Alzheimer's Foundation of America
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Federal Commission on Long-Term Care Releases Recommendations
The Federal Commission on Long-Term Care, which was established under the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012--to develop a plan for the establishment, implementation and financing of a comprehensive, high-quality system of long term care services and supports (LTSS)--recently finalized its recommendations.
The recommendations include aligning incentives to improve the integration of LTSS and health services in a person- and family-centered approach; developing a national strategy to maintain and strengthen family caregiving; and payment reform that promotes payment for post-acute and LTSS based on the service rather than the setting.
"The recommendations set forth by the Long Term Care Commission begin to address some of the challenges confronted by the 5.1 million Americans who have Alzheimer's disease and their family caregivers," said Carol Steinberg, president of AFA. "Still, we must do more to work toward a comprehensive, federal program that ensures universal access to quality, long-term care services and supports for all Americans." |
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AFA Unveils New Support for Younger Generation of Caregivers
As the number of people with Alzheimer's disease continues to climb, a new and younger generation of caregivers is facing the challenges of managing cognitive and behavioral symptoms associated with the illness.
To help them cope with the practical and emotional aspects of their role, AFA is introducing two new support groups this fall: a Skype-based support group for college students caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or a related illness; and a telephone-based support group for spouses of individuals with young-onset Alzheimer's disease.
The eight-week support group for college students will take place via Skype on Tuesdays, from 2-3 p.m. EDT/EST, from October 15 through December 10. For spouses of individuals with young-onset Alzheimer's disease, the telephone-based support group will run for six weeks, on Mondays beginning November 4, from 3-4 p.m. EST.
Space is limited and registration is required. For more information, call 866-232-8484 or e-mail info@alzfdn.org.
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Singer Brendan James to Headline October 10 Benefit
For the ninth year, AFA will host its annual "For the Love of George" cocktail party and concert in New York on October 10. Singer/songwriter Brendan James will perform.
In the above video, James explains why people should attend. Tickets are $100 for general admission and $150 for VIP admission, and can be purchased at tktwb.tw/12c5QCC or by calling 866-232-8484. |
News to Use
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Relaxation Tips for Caregivers - AFA's next monthly Care Connection teleconference will help caregivers take a break. On October 10, from 1-2 p.m. EDT, AFA licensed social workers will share tips to help family and professional caregivers relax while managing daily responsibilities. To dial in, call toll-free: 877-594-8353 and use guest identification 46692951#.
- FDA Will Regulate Smartphone Apps - The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it will begin regulating certain apps and gadgets for smartphones that provide tests and functions, such as heart monitors and blood pressure cuffs, typically performed by healthcare professionals.
- Government Offers Preparedness Tips - As part of National Preparedness Month (September), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is offering information and resources to help ensure individuals stay safe when disaster strikes. Tips range from taking a first aid or CPR class, to loading preparedness apps on smartphones.
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News Updates
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Gene Mutations Linked to Late-Onset Alzheimer's Disease - Scientists have identified two rare mutations in the human gene called ADAM10 that lead to the most common, late-onset variant of Alzheimer's disease. Research suggests that this gene makes an enzyme called alpha-secretase, which cuts the amyloid precursor protein (APP) to prevent the formation of beta-amyloid. Read more...
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New Report Highlights Global Need for Caregiver, Family Support - According to "The World Alzheimer Report 2013 'Journey of Caring: An Analysis of Long-Term Care for Dementia'," the traditional system of informal care that is provided by family, friends and other informal caregivers will require much greater support as the world population ages. At this time, globally, 13 percent of people 60 and older need long-term care. The report estimates that between 2010 and 2050, the total number of older people with care needs will nearly triple from 101 million to 277 million. Read more...
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September 26, 2013
Volume 6 Issue 19
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Rose Feneck,
Norwell, Mass.
Rose Feneck, of Norwell, Mass., recently raised nearly $1,000 for AFA by hosting a country dance. Feneck cared for her mother who had Alzheimer's disease at home for nine years before placing her in a nursing home. Her mom passed away at age 92.
Since then, Feneck wanted to do something to help advance the cause and to give back.
With the local VFW hall as the venue, the event featured a live band, raffles for handmade jewelry and afghans and a memory table, where Feneck displayed photos of her mom.
AFA's National Commemorative Candle Lighting Weekend of Prayer will take place November 15-17. This annual event offers an opportunity to remember and honor Americans who have been or will be affected by Alzheimer's disease or related illnesses. To host a local candle lighting ceremony, click here. AFA's National Memory Screening Day
On November 19, organizations across the country, such as Alzheimer's agencies, senior centers, long-term care facilities and hospitals, will participate in AFA's National Memory Screening Day.
These sites will offer free, confidential memory screenings-administered by qualified healthcare professionals.
AFA provides registered sites with a toolkit of educational, marketing and other materials to seamlessly carry out the event. For more information, click here.
Sign the
Stop Alzheimer's Petition
Speak out now against Alzheimer's disease. Together we can become a chorus of voices echoing through the halls of Washington, DC, speaking for those who are in the shadows.
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The Legacy SocietyAFA's Legacy Society offers special recognition to individuals who have included AFA in their wills or estate plans.
Support AFA Monthly
Donors can now make recurring monthly donations to AFA, which will be automatically deducted from your credit card each month. You may cancel at any time.
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