One of Iowa’s leading experts on dementia research Elaine Eshbaugh will discuss living with or caring for someone with dementia during a free event at 10 a.m., Tuesday, May 16, at Quartet Senior Living, 3150 Glenbrook Circle S., Bettendorf.
Ms. Eshbaugh, who also is an author and professor of gerontology and family services at the University of Northern Iowa, will discuss how diseases of the brain that cause dementia can change the way a person experiences the world, including how they see, taste, smell, hear and touch, according to a news release. Participants will learn how to interact with people with dementia in ways that promote a positive quality of life.
“Our goal is to help communities — including the Quad Cities — across Iowa become better equipped to support people living with dementia and their caregivers,” Amy Gutknecht of Quartet Senior Living said in the release. “A dementia-friendly community is one that is informed, safe and respectful of individuals with the disease, their families and caregivers. It also provides supportive options that foster quality of life.”
According to statistics from the Alzheimer’s Association, at least 66,000 people are living with dementia in Iowa. This number is expected to grow to at least 73,000 by 2025.
“As we see the number of people affected by dementia increase, it’s so important that we raise public awareness,” Ms. Gutknecht said. “Our hope is that conversations, like this upcoming talk by Dr. Eshbaugh, will help to inform and educate — which is a key first step.”
For more information, call (563) 202-5295 or visit here.
