Information and education about dementia is very important for family caregivers.

I will present the first session entitled, “An Orientation to Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.”

As the community outreach coordinator for Alzheimer’s Association, I have a master’s of science in gerontology and a deep love for working with older adults and their families.

I facilitate a support group in Franklin the second Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m. In addition, I provide educational programs in the community.

The first session is intended to provide friends and family members of the individual who has dementia with a frame of reference for care giving and related decisions. Topics covered include what dementia really means, important steps to take after a diagnosis including legal and financial planning, and resources appropriate for the various stages.

Attendees will receive a copy of the chapter’s well-researched resource manual, “Getting Started.” It will be presented from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 27, at the auditorium of East Pavilion Long-Term Care Center in Franklin.

The session is free, however registration is required. Participants are invited to bring their own brown bag lunch to eat during the session. Drinks and dessert will be provided.

To register, call (800) 272.3900.

The next three months the topics, dates and time are as listed:

Aug. 17—Safety in the Home and Away, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sept. 14—Meaningful Activities Structuring the Day at Home, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oct. 19—Challenging Behaviors 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Register at least two business days before each program by calling (800) 272-3900 or sending an e-mail to mary.dziedziak@alz.org.