Educational Dementia Session in Warm Springs

Warm Springs Community Health recently held an informational and completely free educational event on dementia. It was presented by OHSU and included a wealth of helpful knowledge regarding what dementia is, what are some of the types, and the common behaviors associated with it.

Shawnetta Yahtin, a Medical Social Worker over at Warm Springs Community Health, brought in OHSU’s Associate Professor of Neurology at the Oregon Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, to share about her work, tips, and knowledge.

“Today I just wanted to share information to the community about dementia behaviors by Dr. Allison Lindauer from OHSU focuses to help our caregivers in the community who take care of our elders, who either have been recently diagnosed with dementia or are struggling with dementia symptoms.” Shawnetta said.

Dr. Allison Lindauer is a Nurse Scientist from Oregon Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, where the organization provides education, clinical care, and research for Oregonians about dementia.

“I think the takeaway message I have for caregivers and families caring for someone with dementia is: You don’t have to do this alone. Reach out to your friends. Reach out to your community. Get the support you need so you can do this for the long run.” Lindauer says.

Additionally, the presentation also included Dain Gilbert, a Physical Therapist over at Warm Springs Holistic Health. He presented alongside Dr. Allison Lindauer and Shawnetta Yahtin, providing an interesting perspective and findings that getting active can help improve brain health.

“So yeah, movement has been shown to actually grow your brain and slow the decline of your brain as well. It doesn’t take much, but it does take something. And every little bit counts.”

Dain Gilbert also added in that he is actively working on making sure Physical Therapy in Warm Springs is more easily accessible.

You can find him at Warm Springs Holistic Health at 541-777-2663.

For Dr. Allison Lindauer, she has recommended the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24/7 hotline 1-800-272-3900

For all things related to getting assistance mental-health or otherwise on the Warm Springs Reservation, you can get in touch with Shawnetta Yahtin at Community Health at 541-553-2352 EXT 6288.