POTSDAM -- Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley, 6805 U.S. Highway 11, will present the Hospice Foundation of America’s annual “Living with Grief” webcast Wednesday, May 13, from 1 until 4 p.m. and Thursday, May 14, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

This year’s program is “The Longest Loss: Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.”

Hospice officials said when the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, grief doesn’t wait for death. Grieving can begin before a formal diagnosis or in the doctor’s office when patient and families receive confirmation of the illness. Over a span of what may be a decade or more, multiple losses associated with dementia become a pervasive part of everyday life for millions of patients, families and friends. After the death, survivors’ grief may be complicated by the nature of a lengthy disease process that has changed their relationship with their loved one. Through a combination of candid, compelling interviews experts will identify how medical and social service professionals can improve care for patients, families and caregivers while coping with loss and grief associated with these progressive illnesses.

“We were pleased to learn the topic of the HFA webcast for this year” said Mary Jones, Director of Family Support Services for Hospice. “Our Caregiver Support Program has been working to address the needs of caregivers in St. Lawrence County, whether they are affiliated with Hospice or not. Those caring for patients with Alzheimer’s and Dementia have a very long road, often with the fewest resources to help them cope with the illness, provide care for their loved one and remind them to take care of themselves while they assume this most important role. This webcast is one more opportunity for Hospice to provide valuable information and let the families who are affected by these illnesses know we are here to help,” she said.

All are welcome to attend, a Hospice affiliation is not required. The regularly scheduled Caregiver Support Group will meet. The webcast and support group are free of charge.

More info: 265-3105.