Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Alzheimer’s is one of the primary forms of the disease known as dementia and with the diagnosis of dementia comes many life-challenging details. There is often initial shock, denial, and emotional turmoil of the diagnosis. Many people can live a few years or so, with minimal changes; however, for many, the disease is very progressive and difficult to navigate for the person affected by it, as well as their families and caregiver(s).
Once the disease progresses, forgetfulness, agitation, frustration, social withdrawal, difficulty with daily tasks, and a decreased quality of life often spiral at an alarming rate. Not only is it challenging for the person who has dementia, but it’s also difficult and upsetting for the caregiver and family members who see the changes in the personality of their loved one. Parents forget childrens’ names and they may forget who their spouse is. They also may begin to have difficulty with bathing, sleeping, eating, etc. This disease affects nearly 6 million Americans and unfortunately, that number is expected to triple within the next 20 years.
Caregivers often become overwhelmed—Don’t be afraid to seek help
Dementia can be difficult to accept by the entire family’s support system. Understandably, many caregivers want to be there for their loved one. They may feel a sense of obligation and pride in taking care of them but struggle to provide care by themselves. The Dubin Center believes no one should face dementia alone and works with caregivers to provide necessary education, help them build a care team, and to effectively plan for emergencies.
Training and Support
Take comfort in knowing that The Dubin Center’s certified professionals offer free training and education for family caregivers. Examples of these courses include the Savvy Caregiver, a 6-week, evidence-based course designed to help you become a more confident caregiver. The course is offered in small groups where you will meet other local caregivers who are learning and sharing the journey of caregiving with you. We also provide
Dealing with dementia, a two-class workshop which teaches participants how to utilize local resources and practice behavioral modification strategies with their loved ones living with dementia.
Amongst our different support groups are the Journey’s and Connections meetings. The Journey’s Group offers caregiver support group specific to those who have a loved one in the later stages of memory impairment. The Connections Group provides support in a group specific to those who have a memory impairment.
The Dubin Center—Where no one faces dementia alone.
Our mission is to achieve caregiver health, strength, and resilience by providing education, information, hope and compassion. The Dubin Center was established in 1995 to assist families of individuals suffering from dementia related disorders (including but not limited to Alzheimer’s Disease, Lewy Bodies,
Frontal Temporal, Vascular Dementia). The Dubin Center offers training and support for caregivers and loved ones of those affected by dementia.
The Support Groups here at The Dubin Center allow caregivers to learn effective coping strategies, share their current challenges and successes with others who are facing similar situations, and create a safe space to release their feelings in a loving and understanding environment. All groups are facilitated by one of our Certified Dementia Practitioners.
Our center is named after Alvin A. Dubin whose widow, Zelda Dubin, made a generous donation to ensure the viability of a resource center in Lee County. Throughout their lives, Alvin and Zelda Dubin used both their time and assets to help others. Their legacy will continue through the center’s work.
To find out more please call
(239) 437-3007 or visit
DubinCenter.com.
