UW-Led Wyoming Dementia Together Caregiver Programs Begin Jan. 29

“Validation Technique and Communication Tips” is the topic of the first program of the new year Wednesday, Jan. 29, hosted by Wyoming Dementia Together (WDT).

WDT is a statewide, nonprofit caregiver network operating through the University of Wyoming’s Wyoming Center on Aging (WyCOA). WDT meets by Zoom call every other Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. The free programs feature guest speakers and allow time for interaction from those who attend online.

Carol Taylor, a licensed clinical social worker in Jackson, will lead the discussion in WDT’s latest program. She says it can be difficult to communicate with loved ones who are living with dementia.

“Are there clues they are trying to express themselves, even when they’re losing the ability to verbally convey thoughts and feelings?” Taylor asks. “How can we tell? Caring for a loved one with dementia is already challenging, but there are effective communication strategies to employ as the condition progresses.”

WDT includes dementia care professionals, licensed clinical social workers, occupational therapists and caregivers themselves. WDT began meeting in fall 2020 and since has been offering online programming help.

Future WDT programs, offered every other Wednesday of the month, will feature “Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness,” Feb. 12; “Dementia Friendly Activities and Social Engagement,” Feb. 26; “Dignity in Dementia Care and Aging Etiquette,” March 12; and “Dementia: The Importance of Early Diagnosis,” March 26.

For information about registering for Zoom calls and the other free services offered by WDT, call WyCOA at (307) 766-2829 or email wycoa@uwyo.edu.

For more information, go to the WDT Caregiver Network website.