Almost 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s.  In 30 years, that number is expected to rise to 14 million. But when one woman or man is diagnosed, that one becomes the most important person in the world for that family.

“Caring for a family member or friend who has Alzheimer’s is a daunting task,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources.  “The Alzheimer‘s journey takes patience, flexibility and lots of support.  Focusing on the needs of the caregiver is just as important as focusing on the needs of the person with Alzheimer’s.  Giving good care means taking care, too.”

Aging and Disability Resources, a Pierce County government program, will host a new series of its “Oh My Gosh – Now What?” seminar beginning Sept. 14.  The six-part series of discussions is designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, families, caregivers and others focusing on the initial journey of memory loss.  The seminar will cover the warning signs and symptoms, managing behaviors, the disease progress, legal concerns, financial issues and local resources.  All sessions will be held online from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Advance registration is available at 253-798-4600 or 800-562-0332.

People can participate in any or all of the discussions, which are free.  The schedule:

• Sept. 14 – “What is Dementia? What are the warning signs?”
• Sept. 21 – “How does the disease progress? What should I expect?”
• Sept. 28 – “How do I start the conversation? How do I cope with the shock?”
• Oct. 5 – “What are the typical moods and behaviors? How do I manage them?”
• Oct. 12 – “How do I pay for care? What are the legal things I should do?”
• Oct. 19 – “Where can I turn for help? What are the resources I can rely on?”

The sessions will be led by a case manager with Aging and Disability Resources who specialize in help to individuals and families coping with memory loss.

Additional information about the series is available at 253-798-4600.