More than 40 local residents filled the Allenspark Community Church fellowship room on September 7 for “Navigating the Dementia Journey: Nurturing the Spirit.” The three-hour event was organized by Ralph Patrick, pastor at Allenspark Community Church and the former regional director of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Patrick is a dementia consultant and provides coaching and companionship through Cardinal Crossroads. Rebecca Chopp, the author of Still Me: Accepting Alzheimer’s Without Losing Yourself and chancellor emeritus at the University of Denver, was a co-presenter with Patrick. The program also included “soul collage,” led by Teresa McGuinness.
Patrick explained that dementia is a broad term that applies to many diseases: there are more than 100 types of dementia. Alzheimer’s is the most common form, accounting for 70% of all those with the disease. More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, with an increasing number diagnosed each year as the Baby Boomer generation ages.
Although there are currently no cures, there are drugs and lifestyle adaptations that can help dementia patients “live well” with the disease, he said.
Chopp, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s five years ago, encouraged everyone to make sure their doctor includes a cognitive test in their annual checkup. The test is covered by Medicare, she added. “The earlier you get diagnosed, the better,” Chopp said. Dementia progresses differently with each individual. She suggested five steps to take if diagnosed:
1. Accept the diagnosis with a positive attitude while acknowledging that there is tremendous grief that comes with the diagnosis.
2. Build your body to protect your brain through diet, exercise, and sleep.
3. Take time to create through play, dance, and art, all of which are good for your soul and your brain.
4. Engage socially to keep your brain stimulated.
5. Concentrate on your spirituality – be in awe of all of the wonders around you.
“Live with joy!” Chopp urged the attendees. “Stay as well as you can for as long as you can. Everything you take in is either brain-sustaining or brain-draining.”
Chopp said she is confident that drugs will be developed that will provide a cure and that vaccines will one day be available. Currently, however, the drugs available are expensive and, though they can delay progression, they do not provide a cure and can have serious side effects.
She urged patients to apply to be included in clinical trials, most of which are conducted at major medical centers. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Trial Match is a registry for clinical trials, accessed through their website at www.alz.org.
Patrick said those who are caring for a family member or loved one face unique challenges. “Care partners often feel alone, isolated from family and friends. It is essential for them to intentionally establish a support network, as you can’t take this journey alone.” Patrick provided numerous hints to help navigate this path, such as not arguing; focusing on feelings, not facts; and being intentional about healthy self-care practices. Patrick provides personal guidance for those living with dementia and care partners.
Due to the overwhelming response to this program, Patrick said that it is his intention to make this an annual event hosted by Allenspark Community Church, at 16 Washington Street in Allenspark. If you have questions about dementia or are in need of further support, contact Patrick at rwepatrick@gmail.com.
