The Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress will offer dementia training for family and caregivers during the month of November. (Photo courtesy of Pixels)

MARQUETTE — The Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress recently announced a three-part dementia training series which is set to take place throughout the month of November.

Each online course lasts approximately one hour and includes basic information about dementia, activities for people with dementia and the behavior and needs of those who suffer from the disease.

“Whether you are a seasoned dementia caregiver, family or friend, this online training series provides a better understanding of dementia and the impact it has on the person with the disease,” UPCAP said in a press release. “How to connect with individuals with dementia through activities and behaviors and the support needs of persons with dementia.”

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 50 million people suffer from dementia across the globe, with almost 10 million new cases popping up per year.

Dementia is a syndrome that causes deterioration in memory, thinking, behavior and the ability to perform tasks and activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, contributing to 60 or 70 percent of cases.

WHO states that “dementia has a physical, psychological, social and economic impact, not only on people with dementia, but also on their caregivers, families and society at large.”

The first of three courses hosted by UPCAP is titled “The Dementia Overview for Family and Friends,” and takes place at 2 p.m. Nov. 5. This course will provide important information about the disease and how it affects more than just memory. The course also touches on the role confusion plays, communication skills and other strategies and techniques for interacting with someone with dementia.”

The second course is titled “Planning Activities for Persons with Dementia,” and will be held at 2 p.m. on Nov. 12. The interactive session will provide information regarding engaging activities for those with dementia and how to assist those with dementia in a way that promotes contended involvement. Strategies and techniques for activity planning will also be touched on.

The final of the three-course series will occur at 2 p.m. Nov. 19 and is titled “Understanding Behavior and Support Needs of Persons with Dementia.” The course will touch on information regarding behavior of people with dementia, potential triggers and useful strategies for caregivers. Techniques for providing daily support and recognizing triggers leading to challenging behavior will also be provided.

UPCAP says there’s no cost to register for the courses, and individuals can sign up for a single course or all three if they choose.

While the courses are being offered free of charge, certain technology requirements are still necessary. Those interested in taking the courses must have a computer, tablet or smartphone with a working internet connection, along with a web browser and email address.

To register for each course, visit www.upcap.org or dial 2-1-1 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for assistance. All courses will be held in Eastern Time.

Ryan Spitza can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 248. His email address is rspitza@miningjournal.net.