"I appreciate that my father is treated with patience and kindness and that all the staff members seem to be emotionally invested in the participants. I am completely comfortable when he is there because it is not just a place for him to be. It is a place where he is becoming someone new."

Educational Programs

As a part of our mission, AFDC strives to provide education and support to family caregivers on the many issues surrounding Alzheimer's disease. AFDC offers special classes designed to help caregivers build their skills and confidence while learning more about Alzheimer's resources in the community. Below, you can learn more about classes from AFDC, and additional classes offered in the community.

AFDC Classes for Caregivers

Community Class Offerings

Classes for Caregivers

AFDC offers Classes for Caregivers on the third Wednesday of every month from 1:30 to 3:00 pm. These educational programs assist family caregivers on a variety of topics, legal and financial considerations, community resources, and ways to build coping skills. All classes are free, and open to the public. Respite care is also available upon request.

Download the new 2012 AFDC class schedule!

If you would like copies of handouts, or program materials from a previous session please contact us.

The Mechanics of Alzheimer's Disease

February 15, 2012
Neuropsychology Associates of Fairfax will discuss the disease process and brain deterioration, as well as some of the tests that can be used to properly diagnose and assess progression of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.

Life After Diagnosis

March 21, 2012
What can you expect now that a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease has been given? Discover some of the practical things that you can do now to help you and your loved one plan for future care as the disease progresses.

Let's Talk Alzheimer's

April 18, 2012
Communication, both expressive and receptive, often becomes difficult as you struggle to meet the needs of your loved one. Learn some communication skills that can help ease the frustration and lead to successful interactions.

Communication & Behaviors

May 16, 2012
Behaviors can be the best source of communication for those with Alzheimer's disease. Successful communication is directly related to positive behaviors. Strategies for minimizing and dealing with challenging behaviors will be discussed.

Taking Care of Business

June 20, 2012
Many practical legal matters need to be taken care of, like powers of attorney, trusts, wills and estates, and guardianship. A community based elder law attorney will help evaluate your needs and the steps that should be taken for a smooth transition.

Attitude is Everything

July 18, 2012
Meeting the challenges of memory impairment with a positive attitude and a sense of humor can benefit everyone. Anger management techniques, as well as positive approaches to the tasks of emotions and caregiving will be explored.

Ask the Experts: Open Q&A Session

August 15, 2012
Bring your questions and join a guided discussion with the help of dementia care professionals and everyone in attendance! No one has better answers than those who are dealing with daily care of a loved one with Alzheimer's disease..

Financial Considerations of Caregiving

September, 19, 2012
The financial costs of long term care and long term caregiving are enormous. Explore some of your options for this important aspect of caregiving. The program will be presented by a financial manager with expertise in long term care planning.

Keep Them Busy - and Happy: Activities with a Purpose

October 17, 2012
Keeping busy and active is important to both care giver and the person with dementia. As simple tasks can become more and more frustrating, adapting leisure pursuits and daily routines can provide more quality time for everyone.

Where Do I Go For Help?

November 14, 2012 (one week early for Thanksgiving holiday!)
In Fairfax County alone, the Agency on Aging, Elderlink, case managers, assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement communities, home health organizations and day care and senior centers are all available. Learn what they can do for you!

Making Changes

December 19, 2012
Transitions are a part of life, especially with Alzheimer's disease. Family roles, responsibilities, daily routines, and often living arrangements all change. Knowing when and how to make those changes is often difficult. Information and strategies for making transitions are offered.

Community Class Offerings

The Fairfax Caregiver Seminar Series classes will begin again this spring. Check back for new offerings soon, or visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/DFS/OlderAdultServices.