An original MPBN Television/Web production

The scourge of Alzheimers and other forms of adult dementia is an acute source of concern not just for patients, but also those suddenly thrust into the role of primary caregiver for an aging spouse, parent or grandparent. MPBN has produced a half-hour television special, as well as a unique Web presence, examining the issues and questions surrounding the care of loved ones who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s.

The program is hosted by MPBN's Suzanne Nance and produced by Dan Lambert, who has first-hand experience as the primary caregiver for his ailing mother, who suffers from advanced-stage dementia. Weaving interviews with health experts caring for Alzheimer’s patients with the  personal experiences of Mainers who have suddenly found themselves dealing with the gradual, painful loss of a loved one, “Caring for the Caregiver” is designed for anyone who is now or who may one day need to confront this difficult reality.

Legal Considerations for Caregivers
Interview with Mark Nale, Elder Law Attorney

Mark Nale is a Waterville Elder Law Attorney. He shares information on legal issues facing aging Mainers. This segment outlines critical documents that all adults should have in place, espically aging Mainers, such as: Last Will & Testament, Durable Power of Attorney and Medical Power of Attorney (Advance directives.)
 
Length: 3 minutes

Assessing & Addressing the Emotional Needs of Caregivers
Interview with Maureen Callnan, MS, APRN, CS
Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist

Maureen Callnan, MS, APRN, CS is an Adult Psychiatric and Mental Health Clinical Nurse Specialist at the Maine Medical Center's Geriatric Center.  Maureen counsels caregivers on how to process and express their feelings and emotions surrounding the diagnosis of a family member with Dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
 
Length: 6 minutes

Share Your Story Spotlight: Losing my father a piece at a time.

submitted by David Jordan

My father is Haven T Jordan, formerly of Yarmouth, Maine. He was born and raised in Yarmouth and attended North Yarmouth Academy. He was the captain of the basketball team, the student council president, and held the state record in the high jump for many years. He joined the US Air Force after high school and was stationed in Europe.. He was a military policeman and after getting out of the service he became a police officer in both his home town of Yarmouth and also in Portland for a while. In July of 1959 while off duty he swam to the bottom of Range pond, retrieved a drowning boy from the bottom and saved his life. He worked hard all his life in a variety of jobs and with my mom raised four boys and my sister. He was a wonderful father who would routinely go without to make sure we had everything we needed. I aspire to be half the father he was. I know I never will.  
 

Community Caregiving
Tactics for Encountering the Person with Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia

Presentation by Peg Gagnon of the Maine Alzheimer's Association given to cadets at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy in Vassalboro, Maine. 

Length: 1 hour 5 minutes