Understanding Dementia Class Supports Caregivers

The number of people with dementia is on the rise, and for each person diagnosed, care is required. Many families are functioning as caregivers without any education or training, which leaves them vulnerable to confusion, fear, frustration, and ultimately, burnout. One way Grace is seeking to support these families is through Understanding Dementia—a Grace Institute equipping class designed to help families and caregivers of those impacted by dementia gain a better understanding of the disease.

We were able to partner with the staff of The Gardens to offer Understanding Dementia this past spring, and over 50 people participated. The class covered basic dementia education, practical coping strategies, local resources, a dementia experience, and the opportunity to ask specific questions about dementia to professionals in the field.

One couple who took the class had this to say about their experience:

Understanding Dementia provided us with explanations about how dementia changes a person’s brain—giving us a better understanding about the changes we saw in my dad’s capabilities and his behaviors. It also gave us an opportunity to ask questions, share our experiences, and receive useful resources and support that we so desperately needed.

I have struggled a lot in my new role as a caregiver for my dad, and this class provided me a safe place to express my emotions, to be open about the challenges we are facing, and to feel accepted and understood. The dementia professionals presented the material with compassion and happily shared their knowledge and experience with everyone in the class.

What a blessing to come alongside families so they can be fully known and loved in a challenging season. If you are interested in learning more about Understanding Dementia or other classes related to caregiving, please email Julia Eldred at jeldred@gracechurchsc.org.