Here are some frequently asked questions about understanding dementia, caring for someone with dementia, and the Dementia Care and Education Campus. If you'd like more information, just call (602) 767-8300 or contact us anytime.
Dementia is not a single disease, it's a general term for a group of conditions that affect memory, thinking, language, behavior and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer's disease is the most common type, but there are many other forms of dementia. Symptoms vary from person to person and typically progress over time. At the Dementia Care and Education Campus, we support individuals and families living with all types and all stages of dementia.
Dementia describes a collection of symptoms that affect memory, reasoning and daily functioning. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for the majority of cases. While all people with Alzheimer's have dementia, not everyone with dementia has Alzheimer's disease. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia.
Early signs may include:
Frequent memory loss that disrupts daily life
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Trouble finding the right words
Confusion about time or place
Poor judgment or decision-making
Changes in mood, personality or behavior
Withdrawing from social activities
If you notice these changes in yourself or a loved one, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can help families plan ahead and access valuable support.
Although every person's journey is unique, dementia is often described in three general stages:
Early Stage: Mild memory loss, occasional confusion and difficulty with planning or organization while remaining largely independent.
Middle Stage: Increased memory loss, greater confusion, changes in behavior and a growing need for help with daily activities.
Late Stage: Significant cognitive decline requiring around-the-clock care and assistance with personal needs.
We provides education, support and care for individuals and families throughout every stage of the dementia journey.
Simple changes can make conversations less stressful for everyone. Try to:
Speak slowly and calmly.
Use short, simple sentences.
Maintain eye contact.
Ask one question at a time.
Avoid correcting or arguing.
Offer reassurance through your tone and body language.
Watch our helpful videos of real-life scenarios
Sometimes the feelings behind the words matter more than the words themselves. Our educational programs teach practical communication techniques that help preserve dignity and reduce frustration.
Behavior changes such as agitation, wandering or repetitive questions are often a way of communicating an unmet need. Hunger, pain, fatigue, fear or overstimulation may all contribute.
Helpful strategies include:
Keeping a consistent daily routine
Reducing noise and distractions
Redirecting attention to a calming activity
Looking for possible physical causes such as pain or illness
Responding with patience and reassurance
Our dementia specialists can help caregivers understand behaviors and develop personalized strategies that improve quality of life.
It may be time to consider additional support if your loved one:
Frequently wanders or gets lost
Forgets medications
Leaves the stove or appliances on
Has repeated falls
Cannot manage personal hygiene or meals
Is no longer able to respond safely in an emergency
Every situation is different. Our experienced team can help families evaluate their loved one's needs and explore care options that promote safety while preserving independence whenever possible.
Meaningful activities can improve mood, reduce anxiety and create moments of joy. Depending on the person's interests and abilities, activities may include:
Music and singing
Art and crafts
Gardening
Gentle exercise or walking
Looking through family photos
Simple games and puzzles
Social interaction
Our Adult Day Club and Memory Café provide engaging, person-centered activities designed specifically for people living with dementia.
A community resource offering compassionate care, education and support for people living with dementia and their families. Services include:
Adult Day Club
Assisted Living
Memory Café
Caregiver education
Community classes
Professional training
In-home Supportive Care for Dementia
Hospice care for advanced dementia
Family support and caregiver resources
Yes. We offer support groups, educational classes and virtual programs that help family caregivers better understand dementia, build caregiving skills and connect with others facing similar challenges. These programs provide practical guidance, emotional support and a welcoming community.
Yes. Caring for someone with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding. We offer several respite options, including our Adult Day Club and the RISE (Respite in Student Engagement) Program, which provides meaningful engagement for people living with dementia while giving caregivers time to rest, work or attend to personal needs.
Persons with dementia are generally ready for hospice care when they show steady weight loss, and/or need help for all activities of daily living, are incontinent, speak few intelligible words and need help to sit up.
Getting started is simple. Call us at (602) 767-8300 or contact us and a member of our team will reach out to you. We'll listen to your concerns, answer your questions and help you find the programs and services that best meet your family's needs.
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