Dr. Walker Explains Early Onset Dementia to Community

"…Selegiline, Vitamins B and E, and Ginkgo. These are some medicines that patients with dementia often consume.  They have not been proven to improve or delay the onset of dementia," explained Dr. Mugabe Walker at the InPerson Eldercare Series event sponsored by San Luis Valley Health on January 12, 2017. 

Dr. Walker recently added Certified Medical Director to his title. He received formal training in Geriatric Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (so he's a Steeler's fan). The presentation to a full house of over 70 participants made a point that there is a need for more information for caregivers who are facing that a family member has been diagnosed with dementia.  Walker covered many topics including types of dementia, testing and treatments, and how important it is to rely on local resources in the community for support. There were several San Luis Valley organizations who focus on caring for older adults in our community who set up a resource table in the adjacent room. He also emphasized that during the early stages is the time to get Advanced Directives in place, such as the Power of Attorney, the MOST form, and other wishes. Walker left time for questions and said that being the caregiver isn't always easy and sometimes you have to make difficult decisions, but you shouldn’t feel alone. The presentation was the first of a four-part series and the next one will be on April 13th at 5:30 pm.