University of Southern Maine professors Nancy Richeson and E. Michael Brady are preparing to offer their second class for older adults who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia. The course is designed to help students learn ways to cope with their illness. It also will allow the professors to research and evaluate whether such a course produces positive results, such as increased cognitive functioning and decreased depression.

The nine-week class, which will be offered through USM’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, will be held Fridays at the school’s Portland campus, beginning March 9 and ending May 4. The course is limited to 15 participants and is free of charge.

Entrance criteria include: (a) older adults; (b) diagnosis of mild cognitive disorder or early-stage dementia; (c) willingness to participate in a nine-week course; (c) willingness to participate in a research study as part of the course; (d) have transportation. All participants will be screened for eligibility prior to admission.

This is the second such course USM has offered for people with mild memory loss. Last fall, 12 participants completed a course titled “Health Promotion for the Mind, Body, and Spirit.” The results, reported Richeson, were overwhelmingly positive and the research demonstrated a significant increase in self-efficacy, in addition to a slight increase in mental status. The class members reported a “growth in confidence,” from participation in the course, said Richeson.

As one student stated, “Just because I have dementia does not mean I am not interested in learning and making new friends.”

For more information about the course and to enroll please contact Professor Nancy Richeson at 780-4646, or richeson@usm.maine.edu.