A diagnosis of Alzheimer's or a related dementia is likely not the life path one envisions. The best way to face this disease is to continue to enjoy life. The Maine Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association has been successful in helping patients with early stages of dementia and Alzheimer’s design and carry out activities they can enjoy with others. These Social Engagement Programs offer a fun and comfortable way for people in the early stage of the disease to get out, get active and get connected with like individuals through a variety of community-based activities and social events.

Mark Pechenik, the director of Outreach from the Maine Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will be speaking at the November meeting of People Helping People on Friday, Nov. 11 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at the Community Center in the Meadow Mall in Boothbay Harbor. This event is open to the public and families with individuals who are in the early stages of memory loss are encouraged to come.

Mark will explain how the Social Engagement program works and will teach us how to interact respectfully with people who are experiencing memory loss. He hopes to recruit interested patients and families from the Midcoast region to start planning activities they’d enjoy doing. This is not intended primarily as a caregiver support group, but rather as a way for those experiencing early stage dementia to keep our brains active by designing programs and activities we will enjoy.

Activities might include going out to lunch together, going on an excursion to a local attraction, sharing memories, writing/telling your life story, sing alongs, walking or hiking outdoors, visiting museums, attending musical events, sharing a favorite hobby, playing brain-enhancement games, exercising together ... The possibilities are endless.

If you, or someone in your family, is beginning to experience memory issues, show signs of dementia, or has been diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer’s, take this opportunity to take charge of your life and slow down the progression of memory loss and disability by becoming even more socially engaged and active. This program is being sponsored locally by the People Helping People Program of the Boothbay Region Health & Wellness Foundation.