Free dementia caregiver program offered in Wood County, here's how to sign up

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio — The Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities is hosting a free Alzheimer’s Association program this fall. 

Attendees of “The Empowered Caregiver: Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors” will learn how dementia can change a person’s behavior, how to identify possible triggers and provide person-centered care approaches to address behaviors.

“Caring for someone living with dementia brings a unique set of challenges and rewards,” said Pam Myers, senior director of programs for the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio and Central Ohio Chapters. 

As the disease progresses, people living with dementia may have trouble communicating their needs and feelings and their ability to use words could be lost altogether.

“With the right help and support, caregivers can be empowered to provide quality care while managing their own well-being,” said Myers.

There are 236,200 Ohioans that are age 65 and older living with Alzheimer's disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association 2024 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. A total of 414,000 Ohio caregivers provide 624 million hours of unpaid care each year, valued at $11.4 billion.

The program takes place on Thursday, Oct. 17, from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities offices located at 1912 E. Gypsy Lane Rd. in Bowling Green, OH.

Pre-registration is recommended. To register, call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. 

Those concerned about themselves or a loved one can call the Alzheimer's Association Northwest Ohio Chapter at 419-537-1999 to schedule a care consultation.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s or other related dementia, or to access free tools and resources, click HERE.

Free educational programs and support groups are offered monthly throughout Northwest Ohio. To find scheduled local programs, click HERE.