Press Release
When is someone just forgetful and when is forgetfulness a sign of an underlying condition?
That question, and other issues surrounding memory loss, will be addressed at a free public presentation at the Backus Community Center in International Falls on Thursday, Oct. 28.
The event is being offered to those with concerns about memory loss, whether that of their own or that of a family member or friend.
The keynote speaker will be Esther Gieschen, regional center director of the Alzheimer’s Association of Minnesota and North Dakota.
Her presentation, “Understanding Living with Alzheimer’s,” will provide an overview of the field as well as recent research findings in diagnosis and care.
In addition, local psychiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Hardwig will offer a case study of how an individual with a memory loss disorder can find help in the medical community.
An open question period will follow each speaker.
“We are very pleased to bring this important topic to the public, especially to those who may have only just become aware of the issue,” said Douglas Skrief, executive director of Koochiching Aging Options, a non-profit agency serving older adults throughout Koochiching County and sponsor of the event.
“The presentations also help to mark National Family Caregiver Month in November,” he added.
Gieschen, a certified instructor of the National Alzheimer’s Association’s education programs, has worked in human services and education for more than 10 years.
Dr. Hardwig obtained his medical degree at the Mayo Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency at the Mayo graduate school in Rochester, Mn.
He practises general community psychiatry, and often is asked to evaluate and treat psychiatric complications of dementia such as depression, psychosis, and delirium.
The event will be held from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Backus Community Center dining room.
Refreshments will be served.
For more information, contact Koochiching Aging Options at 1-218-283-7030.
