Memory- and fall-related issues are focus of upcoming programs

Understanding memory-related issues and preventing falls are the topics of upcoming senior health programs at Mesa County Libraries.

All programs are open to the public at no charge. Here is the schedule:

● Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia
2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 25, at the Palisade Branch, 119 W. Third St., Palisade
Debra Bianchi, MPH, MS will provide information about the detection, causes and risk factors, disease stages, and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Bianchi is the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter’s Western Slope Regional Director, delivering professional and family caregiver education, care planning, and support group services. This event at the Palisade Branch Library is co-hosted by Mesa County Libraries and the Alzheimer’s Association.

● Understanding Fall Prevention
1 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction
Understand what you can do to decrease your risk of falling. Learn about major risk factors of falling and simple steps to reduce the risks. Find out how you can prevent falls and keep you or your loved ones safe. Presenter Nathan Stinnett holds a doctorate in physical therapy and works for Community Hospital, specializing in balance training and general fall prevention. Presenter Nina Incorvaia is an occupational therapist and certified lymphedema therapist at Community Hospital.

● Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction
When someone shows signs of dementia, it’s time to have a challenging and uncomfortable conversation about changing behaviors. This program provides tips for breaking the ice with your family so you can address some of the most common issues that are difficult to discuss: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.

Presenter Debra Bianchi, MPH, MS serves as the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter’s Western Slope Regional Director, delivering professional and family caregiver education, care planning, and support group services. This event is co-hosted by Mesa County Libraries and the Alzheimer’s Association.

● Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior
6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, at the Central Library, 443 N. 6th St., Grand Junction
Behavior is a powerful form of communication and is one of the primary ways for people with dementia to communicate their needs and feelings as the ability to use language is lost. However, some behaviors can present real challenges for caregivers to manage. Learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and develop strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Presenter Debra Bianchi, MPH, MS serves as the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter’s Western Slope Regional Director, delivering professional and family caregiver education, care planning, and support group services. This event is co-hosted by Mesa County Libraries and the Alzheimer’s Association.