Pine Rest Mission Statement
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services is called to express the healing ministry of Jesus Christ by providing behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity and compassion.

Dementia

By Scott Halstead, PhD, Neuropsychologist
Manager, Psychological Consultation Center/Senior Care Clinic

Today there are more than four million Americans who suffer from Alzheimer's disease, the most common form of dementia, and millions more are affected by changes in blood circulation in the brain, sometimes known as vascular dementia. According to the U.S. Census data, the number of Americans over age 65 will double over the next 25 years as the baby boomers age, leading to a significant increase in the number of Americans affected by some form of dementia.

Before continuing, it may be helpful to have a clearer understanding of the term, "dementia." Many people mistakenly understand the word to mean the same thing as Alzheimer's disease. In fact, "dementia" is a broad term describing problems with memory plus one or more other cognitive functions, such as language or other complex areas of thought involving such things as planning, organizing, and problem-solving. In addition to Alzheimer's and cerebrovascular disease, there are many other conditions that can cause dementia, including low thyroid, certain vitamin deficiencies, head injury, HIV infection, brain tumor, normal pressure hydrocephalus, Parkinson's disease, and substance abuse. In some cases, untreated depression can mimic symptoms of dementia.

Some forms of dementia are progressive, meaning that they will continue to worsen over time, while other forms are stable, and still others are entirely reversible or treatable. Knowing the cause of a person's dementia is critical for ensuring the most effective treatment, and the earlier the problem is diagnosed, the more likely it is that treatment will be able to stop or reverse symptoms of cognitive decline (as in depression or normal pressure hydrocephalus) or to maximize the brain's ability to function over time (as in Alzheimer's disease). Effective management of dementia requires a thorough assessment, an accurate diagnosis, and prompt treatment.

Although there are a number of things that can be done once a diagnosis of dementia has been made, scientists are increasingly aware of the importance of preventive measures or behaviors that need to begin well before symptoms of forgetfulness do. These behaviors are outlined in the January 2006 scientific journal, Alzheimer's and Dementia: the Journal of the Alzheimer's Association. The Journal report is from a committee to the National Institute of Health's Cognitive and Emotional Health Project. In their report, the committee emphasizes certain factors thought to be protective against Alzheimer's dementia. These include a higher level of education, a strong social support network, and physical attributes commonly associated with healthy diet and exercise, including lung capacity and a healthy heart. Although there were a number of areas that required further research, these findings are consistent with the long-held belief that healthy living can decrease the risk of cognitive decline later in life. Because the effects of poor diet and little or no exercise can take years to accumulate, the sooner one begins a healthy lifestyle the more likely it is to make a difference down the road. The Alzheimer's Association maintains a helpful web site with healthy lifestyle recommendations. This can be found at www.alz.org/maintainyourbrain.

As a final thought, until a cure is discovered, there will be older adults with some form of dementia. The challenges to individuals and families who experience these symptoms can be reduced by careful planning ahead. All adults should give some thought to medical planning in case they become incapacitated. Decisions about whether or not a person desires to be resuscitated or kept on life-support should be discussed with loved ones and put in writing. This reduces the burden on family members who may not be aware of their loved ones wishes. Also, Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementias can require expensive care and special living arrangements. Planning ahead through savings or long-term care insurance policies can also ease the burden on families if such services should be necessary. Healthy living can help reduce the risk of developing a dementia. Knowledge of symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and treatment when it is most effective. Careful planning can help minimize the challenges associated with dementia care and maximize the quality of time spent with family and friends.

(Excerpted from the upcoming "Today" magazine on aging.)

Anger

by Jim Bottenhorn, MA, LLP, Director of Pine Rest's Contact Center

What is Anger and Anger Management?
Anger is an emotion, a signal that something is not right. It reflects our hurt, frustrations, and fears. As a human emotion, anger is neither "right nor wrong." It is not the feeling of anger, rather it is the doing of anger that can cause us problems. There are also many positive attributes of anger. It can energize us to strive for a goal, empower us to protect ourselves or resolve an abusive relationship.

What causes Anger?
Anger springs from everyday feelings of frustration or perceptions of hardship, or injustice. Some of the factors influencing anger are: stress levels, learned family behaviors, temperament/personality, feelings of rejection, powerlessness, needing everything and everyone to be perfect, etc.

Signs or Symptoms of Anger?
Loss of control, problems with relationships due to outbursts, bottled-up anger that seeps out as sarcasm or cutting remarks.

Treatment Options?
Anger management, assertiveness and stress management classes, reading books on the subject, professional counseling, talking about your feelings of anger.

Jim Bottenhorn facilitates Pine Rest's Anger Management workshops.

(Taken from the "Conditions Library" of the Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services Web site: http://www.pinerest.org/education/conditions/anger.asp)

Nelson Zwaanstra, Ph.D., has worked at Pine Rest since 1987. He earned his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Fuller Graduate School of Psychology. He specializes in treating anxiety disorders and works in Pine Rest’s Zeeland Clinic. Zwaanstra provides individual and group therapy.

Upcoming Events

Family Institute Lectures and Certification Classes
June 3, 10, 17
Secrets for Successful Marriage
Pre-marital workshop taught by experienced marriage professionals for couples who want to grow their relationship in preparation for marriage. Because it is skill-based, it is a valuable addition to traditional pastoral or professional premarital counseling. To be held 9 a.m. to noon at the Chapel on the Pine Rest main campus. Cost: $95/couple. Call 616/455-5279 for more information.
For more information click here.

General Events
June 12, 2006
2006 Harvey Rozema Golf Classic
A four-person scramble held at Blythefield Country Club, 5801 Northland Drive, NE, Grand Rapids. Choice of 7:45 a.m. or 1 p.m. tee-off. Cost: $210/person. Contests and events include hole-in-one, fifty/fifty, team challenge, closet to the pin, longest drive, and accurate drive. An online brochure is available at http://www.pinerest.org/foundation/2006_Rozema_Golf_Classic.pdf (2 MB file size). Registration is required. Call 616/281-6390 for more information or to register.

Support Groups
June 23, 30, July 7, 14, 21
Early Stage Dementia Support Group
In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Michigan Chapter, West Michigan Region, Pine Rest will offer this six week support group. The sessions will be facilitated by Christiana Getz of the Alzheimer’s Association and Suzann Ogland-Hand, PhD, Pine Rest, Director at Center of Senior Care.

The support sessions will be held on six consecutive Fridays, from 1 – 3 p.m., in the Mulder Center on Pine Rest’s main campus, 300 68th Street SE in Cutlerville.
For more information click here.

Classes and Workshops
June 27, July 11, 18, 25
Pine Rest's Anger Management For Teens
Led by Ryan LaRue, MSW, LMSW, ACSW, outpatient therapist at Pine Rest Campus Clinic. 4:15 -5:30 p.m. in the Van Andel Center on Pine Rest's main campus, 300 68th Street, SE, Grand Rapids. Open to male and female teens ages 12-17. Cost: $75/person. Call 616/222-4584 for more information or to register.
For more information click here.

Pine Rest Services

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Disclaimer

Copyright © 2006, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. All rights reserved. The contents of Mental Health News & Information are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.