Understanding Dementia (Part 1) – Health Expo 2025

This educational session is presented by Catherine McDermott, PMHNP, Co-Owner of Town Square University Parkway and an expert in geriatric psychiatry and cognitive decline. The presentation highlights that there are 126+ different subsets of dementia, explains how Alzheimer’s fits within the dementia spectrum, and clarifies what mixed dementia is and how symptoms progress. Catherine addresses why the healthcare system often has limited resources and long wait times despite rising rates of dementia, highlighting that 1 in 6 adults over age 65 is living with some form of dementia. The session also covers the pathophysiology of dementia, lifestyle and environmental risk factors, diagnostic methods, the seven stages of dementia, and real examples, such as why taking a shower involves 43 separate cognitive steps. Catherine discusses processing times, communication strategies, activities of daily living, care management, and the importance of structured support and respite care.

About Town Square University Parkway – Town Square University Parkway offers dementia-friendly adult day services, medical support, caregiver education, respite opportunities, and community programs and events for Sarasota and Manatee County. Our mission is to provide compassionate, engaging, and clinically informed care for adults living with dementia while supporting families with resources and guidance.