of classes, call the Southern Maine Agency on Aging at 1 800 427-7411. The Alzheimer’s Association also is another resource for caregivers in this situation; they may be reached at 772-0115.
Email us at [email protected] with your questions. We’ll find an expert who can offer advice and post their response here.
Visit The Challenge of our Age on Facebook to talk with other seniors and caregivers and share advice about issues you’ve faced.
