Birches Assisted Living hosts dementia ethics program for caregivers
On October 17, The Birches Assisted Living in Clarendon Hills is hosting a program for dementia caregivers called "Ethics in Daily Care of People with Dementia."
Daniel Kuhn, a licensed clinical social worker, vice president of education at All Trust Home Care and author of the book "Alzheimer's Early Stage: First Steps for Family, Friends and Caregivers," will present the program from 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. at The Birches, located at 215 55th St. in Clarendon Hills. The program will include a complimentary breakfast.
Since dementia impacts memory, thinking and communication skills, people with the disease slowly lose their ability to make decisions and live independently. For dementia caregivers, this creates an ethical dilemma in which the caregiver struggles to balance the person's need for independence with their need for safety.
Kuhn, who has specialized in dementia care issues for over 40 years, will address common ethical issues that arise when caring for a person with dementia, including those related to the balance between independence and safety. He will also explain ethical values and provide attendees with a tool for making ethical decisions as a dementia caregiver.
"There are so many ethical questions that arise for dementia caregivers daily," said Katie Schaff Fagan, The Birches' director of Encore and memory care services and coordinator of the program. "We hope this presentation will provide caregivers with a concrete ethical framework that will not only make their lives less stressful, but will also make them better caregivers."
"Ethics in Daily Care of People with Dementia" is free and open to the public, although registration is required and space is limited. Nurses, social workers, licensed clinical professional counselors, physical therapists and nursing home administrators will receive one Continuing Education Unit (CEU) for their attendance. To RSVP, contact Katie Schaff Fagan at kfagan@birches.net or 630-570-6175.
The Birches Assisted Living in Clarendon Hills, Ill. offers professional services to support the physical, social, intellectual and spiritual growth of the older adults who make it their home. The Birches offers purposeful programming and activities designed to promote a healthy aging lifestyle and a strong sense of community. For more information about The Birches, call 630-789-1135 or visit: birches.net.