Griffin Hospital in Derby offers support to caregivers dealing with dementia

Dr. Lionel Lim, director, Griffin Faculty Physician’s Geriatric Assessment Center, will kick off a series of monthly talks for family caregivers of a loved one with dementia Sept. 8 at Griffin Hospital in Derby. / Submitted photo

DERBY - Griffin Hospital and the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter will host a series of monthly talks for family caregivers of a loved one with dementia starting Sept 8.

“This series will provide valuable information, resources and support for those caring for a person with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia,” said Maria Tomasetti, South Central Regional Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter. “The program will help caregivers to more effectively adjust care plans as their loved one’s care needs change.”

The Family Caregiver Series will start with a presentation and Q&A by Dr. Lionel Lim, director of Griffin Faculty Physician’s Geriatric Assessment Center, from 5:30-8 p.m. Sept. 8 at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St.

Lim will discuss diagnosing dementia, treatments and research. Tomasetti will also review the Alzheimer's Association's programs and services.

On Oct. 6, Tomasetti will present communication tips and effective strategies for handling behavioral challenges.  These tools can help caregivers make quality connections with people with dementia and maximize the quality of life for their loved ones.  

On Nov. 10, a panel of health care professionals will review how caregivers can take care of their own physical and mental well-being as well as community resources and family dynamics.  

On Dec. 8, Elder Law Attorney Judith Hoberman, of Shedd and Hoberman, LLC in Hamden, will discuss the financial and legal issues involved with caring for a person with dementia, including power of attorney, health care representative, advanced directives, and conservatorship as well as funding sources for long-term care, especially Title XIX.

All talks will be from 5:30-8 p.m. in the Griffin Hospital Dining Room. Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. The presentations will start at 6 p.m.

Space is limited and registration is required for each talk. To register, call 203-732-1511 or visit the event calendar at griffinhealth.org

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.