The Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter is offering a free virtual education series to kick off the new year.

The programs are available to help those living with Alzheimer’s and their families understand what to expect so they can be prepared to meet the changes ahead and live well for as long as possible.

The topics covered will range from what changes to expect from your loved one in the different stages of the disease, to legal and financial issues, to new advancements in Alzheimer’s research.

The programs will be hosted virtually through Zoom and attendees will be able to ask questions and converse with others who may also be dealing with similar situations.

The next session will be 3:30 to 5 p.m. Jan. 19 and will be about new advancements in Alzheimer’s treatment, specifically the medication Aducanumab. The session will discuss how Aducanumab works, who the intended candidates are to receive the treatment, and availability.

On Jan. 26 from 3:30 to 5 p.m., the session will focus on legal and financial planning. This interactive two-part program will give attendees a chance to learn about important legal and financial issues to consider, how to put plans in place, and how to access legal and financial resources near you. This program will cover information for families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

The Feb. 9 session from 3:30 to 5 p.m. is entitled “Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers: Middle Stage.” This course will discuss caring for those with Alzheimer’s in the middle stages of the disease. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear caregivers and professionals discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, effective and comfortable care in the middle stage of Alzheimer’s.

On Feb. 16 the next section of the session, “Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers: Late Stage” will be held from 3:30 to 5 p.m. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, in the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, caregiving typically involves new ways of connecting and interacting with the person with the disease. This program will provide guidance in caring for those in the late stage of Alzheimer’s.

To learn more and register for any of these programs, visit the Alzheimer’s Association Programs Event Calendar at https://www.alz.org/iowa/helping_you/programs-event-calendar or contact Megan Pedersen at 563-293-8058 or mepedersen@alz.org.

The Alzheimer’s Association also hosts support groups. If you are interested in attending a support group, please visit alz.org/crf, call our helpline at 1-800-272-3900, or contact Pedersen or Megan Benzing at 515-414-8124 or mrbenzing@alz.org.