	CARERS of WEST LOTHIAN Providing Support, Information and a Voice for Carers in West Lothian

Course for carers caring for someone with Dementia

Next Course:

Date: Monday 26th January 2009 to 16th March 2009 (8 consecutive weeks)

Time: 10.00am to 12noon

Venue: Occupational Therapy room, St John's Hospital.

A helping hand for the carer when dementia strikes a loved one

Recent studies have concluded that dementia is projected to affect the lives of around one in three people either as a sufferer, or as a carer or relative. At present, one person in every eighty-eight in the UK has dementia and, whilst great inroads are being made in the understanding and treatment of this condition, the dramatic changes to the lives of those families affected can be devastating.

For the past four years Carers of West Lothian, in partnership with the Occupational Therapy Department at St John's Hospital in Livingston, has run an eight week course for carers of recently diagnosed dementia sufferers. The course aims to provide carers and relatives with an insight into the treatment and management of this condition. Feedback from carers who attended previous courses has been positive, helping them to deal with feelings of isolation, and welcoming the support and friendship gained from fellow carers who "understand". <click for carer comments>

Sessions are delivered in a relaxed and informal environment featuring presentations from all the departments within St John's involved from the early stages of diagnosis through to treatment and support. Topics covered include coping with emotions, challenging behaviour, legal issues, power of attorney/guardianship, relaxation/stress management, benefits and financial issues. <click here for full evaluation report>

There's always time during each session for the questions that need answered and, that all-important cup of tea or coffee with the chance for a good chat!

Any carer or relative who would be interested in reserving a place should contact Jim Brown at Carers of West Lothian, Strathbrock Partnership Centre, 189a West Main Street, Broxburn on 01506 771750.