Worcester Business Journal

wbjournal.com | September 25, 2023 | Worcester Business Journal 9 mentia engaged and stave off isolation and depression. Communication is key When caring for someone who has Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, you must pay attention to how you communicate. Avoid multitasking. Keep distraction to a minimum when communicating with someone who is battling dementia. Put away your phone. Turn off the TV or radio and make sure you are fully dialed into the conversation. Keep it simple. Processing commu- nication can be difficult for someone coping with dementia-related illness. Speak slowly and understand repetition, while frustrating to you, can be benefi- cial to the other person. Ask yes-or-no questions. Don't argue. What your loved one is saying might be incorrect. It might be hurtful. But that person oen does not understand and cannot control what they are saying. Correcting or arguing is not helpful. Tone matters. Anger and irritation will still register, even if a person doesn't recognize you and has trouble process- ing what you are saying. Stay patient. Seek support It's imperative for people with loved ones facing an Alzheimer's diagnosis – or any dementia diagnosis – to seek advice early. Nicole McGurin, program director for the Massachusetts and New Hampshire chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, said the healthcare system for people with dementia is fragmented, and that makes planning care – and even understanding what's covered by insurance and who pays for services – is overwhelming. McGurin fills two main roles at the local Alzheimer's Association chapter: overseeing a team of care consultants who provide care planning for people with Alzheimer's and their loved ones, and community engagement efforts. She said the organization is working to change a lack of awareness about available resources, noting many people are at a loss for how to get help. She said a lot of programs cover low-in- come people on Medicaid, and more affluent people can afford assisted-living services. "It's a very big challenge, especially for people who are in the middle," McGurin said. But she urged people who are facing an Alzheimer's diagnosis in their family to call the Association's 24/7 helpline, where a highly special - ized expert can provide next steps and share options based on where a person lives. e helpline is 800-272-3900. More information can be found at www.alz.org. Sources: Alzheimer's Association; U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention W Clinical Positions (Scan the QR Code) Healthcare Positions: (Scan the QR Code) Opportunity Awaits. The diverse and dedicated staff of Seven Hills Foundation & Affiliates cares for people with disabilities and life challenges. Our extensive benefits for full-time positions include: • 3 weeks vacation, 3 personal days, 48 hrs. sick time, and 10+ holidays. • Up to 83% toward a health insurance premium. • Low-cost dental and voluntary vision insurance. • Employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance. • Tuition assistance and a robust network of 10 higher education partners. Apply for a Clinical or Healthcare position, today, and join our team! CONTACT: Ginger Lavallee, HR@sevenhills.org APPLY ONLINE: Scan the QR Codes or visit sevenhills.org/careers/career-opportunities • Certified Nursing Assistants • Registered Nurses • Licensed Practical Nurses • Occupational Therapists • Adoption Case Management • BCBA • Licensed & License-eligible Clinicians • In-home Therapists • Therapeutic Mentors • Recreational Therapists • Registered Behavior Technicians • Clinical Coordinators • Clinical Admissions Coordinators • Physical Therapist Aides • Direct Support Professionals • Dietary Aides • School Nurses People dance at a Memory Cafe event at Elder Services of Worcester Area. PHOTO | COURTESY OF THE OVERLOOK

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