Memory care expert to speak in Edmond
EDMOND — A thought leader on Alzheimer’s disease who co-created an approach for caregivers will speak July 19-20 at Touchmark at Coffee Creek.
David Troxel is co-author of “The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care,” as well as five other books. The number of Oklahomans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to grow by more than 20 percent by 2025, according to a 2017 report from the Alzheimer’s Association. Currently, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Despite its growing prevalence, it has been nearly 15 years since the FDA approved a new dementia care medication, according to a news release.
“Without a new, more effective medication anytime soon, families and professionals will continue to struggle for ideas and answers,” Troxel said.
“This talk will discuss current trends, look at the future of dementia care and offer some practical caregiving tips that families and professionals can use to help the person with dementia lead the best possible life.”
The Best Friends Approach is built on a seemingly simple premise: what people living with memory loss need most is a friend — a best friend. Troxel teaches caregivers how to understand and fulfill this role.
There are three opportunities to hear Troxel:
•7 p.m. July 19: Current Trends in Dementia Care
•Noon July 20: Lunch & Learn: Current Trends in Dementia Care
•3 p.m. July 20: The Best Friends Approach to Dementia Care
Troxel’s presentations are open to the public. Touchmark is at 2801 Shortgrass Road in Edmond. Call 3401975 to make a reservation.
Touchmark has worked with Troxel and embraces the Best Friends Approach. Vice President of Clinical Services Wendy Schrag is a certified Best Friends master trainer.
“For years, I provided care to people living with a dementia diagnosis, and I can attest to the power and effectiveness of this life-affirming model. It really can change your experience as a family or professional caregiver,” Schrag said.
Touchmark is part of the Coffee Creek 638-acre planned residential development, which includes a golf course, recreation centers and walking and biking trails for Coffee Creek homeowners.