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The annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s is just around the corner. Is your team ready? (Check out my previous post for lots of ideas on how to recruit team members!)
The Alzheimer’s Association sponsors this walk in communities all across the USA on a variety of dates between August and November. With a distance of 2-3 miles, people of all ages and abilities participate. You can find a walk near you through the search bar on their website.
While there is no registration fee, individuals and teams raise donations to help support the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association:
- To eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research
- To provide and enhance care and support for all affected
- To reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health
I’ve participated in these walks multiple times, and here’s why I believe this is a great organization to support.
Alzheimer’s Helpline
Anyone can call the 24-hour helpline (1-800-272-3900) for accurate information and support at any time of the day or night. Help is available with questions and problem-solving. In addition, they can direct you to an array of resources such as home care services, legal assistance, and transportation options.
What many people don’t realize is that the helpline is also a great resource for healthcare professionals. Several years ago when I was working as a nurse, a woman was admitted to our memory care unit from a group home. Her diagnoses included Down syndrome and more recently Alzheimer’s disease. Since I had little experience with Down syndrome, I called the Alzheimer’s Association for advice on how to develop her plan of care. They were very helpful.
Support Groups
Trained volunteers or professionals facilitate Alzheimer’s disease support groups. Attendees include people living with dementia and/or their caregivers. They also offer support services and special events for children and teens. You can find links to resources in your community on their website.
Virtual Library
The Alzheimer’s Association provides an enormous virtual library of books, journals, DVDs, and other educational resources. If you prefer, you can also purchase or borrow many items through their local offices.
Research
The Alzheimer’s Association is a major sponsor of research aimed at prevention, treatment, and finding a cure for various types of dementia. I shared information about their TrialMatch program in a previous post.
Education
Services include online classes, local workshops, and national conferences. As an example, a speaker from the Alzheimer’s Association once came to our nursing home and shared an excellent presentation about brain health. Feedback from staff and residents was very positive.
Are you participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s this year? Please let me know in the comment section!
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