Alzheimer Society hosting public event Saturday

By Gillian Slade on January 10, 2018.

gslade@medicinehatnews.com  @MHNGillianSlade

The Alzheimer Society is sponsoring an event open to the public on Saturday.

Sienna Caspar, assistant professor of therapeutic recreation for the University of Lethbridge, is the speaker at Understanding the Language of Behaviour, Jan. 13 at 2 p.m. at Medicine Hat College lecture theatre S159.

Responsive behaviour is generally used to describe agitation or aggressive behaviour in those with dementia, said Caspar.

The term is preferred by those with dementia, representing how their actions, words and gestures are a response, often intentional, that expresses something important about their personal, social or physical environment, said Caspar. The behaviour is the result of changes taking place in the brain, affecting memory, judgment, orientation and mood.

Responsive behaviours include all verbal expressions, gestures and actions to communicate meanings, needs and concerns. To gain an understanding of the meaning of these behaviours you need to consider the influencing factors, including physical, emotional and environmental aspects, she said.

Caspar received a B.Sc. in Therapeutic Recreation, has worked in long-term care facilities for more than 20 years as a certified therapeutic recreation specialist and a consultant.

At the workshop on Saturday, information will be shared on new research into what non-pharmacological interventions work best to treat responsive behaviours and why.

Free tickets will be available at the door. If you require any additional information please call the local office for Alzheimer Society Alberta and NWT: 403-528-2700.

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