Alzheimer's Association "Redefining the Quality of Life"

"Alzheimer's Awareness - Redefining the Quality of Life," November 2007, has a series of articles including "Chemistry in Our Daily Life," "Life Enrichment," "Music Therapy," "Early Stage Support Groups," "Would Care Management Help?," and "Getting What You Need."

Sara Bartlett, Caregiver Consultant, Alzheimer's Association, San Luis Obispo Office, writes "There is hope on the horizon, with nine drugs for Alzheimer's currently in clinical trials and advances in diagnostic tools." Her article, "Who We Are, What We Do," provides an overview of the Alzheimer's Association.

Below is a list of services available through the Association.

(1) Client and Family consultations in the office or home
(2) Assessment to ascertain the needs of family
(3) Long term care planning
(4) Information and referral to resources in the community
(5) Education and training tailored to the family's individual needs
(6) Practical tools for care-giving
(7) Current information on the disease
(8) Suggestions for caregiver's self-care
(9) Outreach to the community
(10)Support groups for family members, caregivers, and those with Alzheimer's
(11) Safe Return Program for identifying those with dementias that become lost
(12) Respite care Funds to help caregivers take care of themselves
(13) Services available in Spanish or English
(14) Resource library of books, videos and journals

The supplement "Alzheimer's Awareness - Redefining the Quality of Life," appeared as a supplement in "The Tribune" of San Luis Obispo County, California.

For more information you can locate your nearest Alzheimer's Association office by going to the website at alz.org.