As people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias progress in their journey and the ability to use words is lost, families need new ways to connect.

Leaders of the monthly caregiver support group at Freedom Home Care are offering a free program presented by the Alzheimer’s Association called “Effective Communication Strategies.”

The education program will show that communication is more than just talking and listening. Participants will learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia.

“It’ll talk a lot about how communication changes through those different stages of dementia. You typically talk about three different stages, so they’re giving people strategies to help communication for each one of those different stages,” community outreach and owner of Freedom Homecare Christine Nessler said.
 
The Caregiver Support Group meets once a month from 6:30-8 p.m. on the first Thursday of each month at Crossview Covenant Church in Mankato.

This Thursday after the communication program, Freedom Home Care will have a shortened meeting for anyone looking to learn more about joining the group, they do ask you to RSVP for this event.

Find out more about the event.