Conference to support Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers

MARQUETTE– Over 5 million people are affected by Alzheimer’s disease in American and taking care of people with dementia can have many challenges.

One on–going conference came to Marquette hoping to provide support for those struggling with the disease and those caring for someone struggling with the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association held their eighteenth annual Caregivers Conference at Northern Michigan University today. Organizers say the conference is day to educate patients of Alzheimer’s Disease and caregivers so they are more prepared to deal with the disease

The conference covered many subjects from medicine safety to helping care for the spiritual needs of those affected by the disease.

“I think one of the biggest hurdles with Alzheimer’s and dementia is realizing that Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging,” said Lindsay Brieschke, Director of Public Policy for the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapters, “so today’s conference is really helping to break that stigma and to educate the community.”

“These conferences are amazing because you bring people together, one, everyone learns because you hear from experts,” Said Dr. Hank Paulson, Keynote speaker and Director of the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center, “but two you meet other people who are trying to solve problems just as you are in your own work.”

If you or someone you know was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Dr. Paulson says a healthy and active lifestyle paired with good diet and sleep is one of the best ways to keep your brain going strong.