When you notice signs of memory loss beyond what’s normal or when your loved one receives some sort of dementia or mild cognitive impairment diagnosis, life can feel overwhelming. As you begin that journey, early memory loss programs like Memory University can make a world of difference in helping you and your loved one figure out your first steps together.  

What is Memory University?  

Memory University is a six-week supportive and educational group course for persons with mild memory loss and their care partners where participants explore a variety of topics over six sessions taught by leading dementia experts. Topics include: 

  • Medications 
  • Coping techniques 
  • Family and social relationships
  • Community resources 
  • Planning for the future 

If Alzheimer’s Orange County (AlzOC) is a house, then the early stage support provided by programs like Memory University are like a door. AlzOC Programs & Education Specialist, Kim Bailey described the program as a gateway to the full continuum of services offered by Alzheimer’s Orange County.  

“In other words, when we meet people just after diagnosis and we start them out with some of this education and support and then bring them slowly into support groups, into more education, into social activities, we really end up having this continuum of programs that are tailored to them as they go through the disease,” Bailey explained.  

Currently, the program is offered once a quarter. No formal diagnosis is required, but participants are screened prior to participating to ensure it fits their needs for where they are in their journey. 

The importance of education 

Education is a crucial part of Memory University. Each week participants attend a session that includes an instructional component devoted to a particular topic taught by a subject matter expert. This approach allows participants to get helpful and relevant information directly from trusted experts like neuropsychologists, elder law attorneys, nurses, and others working in their respective fields. 

“I found the topics and the speakers to be very good. It was nice to be able to sit and have someone speak to us about relevant issues that we are facing and will be facing and what to do about it and providing resources on doing that,” said Denise, a local caregiver and program participant. 

Having access to well-informed speakers and instructors provides an opportunity to not only learn directly from those prepared to share their knowledge, but to also ask questions and find answers. 

“We were getting the answers or had the resources to get the answers,” Denise continued.  

Although education is central to preparing the caregivers and individuals with early memory loss those that participate in Memory University also get the added benefit of connecting with others like them. 

The value of community 

Memory University is beneficial not just because of the vital education it provides to participants, but also because of how it brings people together. Not only can the caregivers and their loved one both learn alongside each other they can do so with other couples like them. 

“I just think it’s very valuable to be with other people who have similar issues,” said one caregiver that participated in the early memory loss program. 

Even when family and friends learn about the diagnosis, they may not fully comprehend what living with the diagnosis is like or understand it as well as others who are living with memory loss, so meeting those that have first hand experience makes it easier to feel understood and supported.

“You don’t have to explain it. You’re getting supported just by being together, and you’re not so alone,” Denise said.  

Bailey emphasized that creating those connections and support network is a central part of what AlzOC aims to achieve through the program and that it has had some amazing results that have resulted in friendships, meaningful relationships and lasting bonds.  

“I’ve seen this evolve over the years, time and time again. They start you know, giving each other rides to the events and then they’re having dinner together and sometimes they’re on vacation together. I mean, people develop really life changing friendships, and they count so much.”

Having this communal support is crucial, especially considering that not everyone might be able to accompany you on your journey.  

“When you get a diagnosis, you’re entering into a new world and not everyone that’s been with you in your life is going to be able to go,” Denise stated. 

 

Finding hope and learning to live well 

If you or your loved have received a dementia or MCI diagnosis, know that although the journey has its share of challenges there is something you can do to learn how to live well despite the difficulties you may experience. 

“You can still live your life,” said one program participant. “You can still do this and this and this and then you kind of figure out where you’re going with it. [Kim Bailey] gave us hope and I think that was a critical piece.” 

When asked about what’s she finds rewarding about helping people in the early stages, Bailey talked about how the best thing is seeing their fear turn into confidence.  

“I mean, I always say that you know, people are so frightened, but when you learn about the illness, that kind of demystifies it, and even though it’s not good news, you feel more fortified to face it.”  

Turn your fear into empowerment and find companionship amongst others like you when you become a part of Memory University. To learn more about the program or if you are interested in participating, please email Kim Bailey at kim.bailey@alzoc.org 

 

Related Information

Early Stage Services
Explore services for those experiencing mild memory loss or those interested in learning about brain health.  Learn more.

What is Mild Cognitive Impairment?
Learn about what mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is and how to manage it. Read here. 

What are the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease?
When memory loss begins to affect daily life it may be an sign for a form of dementia like Alzheimer’s disease.  Read here.