Area 10: Navigating aging and Dementia

To increase awareness and provide additional services to residents of Owen County, Area 10 Agency on Aging Dementia Outreach Specialist Amy Guerrettaz collaborates with organizations such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Service and Dementia Friendly Indiana. Guerrettaz also offers free confidential memory screenings by appointment.

A memory screening is a simple and safe “healthy brain check-up" that tests memory and other thinking skills. The National Memory Screening Program is an initiative of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. To schedule a memory screening at Area 10 Agency on Aging in Ellettsville, call 812-935-2582.

Area 10 also offers free Dementia Friendly Business training throughout Owen County. Organizations can demonstrate their commitment to empowering those living with dementia and their care partners by becoming a Dementia Friendly Business. For additional details, call 812-935-2582 or email aguerrettaz@area10agency.org.

Currently, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Service provides Navigating Aging and Dementia classes at the Owen County Public Library every other month. These classes are designed to help individuals maximize their own self-care and learn new skills for supporting a loved one living with dementia. For more information or to register, contact Dayna Thompson at dthompson6@iuhealth.org or 812-353-9299.

Upcoming class dates and topics include: April 11, Understanding Brain Change – Normal vs. Not Normal Aging; June 11, Positive Physical Approach and Hand-Under-Hand; Aug. 8, Building a Support Team; Oct. 10, Connecting for Success; and Dec. 10, Care Partner Stress Management.