JMHS Educates Community on Dementia at Lunch & Learn Event

Gretchen Reeves presenting to a full house.

Forty-three community members and staff attended the latest Johnson Memorial Health Services (JMHS) Lunch and Learn on June 10th. The presentation, led by Gretchen Reeves, MA CCC-SLP, a Speech-Language Pathologist, focused on understanding and managing dementia. During the hour-long session, Reeves provided valuable insights and practical strategies for attendees.

Dementia is a group of symptoms caused by various diseases that lead to memory loss, language difficulties, and impaired visual-spatial skills and executive functioning. Different types include Alzheimer’s Disease, Vascular Disease, Lewy-Body Disease, Frontotemporal Disease, and Parkinson’s Disease.

The presentation differentiated between typical age-related changes and the symptoms of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and major neurocognitive disorder (dementia). For example, getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later is normal while losing track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time is not.

Reeves emphasized the importance of connecting with individuals rather than correcting them, adjusting expectations, and identifying triggers instead of focusing solely on behaviors. “50% of people with dementia don’t understand that they have it and never will,” said Reeves. “It’s not our job to fix them, it’s our job to enter their reality.”

Reeves discussed the importance of increasing cognitive reserve through the “6 Pillars of Brain Health,” developed by the AARP collaborative with the Global Council on Brain Health. These pillars include healthy eating, restorative sleep, regular exercise, social engagement, stress management, and brain engagement.

Individuals with cognitive concerns should discuss them with their medical provider, utilize the Medicare Annual Wellness Visit Cognitive Screening, and seek referrals to Speech Pathology and Occupational Therapy for further testing if necessary.

Upcoming Lunch and Learn Sessions

JMHS will continue its monthly Lunch and Learn series through September. The next session, “Empower Your Body: Learn the Benefits of Pelvic Floor PT,” will be held Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 12:00–1:00 PM. Bonnie Will, MA, PT, DPT, ATC, Physical Therapist and Director of Rehabilitation Services will be presenting.

RSVP by July 10 at jmhsmn.org/RSVP or call 320-769-4393 ext. 2111.