Worried about dementia? How Pittsburgh’s Jewish community can help

Have you noticed changes in the memory or thinking skills of someone important to you? Many people occasionally forget things as they age, especially when they are stressed or sick. However, if someone is consistently or increasingly having trouble remembering, experiencing confusion, or finding it hard to do everyday tasks, it may be a sign that they are developing dementia.

Dementia is not a specific disease. It is an umbrella term describing a wide range of symptoms that are associated with a decline in memory and other thinking skills and severe enough to interfere with daily life. There are more than 100 different types of dementia, which is caused by diseases that gradually destroy brain cells.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of cases. Other types include dementia with Lewy bodies, frontotemporal dementia, and vascular dementia. Each type affects the brain differently and can lead to distinct patterns of symptoms, which is why no two individuals experience dementia in the same way.

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As people age, it is common to experience slowing in thought processes and occasional forgetfulness. Misplacing keys, forgetting a name, or needing more time to learn a new skill are examples of age-related changes.

In contrast, dementia involves more persistent and disruptive changes that affect daily functioning. Someone living with dementia may forget the names of close family members, have trouble following directions, or become disoriented in familiar environments.

Common signs of dementia

Although the symptoms of dementia vary based on the individual and the type, there are early warning signs:

• Memory loss: Forgetting recently learned information or asking the same question repeatedly

• Difficulty concentrating: Having a hard time paying attention or problem-solving, such as following a recipe

• Challenges with daily tasks: Difficulty with familiar routines, like handling money, using a phone, or managing medications

• Communication challenges: Having trouble finding the right word or following a conversation
• Disorientation: Getting confused about the time, date, or location

• Mood or behavior changes: Increased anxiety, depression, irritability, or withdrawal from social activities

Recognizing these early warning signs can lead to a timely medical evaluation and diagnosis. If you suspect dementia, it is essential to consult with a health care professional. Early diagnosis allows for better planning and access to support services that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Resources in the Jewish community

For individuals living with dementia and those important to them, community resources can make a difference. There are several programs and services available in the Pittsburgh Jewish community to assist people at various stages of memory loss.

• Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania (dementiafriendlypa.org): This program of the Jewish Healthcare Foundation aims to reduce stigma and promote inclusion through two initiatives:

o Dementia Friends Pennsylvania: Offers free, 60-minute informational sessions to change how people think, act and talk about dementia. Sessions are open to community members of all ages and help raise awareness while promoting empathy and understanding.

o Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania Communities: Supports communities across Pennsylvania that actively work to be informed, safe, respectful and inclusive of people living with dementia and those important to them.

• Memory Café at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh (bit.ly/jccmemorycafe): A memory café is a welcoming social gathering for people living with dementia and their care partners, family and friends. It provides a safe, relaxed and supportive space to enjoy conversation, music and activities. The monthly memory café at the Squirrel Hill JCC, with JHF support, fosters connection and community in a judgment-free setting, and is expanding to the South Hills JCC this summer.

• Jewish Association on Aging (jaapgh.org/memory-care): The JAA provides comprehensive memory care services including:

o Anathan Adult Day Memory Care: Individuals who live at home can spend the day on the JAA campus participating in engaging activities designed for people living with dementia. This program supports participants and their care partners, especially those who work or need time for themselves.

o Ahava Memory Care Residence: A specialized assisted living community offering person-centered care in a secure, home-like environment designed to meet the unique needs of those living with dementia.

If you are concerned about a loved one’s memory or behavior, you are not alone — and you don’t have to navigate this journey by yourself. From understanding the signs of dementia to accessing meaningful support, your awareness can make a difference. PJC

Stacie Bails-Bonenberger, MOT, OTR/L is a statewide coordinator for Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania and program manager of Aging Initiatives at the Jewish Healthcare Foundation.