Navigating Uncertain Terrain: Driving and Dementia
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Compassionate Solutions for Safety
This weekend, as we embark on the unofficial start of summer, our thoughts turn to road trips, an intrinsic part of the season for many Americans. But while hitting the open road is routine for some, it can become anything but when Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia enters the picture. For people with Alzheimer's disease, at some point, decreased memory and judgment, impaired visual and spatial abilities, inability to pay attention, and other symptoms can pose safety issues--to the driver with dementia, to passengers, other motorists and pedestrians. Watching for signs that it might be time to "take away the keys" is critical. Family caregivers and healthcare professionals agree that when a person with the brain disorder must move--willingly or unwillingly--from driver to passenger, it is often one of the most difficult challenges of the disease. It represents yet another loss-of independence, spontaneity and self-esteem. The Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) recently released a "A Roadmap to Alzheimer's Disease and Driving," as part of its "Your Time to Care" educational DVD series. ,The DVD offers step-by-step strategies to help family members intervene when driving could pose a danger, advice from healthcare professionals, and tips from family caregivers who have "been there." The DVD is available from the AFA Store for $34.95. "Your Time to Care" DVD Series
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Article Offers a New Perspective on Alzheimer's Epidemic
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Illustrates Disparities in Awareness
"The New York Times" recently published a thought-provoking piece, in which it deemed Alzheimer's disease a "neglected epidemic."
The article points out how AIDS and breast cancer moved into our social consciousness during the 1980s, and subsequently resulted in enormous strides on the cure and treatment fronts for both disease states.
In contrast, the article notes that despite the rising the incidence of Alzheimer's disease, there has been no similar social movement to prioritize the treatment and cure of the brain disorder. Read the Article
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Groove to the Motown Sound to Support AFA
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Musicians Play Tribute Concert
Legendary New York City music venue The Bitter End will host the next in its "Leave a Lasting Mark" concert series--a tribute to Motown music--to benefit AFA on June 5. In this concert series, top local musicians honor influential artists and genres to raise money for charity and build a deeper sense of community. Tickets for the show, which takes place from 7-9 p.m., are available for a $10 suggested minimum donation at the door. For more information, please contact Josie DiChiara, AFA's vice president-external relations. More Info
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Care Connection: Finding Joy, Purpose and Fulfillment as a Dementia Caregiver
Join us June 12, from 1-2 p.m. EDT for Care Connection, AFA's monthly free caregiver teleconference. This month's guest host Laura Wayman, author of "A Loving Approach to Dementia Care," will share strategies to help caregivers find happiness and value in their caregiving experiences. To join, call toll-free: 877-594-8353 and use guest identification number:46692951#.
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"Longevity Gene" Linked to Better Cognition in Mice
A new study suggests that there may be a link between a lifespan-related gene variant and cognitive skills. Mice with an abundance of the gene variant, via genetic engineering, lived longer and performed better on learning and memory tests, regardless of age. Read more...
Brain Injuries Spur Increase in Emergency Room Visits
New research reveals that emergency room visits for people with traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, rose nearly 30 percent between 2006 and 2010. The study also notes that the increase may be due to greater awareness and better diagnosis of brain injuries. Read more...
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Fundraiser Spotlight
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Jared Shure
New York, N.Y.
On his mark! Last weekend, Jared Shure, of New York, ran the Brooklyn (N.Y.) Half Marathon to raise money for AFA in honor of his mother, Floreen Shure, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in December 2011, at 59 years old. Shure learned of AFA's mission from his fiancée, Ryann Engel, who is a member of AFA's New York Junior Committee. He set a goal of $4,500, and encouraged friends and family to donate via Facebook posts and a community fundraising page on AFA's Website. Shure surpassed his goal by nearly $2,000, raising a total of $6,350. Learn More About Fundraising for AFA | |
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Member Spotlight
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Silver Ridge Memory Support
Gretna, Neb.
For residents at Silver Ridge Memory Support community in Gretna, Neb., activities include some "basics"--like exercise classes and religious services--and then some.
It also offers visits from a beautician, ice cream socials, a monthly on-site petting zoo provided by a local ranch, and monthly courtyard parties, each with a different theme.
This month's courtyard party is a sock hop, featuring 50s music, burgers, fries and shakes. The facility's life enrichment coordinator, Julie Brown, is even hoping to round up a poodle skirt so she can deliver the food on roller skates.
"We try to offer activities that take our residents back to the times they most remember and experiences they've enjoyed," she said.
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Upcoming Events
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5 Boroughs Concepts in Care
September 12, New York City
AFA's third "5 Boroughs Concepts in Care" conference will be held at the Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel in New York City.
This free, educational conference offers separate tracks of study for family caregivers, healthcare professionals and individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Free respite care will be available on-site.
The conference also features memory screenings, an exhibit hall, and a display of the AFA Quilt to Remember. For information about sponsorships or exhibiting, contact Josie DiChiara at 866-232-8484 x112.
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