Understanding the difference between normal forgetfulness and memory loss is important in assessing safety risks to patients and clients, says Rosemary Fiss, manager of education and support programs at the Alzheimer Society of Windsor & Essex County.

She will provide an overview of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, including warning signs, in a free public presentation on Monday, October 17. Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia runs 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in room 203 of the Toldo Health Education Centre. Attendees are welcome to bring a lunch.

Monday’s session is the first of two this semester organized by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) Open School for Health Professionals. Its mandate is to advance quality improvement and patient safety competencies in the next generation of professionals employed in health care settings. All disciplines are invited to join. Find more information, including event registration, on the Web site of the local chapter.