Carla, Dementia Care Specialist 

How Can Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) Help?

The Dementia Care Specialist (DCS) offers valuable education for family members and the community, provides essential support, connects caregivers to services, and helps find solutions to challenging situations. The goal of the Dementia Care Specialist Program is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers while living at home. With DCS guidance, you can gain a deeper understanding of brain health, learn more about dementia, foster awareness and acceptance for those living with dementia, and discover ways to support caregivers of individuals with dementia.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is not a single disease, but a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive abilities such as memory, thinking, reasoning, language, and planning. It encompasses a variety of conditions, some of the most common being Alzheimer’s Disease, Vascular Dementia, Lewy Body Dementia, and Frontotemporal Dementia.

What is a Brain Check-Up?

A Brain Check-Up (or Memory Screen) involves three simple activities to assess brain function. While not a diagnostic tool, it can detect early changes in memory and cognition. We recommend everyone over 60 get an annual Brain Check-Up to establish a baseline, even without concerns. As we age, it's natural for our brain to undergo some changes. However, it’s important to distinguish between the normal effects of aging and the onset of a brain disease like dementia. While some cognitive changes are expected with age, dementia is not a normal part of the aging process and should be cause for concern. Contact the ADRC to schedule (it's free).

Helpful Links and Resources:

• Bridging Chippewa County Newsletter (Check out our monthly Dementia section)
• Facebook Group ("Dementia Care and Resources of Chippewa County, WI")
• Advanced Care Planning (Guide to resources for people living with Dementia and their care partners)
• Dementia Resource Guide (Chippewa County's local guide)
• Dementia and Memory Loss (DHS Resource Library)

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Calendar of ADRC Dementia-Related Events: