Educational discussions by local experts offer solace to family members and friends

 

DAVENPORT, IA (October 13, 2015) - Senior Star at Elmore Place is pleased to invite the Quad Cities community to an informative presentation on Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 21 at 4500 Elmore Avenue, Davenport.

According to the Alzheimer's Association website, LBD is a type of progressive dementia that leads to a decline in thinking, reasoning and independent function.  The site also notes most experts estimate that LBD is the third most common cause of dementia after Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, accounting for 10 to 25 percent of cases.

Discussions at Senior Star will focus on the science of LBD as well as the emotional side of the disease.  Dr. Phillip Kent, retired neuropsychologist and former director of Genesis Psychology Associates, will help participants understand the four major types of dementia with an emphasis on LBD, in addition to discussing the diagnosis and treatment.  Paul Smith, moderator of a local LBD caregiver support group and volunteer for the Lewy Body Dementia Association, will talk about the realities of caring for someone with LBD, drawing from his own personal experiences as well as the many private heartfelt conversations he has had with people across the country.  Smith's keen understanding of the emotional impact and toll the disease can have on loved ones is evidenced by his invitation to present at the upcoming International Lewy Body Dementia Association Conference in December.

As leading experts in caring for those with Alzheimer's and LBD, Senior Star associates will also be on hand to discuss and share examples of how they are providing care for residents who have LBD.  Associates go through an intense quarterly training and additional instruction as needed to understand the specific needs of those with LBD and how they differ from those who have Alzheimer's.  This training also leads to doctor referrals based on behaviors so that a resident's primary care physician or neurologist can make an appropriate and early diagnosis.  Associates also work with families on an individual basis to help them become the biggest advocates for their loved ones.  Through education and understanding, Senior Star is able to meet the personalized needs of those with LBD while also assisting the entire family through the disease process.

"We are so pleased to host Dr. Kent and Paul Smith who each bring a unique perspective and understanding to the complexities of LBD.  This presentation is essential for anyone trying to navigate the challenges of this disease in the role of caregiver, family member or friend," said Marc Strohschein, executive director at Senior Star at Elmore Place.  "Every day we work with residents and families affected by LBD and it's our goal to help educate the greater Quad Cities community since knowledge can bring strength and focus to this disease."

Please RSVP by October 20 by calling 563.359.0100 to reserve your spot.

For more information about Senior Star at Elmore Place or to schedule a tour, call 563.359.0100 or visit the website at www.seniorstar.com.

About Senior Star at Elmore Place

Senior Star at Elmore Place, a Senior Star community, features 236 modernly decorated apartments spanning across 20 acres of beautifully landscaped property with many customized amenities to offer its residents three distinctive living experiences:  independent living, assisted living and memory care.  For more information, visit www.seniorstar.com.

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