KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -
At the First Baptist Church of Raytown, pieces of the Alzheimer's Foundation's "Quilt to Remember" represent experiences of many families - an estimated 6,500 in Kansas City alone.
One such family that has benefited immensely from training that will be offered Friday talks about their situation.
Silence is a rare thing in Denise Littrell's home.
The moment 2-year-old grandchild Emerson quiets down, daughter Kara arrives home. Kara looks much younger than her 26 years of age and she has limited verbal skills.
"Hi grandma," Kara shouts excitedly when she enters the house.
Generation number four is Angelynne Klobucar. She's 90 and has Alzheimer's disease.
"It's very sad because it starts to strip people of their memory and their personality. But there are so many things that they are capable still of doing," Denise Littrell said.
What Denise Littrell's mom still does best makes her an ideal companion for the little one who calls her "granny great."
"She's very capable at nurturing and loving and she does that great," Denise Littrell said.
But it's more than just compassion, flexibility and occasional hired help that makes the set-up work.
Denise Littrell studied the disease her mother has in a hands-on workshop and learned about a lot of little things that have helped.
"(I learned) how turning on an overhead light can be obnoxious to someone. You should just turn on the bedroom lamp next to them," she said.
"Because when the brain gets irritated and flustered, it works less," said Melissa Moran with Senior Helpers.
Moran, a professional caregiver, said memory loss is just the first stage of what is actually a much broader brain deterioration and Denise Littrell learned the slightest agitation can turn an entire day upside down.
"I didn't know there are different ways to hold onto the hand to lead them around," she said.
Caring for someone with Alzheimer's is not second nature and it's not easy, but it is doable and rewarding when it works out.
"I want them to think, ‘Yes you can.' If you have the supports that you have," Denise Littrell said. "If we didn't try having my mom at home - look at the bond. They're (motions to her grandchild and Klobucar) such great friends. It's so loving."
The free workshop is from 6-8 p.m. Friday at First Baptist Church of Raytown, located at 10500 West 350 Highway in Raytown, MO.
A select number of seats are available. Please pre-register by clicking here.
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