Title: Prepare to care- what every adult needs to know about Alzheimers/dementia before and after it strikes home

Biography:

Bobbi Carducci is a Caregiver Advocate, Support Group Leader, Author and National Speaker on Caregiver Issues in the U.S. In-home caregiver for seven years for father-in-law with multiple comorbidities, including, Lewy Body dementia and schizophrenia. Author, Confessions of an Imperfect Caregiver and Caregiver You Are Not Alone.

Abstract

According to the Alzheimer’s organization, at present one in three seniors will die from some form of dementia and the numbers are expected to double or triple in the next ten to fifteen years. As the numbers of people needing care increases the need for in-home caregivers will follow. Beds in hospitals, nursing homes, and memory care facilities will fill and the costs will increase.

Adults in their thirties, forties, and above need to know what is coming in the next ten to fifteen years and how important it is to begin to prepare now. 

This presentation will include:

Alzheimer’s and Dementia – So much more than a memory problem.

• The difference in memory loss between normal aging and Alzheimer’s or one of the many other forms of dementia.
• Traumatic brain disease and the effects on behavior.

Financial and personal impact of dementia on the entire family.

• Creating a care team before it is needed.
• The need for long term care insurance.
• Power of attorney or guardianship?
• Home care or residential care? There is no wrong answer.

How to Resist Trying to Manage the Unmanageable and Ease Tension at Home

• Suggestions on how respond to the often confusing and upsetting dementia behaviors.
• What to Do When You Don’t Know What to Do.

Where to Go for Help

• Caregiver support groups
• Caregiver conferences
• Dementia Care Homes