Alzheimer's Foundation of America
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The Government Shutdown: What Caregivers Should Know
As the federal government shutdown continues into its second week, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America has compiled an update on how the shutdown may impact people with Alzheimer's disease, their caregivers and families, many of whom rely on federal programs for funding and services. The breadth and scope of these effects will be largely dependent on the length of the shutdown.
The update includes the impact on Medicare and Medicaid, research and clinical trials under the National Institutes of Health, and programs funded under the Older Americans Act.
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Glen Campbell's Daughter Shares Lessons on Caregiving
Ashley Campbell, daughter of country music legend Glen Campbell, shares the lessons she's learned caring for her dad who has Alzheimer's disease, as the guest columnist in the latest issue of care ADvantage magazine.
"The experience with my dad's Alzheimer's disease has been eye-opening, and has taught me powerful lessons of life and love," she writes.
In addition, the fall 2013 issue focuses on the difficult decision caregivers face regarding long-term care placement. It includes a practical checklist to help families select a residence.
Published by AFA, the quarterly magazine is available by free subscription to family caregivers, healthcare professionals and organizations.
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News to Use
- October is National Depression Awareness Month - According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans aged 65 and older. Take note: symptoms of depression in older persons can mimic those of Alzheimer's disease.
- AFA Introduces Skype Support Group for College Students - As the number of individuals with Alzheimer's disease continues to spike, a growing number of college students are finding themselves in a caregiving role. To help them cope emotionally and practically, AFA is introducing a Skype-based support group; it will meet Tuesdays, from 2-3 p.m. EDT/EST, from October 15 through December 10. Call 866-232-8484 or e-mail for details or to register.
- Apply for the Phyllis and Milton Berg Family Respite Care Grant - Applications for the fall cycle of AFA's Phyllis and Milton Berg Family Respite Care Grant; are due December 1. The grants are awarded via a competitive application process to AFA nonprofit member organizations for respite care scholarships.
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News Updates
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Long Bouts of Delirium May Increase Alzheimer's Risk - According to new research, individuals who experience long periods of delirium during lengthy intensive care hospitalizations face a greater likelihood of developing mental impairments on par with those found in early-stage Alzheimer's disease. Read more...
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Midlife Stress May Contribute to Alzheimer's Disease - A Swedish study of 800 women during nearly 40 years has linked psychological stress during middle age to a 21 percent higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia later in life (average age: 78). Read more...
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New Peanut Butter Test May Help Diagnose Brain Disorder - Researchers at the University of Florida have unveiled a new possible way to test for Alzheimer's disease, by using peanut butter to test smell sensitivity. The ability to smell is thought to be one of the first senses affected in people with cognitive decline. Read more...
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October 10, 2013
Volume 6 Issue 20
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Alzheimer's All-Star Basketball Classic
For the fourth year in a row, elite male and female high school basketball players will go head-to-head in a charity tournament to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and its impact on caregivers. AFA is one of the beneficiaries of proceeds from the event, which will be held October 20, at Half Hollow Hills West High School, in Dix Hills, N.Y.
The Alzheimer's All-Star Basketball Classic, was founded by Gordon Thomas, a past NBA draftee whose dad had Alzheimer's disease.
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. To register as a site, click here.
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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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