Free 5 Session Course On Dementia

Symphony Square in Bala Cynwyd recently hosted a seminar about Alzheimer's Disease. The room was filled to capacity with caregivers and professionals, including nurses, educators, elder law attorneys, and family  caregivers. Since Alzheimer's affects approximately 13% of the population over age 65, and 40% of those over age 85, most were familiar with the disease. Despite the familiarity, nearly everyone learned at least one new fact during the seminar. Statistics about the disease, and it's devastating effects on seniors,  may be found here.   

The week following the presentation at Symphony Square I accompanied my spouse to attend the national convention of the Gerontological Advance Practice Nurse's Association in Chicago. Eavesdropping on some of the presentations, I learned about some of the new drugs and treatments for Alzheimer's, as well as more research conducted by nurse practitioners, hospitals, and others. 

One could easily spend weeks learning about the condition that affects so many seniors. Now, for those who have the time and/or incentive to devote that time, Coursera is offering a five session course on the topic so you can learn to be a more effective caregiver or professional.

Dr. Laura Gitlin, a professor at Johns Hopkins University (and formally from Jefferson University in Philadelphia), and Nancy Hodgson, an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins, are offering a massive open online course (M.O.O.C.) on dementia management through Coursera.  The 5-session course is free and begins October 14.  Click here for more information and to register. If you are a caregiver I encourage you to join me in taking the course. 

Stay well until the next post.

Bob Gasparro

Bob Gasparro is an Elder Attorney.  He can be reached at Robert.Gasparro@lifespanlegal.com or (484) 297-2050. Comments to this post, and ideas for future posts are welcome.