CSU Extension hosts Preserving Relationships in Dementia sessions for caregivers March 3-4

Colorado State University Extension is presenting a series of "Preserving Relationships in Dementia" programs March 3–4 across six northeast Colorado locations, led by Jill Couch, MS, a licensed occupational therapist (OT/L), Certified DAWN Dementia Specialist and founder of Better People Care. Individual sessions are two hours long; the Sterling session took place Tuesday, March 3, from 1 to 3 p.m. at 508 S. 10th Avenue and carried a $25 per person fee.

The program materials and local coverage describe practical, immediately usable techniques for caregivers and providers. The Journal‑Advocate summarized the session this way: "Participants will learn about practical tools to strengthen connection with loved ones. Discover: how cognitive changes impact relationships, simple DAWN Method tools to use right away, how to preserve connection and dignity, and encouragement." That two-hour format was also described in HFHERALD materials as providing the same DAWN Method tools and encouragement.

Organizers asked that interested attendees RSVP by Friday, Feb. 27; Logan County registration was handled through the local Extension office. For Logan County, contact Jaci Wagner at (970) 522-3200; the Sterling Journal‑Advocate listed that same number, 970-522-3200, for information and registration for the Sterling session. HFHERALD listed additional county contacts for the regional rollout: Morgan County — Katie Seelhoff, (970) 542-3540; Phillips County and Washington County — Stephanie Starkebaum, (970) 854-3616; Kit Carson County and Yuma County — Joy Akey, (970) 332-4151.

HFHERALD materials also noted that Couch "will present 'Preserving Relationships in Dementia' at six locations in northeast Colorado during March 3-4," and encouraged "family members, caregivers, health care providers, those providing support to someone impacted by Alzheimer's disease or other dementias and anyone interested in learning more" to attend one of the sessions. The same HFHERALD excerpt included a longer program background definition: "Dementia, a deterioration of brain function that differs from normal aging, is a general term for a loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that is severe enough to interfere with daily life. It also affects behaviors, emotions and the ability to use the rational part of your brain to process information."

Local supports tied to the Extension were also mentioned in HFHERALD copy: an in-person Dementia Support Group coordinated by the CSU Office of Engagement at the Northeast Regional Engagement Center in Sterling will relocate to Haxtun, providing a regular space "for caregivers and family members to connect with others, share experiences and access resources related to dementia care."

CSU Extension language included in the HFHERALD excerpt names Couch and her credentials exactly as provided: "Colorado State University Extension is pleased to have Jill Couch, MS, licensed Occupational Therapist, Certified DAWN Dementia Specialist, and founder of Better People Care, returning to our communities to share more information, tools and" (text supplied is truncated). For Logan County residents who missed the Sterling session or need follow-up resources, the Logan County Extension office at (970) 522-3200 remains the primary contact for details and next steps.