We all want a rewarding, independent and healthy future. But sometimes our plans are interrupted when the diagnosis of dementia enters our lives. Approximately once every 70 seconds someone in the United States has their life-plans interrupted by dementia.

What is dementia?

Dementia describes symptoms that occur when the brain is affected by diseases, including Alzheimer's, stroke, traumatic brain injuries and many other conditions. Symptoms include loss of memory, confusion and problems with speech and understanding. For a loved one, symptoms can be devastating, oftentimes leaving families feeling helpless.

Different areas of the brain are responsible for specific skills and abilities. The changes in behavior, memory and thought in people with dementia are a direct result of the way the disease affects their brain. It is important to note, that when a disease or accident affects one portion of the brain, many areas may remain unaffected. These untouched areas, no matter the person's age, may remain capable of functioning normally and can even gain new skills - a concept called Neuroplasticity.

Treatments

For years, the treatment for dementia was purely pharmacological, using drugs such as Aricept or Namenda. Unfortunately, medication does not work for all and for others, troubling side-effects limit the benefits. Despite efforts to manage dementia with drugs only, treatments often fall short of hopes and expectations from loved ones, and much to be desired in outcome.

In response, researchers began to investigate treatment compliments that incorporated behavioral as well as psychosocial interventions-cognitive stimulation and rehabilitative therapies. With steady advancement in cognitive studies, researchers and medical specialists have determined that regular use of structured therapies can significantly improve quality of life and prolong social connectedness with loved ones and the community. In short, cognitive therapies have been shown to fill the gaps in dementia care and benefit many patients and their families.

Free Memory Discussion

To learn more about memory formation, dementia and memory therapies, please attend a free discussion hosted by MEMORY BRIDGING and Heritage Club at Greenwood Village at 6:30 pm on Thursday, January 31 at 6450 South Boston Street in Greenwood Village. Seating is limited, so please RSVP at 303-224-9455 to reserve a seat. Refreshments and snacks will be provided.

About the hosts:

MEMORY BRIDGING is focused on supporting and improving the quality of life, cognitive function and emotional well-being for individuals and families coping with Alzheimer's, mild stroke and mild traumatic brain injury. MEMORY BRIDGING is a Denver Business Journal 2007 Champions in Health Care Innovation Finalist. For more information, please contact 303.328.1195 or visit www.membridge.com.

Heritage Club at Greenwood Village-6450 South Boston Street Greenwood Village, CO 80111-is committed to offering an environment that maintains the highest standards while providing a continuum of care that includes an Assisted Living Residence, an Alzheimer's Residence, as well as a Nursing and Rehabilitation community. Contact 303-224-9455 or visit www.brookdaleliving.com/heritage-club-greenwood-village.aspx for more information.