People who care for an individual with Alzheimer’s or other dementias are faced with heavy responsibilities unlike other caregivers. Sometimes the work can become overwhelming, especially when new and difficult behaviors and patterns come to the surface.

“Alzheimer’s & Caregiving: Just A Chance To Talk” is an open forum for caregivers to share with other caregivers and professionals the challenges that they experience and brainstorm possible solutions.

The forum will be held Tuesday, April 23 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at MultiCare Adult Day Health, 6442 Yakima Ave., S. in Tacoma. There is no cost. The event is jointly sponsored by Pierce County Community Connections Aging and Disability Resources, MultiCare Adult Day Health, and Cascade Park Communities.

“The dedication that caregivers for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia is incredible, said Aaron Van Valkenburg, Manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources.” “But dedication can only take you so far. Having a chance to sit down with others and talk about emerging behaviors and care needs is a crucial part of being a good caregiver and staying balanced over the long term.”

The agenda for “Alzheimer’s & Caregiving: Just A Chance To Talk” is simply to provide an opportunity for a give-and-take exchange with other caregivers and professionals who work with individuals with Alzheimer’s on a regular basis. The goal of the forum is that caregivers will learn about alternative approaches that have worked for other caregivers and that might increase the wellbeing of their care recipient.

For more information call the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at 253-798-4600.