If someone in your family has Alzheimer's disease, you know that life has changed and that you are faced with new challenges every day. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease can be tough and frustrating, but realizing you are not alone and that there are ways to make the job easier can reduce some of the stress. The Vermont Alzheimer's Association is offering a six-hour education program for families (and friends) of those with Alzheimer's disease or related disorders. The program is presented in two sessions which are three hours each and will provide family members with a basic understanding of memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer's disease and the changes in daily living that these bring. The program also includes practical information and strategies to help deal with these changes, to help identify supports available, and to care for yourself and be a healthy caregiver.

The program is being offered in Shelburne on Jan. 23 and 30, from 1-4 p.m. each day at The Arbors, 687 Harbor Road. Families should plan to attend both sessions. The cost for both sessions is $25 per person or $40 per family regardless of size. Advanced registration is required, and can be done so by contacting The Arbors at 985-8600.