It might start small – maybe your mom or dad forgets a birthday, or the cable bill goes unpaid for a month. It might seem like the type of thing that can slip anyone's mind.

But soon it progresses to more consistent forgetfulness. Maybe they go for a walk and then can't remember how to get home. Maybe their spending habits change, and suddenly more purchases are showing up at the door that they don't remember buying.

Before long, they receive a diagnosis that may not be surprising but is still devastating - Alzheimer's disease or some other dementia.

A diagnosis of a cognitive condition means that often the adult child has to assume the role of parent, as they care for their loved one who may not be able to live alone anymore. The demands of taking on that responsibility are stark – from worrying about nighttime wanderings to managing their finances. It might become a second full-time job on top of one they might already have.

If you find yourself in that position, know that you're not alone. The Alzheimer's Association estimates there are over 11 million Americans currently providing unpaid care to people living with Alzheimer's Disease or dementia – in other words, family members or spouses who have taken on the responsibility.

If you have a loved one with a diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease or dementia, or you are just concerned about cognitive decline, you will probably benefit from a free webinar presented by Prestige Assisted Living at Visalia at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, August 24.

David Troxel, MPH, will host the webinar entitled "Dementia - Lessons Learned through Purposeful Engagement," which will help provide caregivers with tools and strategies in caring for their loved one.

To sign up for the free webinar, visit http://www.prestigecanhelp.com