Those living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias often face difficulties communicating with loved ones and understanding language as the disease progresses. Speech therapy can support families in addressing these challenges.

AHAVA Memory Care Center of Excellence, located on the campus of the Jewish Association on Aging, is offering a free program to discuss these issues and ways to support loved ones dealing with speech difficulties.  This program will be beneficial to family and friends of those living with dementia, as well as to professionals.

Sarah E. Wallace, PhD, CCC-SLP will present this very important topic, Tuesday, January 23, from 2-3 PM at the Jewish Association on Aging’s Community Room, 200 JHF Drive, Pittsburgh PA  15217.

Dr. Wallace conducts clinical research aimed at improving the quality of life of individuals with communication impairments.  She is Associate Professor and Program Director for the Adult Language and Cognition in the Speech-Language Pathology Department of Duquesne University.

AHAVA Memory Care is hosting this event as Part 1 of a two-part series exploring the benefits of speech therapy for those living with dementia. Part 2 will be held in the same location, February 20, from 2-3 PM.

Speech therapy seeks to improve lost functions, address impacted abilities, and teach coping skills.  It also helps counter feelings of isolation, a loss of dignity and lack of stimulation that often accompanies memory disorders.

AHAVA Memory Care Center of Excellence, opened in October, 2017, is the region’s premier resource for dementia and Alzheimer’s care.  It is also the only facility of its kind in western Pennsylvania, partnering with The Hearthstone® Institute, a respected leader in the field. Hearthstone’s I’m Still Here approach leads to a greater sense of well-being and understanding, reduces anxiety and enriches the emotional life and memories of AHAVA residents.

While this special event is free to the public and everyone is welcome, kindly RSVP to Amy Dukes, Memory Care Liaison, at 412-521-8295 or at adukes@jaapgh.org.