A few hours could make a huge difference in the lives of Comox Valley caregivers.

That is all the time it will take for the Family Caregiver Series, a one-day workshop explaining effective ways to care for a person with Alzheimer Disease or a related dementia.

鈥淔or family caregivers, the commitment can last many years, and brings with it high stress levels and illness,鈥� explains Jane Hope, the regional support and education co-ordinator for the non-profit Alzheimer Society of B.C., which is putting on the series.

鈥淚t鈥檚 very important for caregivers to take care of themselves. They need to eat well, exercise and get enough rest so they can remain healthy.鈥�

Those points will be emphasized during the workshop, which is designed for family and friends who are caring for a person with dementia at home, in a long-term-care facility, attending an adult day centre, or living at distance.

Valley residents can choose from two possible sessions: Saturday, April 16 or Saturday, May 7. The cost is by donation. As seats are limited, pre-registration is strongly encouraged. Contact Hope toll-free at 1-800-462-2833 or jhope@alzheimerbc.org

The workshops will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Glacier View Lodge, 2450 Back Rd., in Courtenay. Participants are asked to bring a brown bag lunch.

Topics to be covered:

鈥� Understanding Alzheimer鈥檚 disease and related dementias

鈥� Effective and creative ways of facilitating communication with a person with dementia

鈥� Problem-solving for responsive behaviours

鈥� Navigating the system

鈥� Self-care for the caregiver

Each of the workshops have been partially funded by Lohn Foundation, Frank and Yvonne McCracken Foundation, Pfizer Canada Inc., Province of B.C., Provincial Employees Community Services Fund and RBC Foundation.

More information on Alzheimer Disease, and resources for coping with its impact, are available from the society鈥檚 website at www.alzheimerbc.org.