Sign up opens for Alzheimer’s education class

The University of Missouri Butler County Extension is hosting the second class in the free series of Dementia and Alzheimer’s (10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s).

For those seeking answers, the second session will be from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11, and will be available both on Zoom and at the Butler County University Extension Office in Poplar Bluff.

Last month, the class filled within a day and a half, said John Fuller, MSW, human development and family sciences specialist with extension.

In-person registration is limited to 10 people.

“If interested, please register for this class before the slots fill up again,” he said. “If we do get a large enough response, we will schedule this class again this month.”

Science is learning there are things you can do to help when it comes to dementia, Fuller said.

Attendees will learn about typical age-related changes, common warning signs of Alzheimer’s, how to approach someone about memory concerns, early detection, the benefits of a diagnosis and the diagnostic process, and Alzheimer’s Association resources.

“The series, which I have scheduled to do a new topic each month at the same time on the second Thursday of each month, is really about answering those questions when it comes to dementia, and it is so beneficial for the caretakers or potential caregivers to gain first-hand knowledge,” Fuller said. “They may already be going through the stages with a loved one. We even talk about in a later class on how to have those difficult discussions with loved ones, or how you may handle certain situations out in public so the person does not feel embarrassed.”

A different topic on dementia will be offered on the second Thursday of each month until May. The classes will be held at the same time and venues.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Anyone interested, may register by calling the extension office at 573-686-8064 or email Fuller at fullerjc@missouri.edu.

The University Extension is partnering with the Alzheimer’s Association.