Dementia care expert to speak in Nevada

A dementia care expert will speak Thursday, Oct. 2 from 9-11 a.m. at the Healthy Nevada Innovation Center, 212 W. Walnut Street Set B, Nevada.

Mary Sharp is an internationally respected consultant to caregivers of people who have dementia. Her presentations have been standing-room-only in places like New York City, Dallas, Seattle...and Southern Missouri. She has inspired caregivers across the US and Canada as well as in Scotland, Ireland and Fiji. She is coming because her good friend and fellow advocate for excellence in elder care, Janet Gard, has arranged (through her company, Hospice Compassus) to sponsor and host this very special meeting. The title of the program is "Making Beautiful Moments."

The two met almost ten years ago when Janet attended a conference where Mary Sharp was the featured speaker. There was an immediate connection, and they have worked together in and around Southern Missouri many times.

The presentation is targeted to members of families (and friends) who have a loved one with a form of dementia. Currently, one-third of Americans die of dementia (particularly Alzheimer's disease). That number will increase dramatically in the next 20 years.

Approximately 75% of people with dementia are cared for at home. In addition to the emotional pain and physical fatigue of 24/7 care, Sharp says the most debilitating aspect is the frustration of not being able to communicate in usual ways. She explains the importance of what she calls an "AS IS" attitude, not correcting matters of low importance and simple changes in communication that make for visits that are enjoyable.

There are many excellent presentations and reading materials about dementia, especially Alzheimer's disease, on subjects like the biology of the brain (what's happening) and findings from research.

Mary's presentations focus solely on aspects of communication and making life less stressful. Hers is a "been there, done that" reflection of what she learned during the 15 years she cared for her mother and the following 10 years in which she has worked with family and professional caregivers around the world.

Those who have attended similar meetings most often have two comments, "I'm so glad to find a person who really understands" and "I wish others in my family had been here."

This presentation is described as more a discussion of audience concerns than a lecture. It will be live and not a video broadcast. The efforts of many are coming together to make the meeting possible.

The sponsorship of Hospice Compassus means there is no charge to attend. The meeting is a one-time event:

It is requested that you call 417-682-3809 if you plan to attend. A handout will be provided and the meeting planners would like to know how many to print.