Family Support

A Dementia Diagnosis Impacts the Whole Family

Any kind of medical diagnosis of a loved one — particularly when they are an older adult — can be difficult for family. A dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be especially overwhelming. Behaviors not typical for that person can make interacting with and caring for them challenging. This can impact how you feel toward them, how you react to everyday situations and ultimately how your relationship with them is altered. Knowing you are not alone on this journey is key. And it’s why the Memory Care Learning Center exists: to provide support and tools for family and caregivers of a senior living with dementia.

Families and caregivers who access our programming — which is free — learn practices and skills through sessions offered both virtually and in person.

Training and support for subsequent stages of the diseases help caregivers better engage someone with the disease while emphasizing dignity and compassion for both sides of the relationship.

Check Out Our Classes

We also have a list of quality resources that provide national and local perspectives and assistance for those living with dementia and their families. Take a look at our resources page.

Memory Care Learning Center Leadership

Heather Renter, Ph.D., is a gerontologist serving as Director of Education and Research at Heritage Community of Kalamazoo. In her current role, she merges her cross-disciplinary expertise in gerontology, public health, adult and intergenerational learning, and contemplative practices. She oversees the growth and development of the Memory Care Learning Center, an innovative initiative to provide education, lifelong learning, and support for people living with memory loss, their families and loved ones. She also directs leadership development, training, and research efforts to catalyze, develop, and implement programs of excellence in memory care.

As a former associate professor, and certified mindfulness instructor, Dr. Renter blends practical teaching and research experience with contemplative practices to develop intergenerational, lifelong learning courses and programs that build and promote socio-emotional intelligence and wellness among memory care professionals, care-partners, and people living with memory loss.

Dr. Renter serves as an age-positive speaker, educator and facilitator for local and national audiences on topics and issues related to caregiving, intergenerational teaching and learning, spirituality, self-care, and adult and lifelong learning within the context of aging and late life memory loss and dementia.

Inquire

Start the conversation: (269) 343-1161 | 2300 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49001

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