Hudson Valley Program Catalog

Hudson Valley Program Catalog alz.org/hudsonvalley • 800.272.3900 This catalog is supported in part by a grant from the Marion Esser Kaufmann Foundation.

Introduction Hello, I’m David Sobel, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter. I’m happy to welcome you to the our chapter’s programs and services catalog. We want you to know that we are here in the community to support families living with Alzheimer’s and dementia in a variety of ways, and this catalog will offer an overview of how we can help you, your loved ones and others you know who are affected. From care consultations with licensed professionals, to support groups and educational programs for the general public, we are here for you. If you are among the families touched by dementia, your loved ones may also benefit from our social programs, which help lessen the isolation that can result when someone is living with dementia. And if you aren’t living with dementia, but would like to learn more about our organization and its mission, we are here for you as well. There are many ways to get involved and help us raise awareness and funds to support our programs, advocacy and research.

Hello, I’m Meg Boyce, Vice President of Programs and Services for the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter. Thank you for your interest in learning more about us. We are an information, referral and support organization supporting Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties. All our programs and services — with the exception of our biannual Meeting of the Minds Dementia Conference — are free to families in need of support and guidance dealing with any form of dementia; it doesn’t have to be Alzheimer’s disease for us to help. We are here to support families through all stages of their dementia journey, from even before a diagnosis through the final decisions that have to be made. We hope this catalog will help you become familiar with what we do, so that if you find yourself needing support or have concerns that a loved one may be developing dementia, you will know where to turn. We are always just a call or click away.

Our 24/7 Helpline is available any time, day or night, at 800.272.3900. Information and helpful classes for caregivers are also available on our website at alz.org/care.

Helpful information

Sign up for our free e-newsletter Stay up-to-date on the latest news and advances in Alzheimer’s treatments, care and research. Get tips for living with Alzheimer’s as well as simple ideas on how you can support the fight to end Alzheimer’s. We do not share email addresses with third parties. Visit our website at alz.org and click on the link for e-news.

1

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s

Memory loss that disrupts daily life

5 Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

9 Withdrawal from work or social activities

2 Challenges in planning or solving problems

6 New problems with words in speaking or writing

10 Changes in mood and personality

3 Difficulty completing familiar tasks.

7 Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

4 Confusion wtih time or space

8 Decreased or poor judgment

CARE CONSULTATIONS High-quality dementia care requires planning Our experts can help you get started

Caring for a person with dementia is a life-encompassing experience. Many people may be involved: The person with dementia, family members and friends in the care team. It requires thought, strategy and — most importantly — a plan.

During a care consultation, Alzheimer’s Association staff can help you: • Navigate difficult caregiving decisions and family issues • Assess current needs and anticipate future care challenges • Develop an effective care plan and problem-solve barriers • Offer supportive listening in a confidential, nonjudgmental environment

Support groups are a safe place to share with others

• Alzheimer’s Association support groups, conducted by trained facilitators, are a safe place for people living with dementia and their caregivers to: • Develop a support system.

• Exchange practical information on challenges and possible solutions.

• Talk through issues and ways of coping.

• Share feelings, needs and concerns.

• Learn about community resources.

Call us at 800.272.3900 to learn about available groups and how to participate.

Guest column: Getting a diagnosis Early diagnosis offers broader options

By Dr. Jessica Zwerling As we grow older, it’s natural to forget things from time to time, like the name of the actor or actress in your favorite television series.

It can be part of the normal aging process.

But if you or someone you know thinks your forgetfulness is getting in the way of your daily routine, talk to your doctor. It may be that you’re just worrying too much. Or that your memory lapses are because of a medical condition you may not even know you have. Or they could be a side effect of medicine you are taking.

But, yes, it could be the beginning of Alzheimer’s disease. It’s important to know as soon as possible, for you and your loved ones, who may have to provide care and support for you.

Early diagnosis provides access to increased treatment options. It gives you time to plan for needed health care services and consider housing and financial options, to make lifestyle changes to keep you safe and make choices that can reduce health care costs over the long term. You may even be able to be part of a clinical trial

that could help slow the progress of the disease. And you certainly can learn about support services convenient to where you live that can help you and your caregivers.

Montefiore one of 10 CEADs Fortunately, New York State has been a pioneer in supporting programs that focus on early diagnosis, treatment and supportive services. Montefiore Health System, where we work, is one of 10 health care facilities named by the Department of Health as a Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease.

The goals of the CEAD program, as it is known, are to expand knowledge about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, improve access to screening, diagnosis and clinical trial opportunities, ensure that patients and their caregivers are referred to community-based support services and support clinicians of all types who care for people with Alzheimer’s disease with training about the latest diagnostic techniques and methods of treatment.

Montefiore and the other CEADs work to make sure that all patients receive care appropriate for their cultural backgrounds in languages they understand. We provide care by a team of doctors and other specialists who perform

detailed testing and thorough physical examinations. You might be seen by a neurologist, a geriatrician, a neuropsychologist and other experts in caring for older adults and cases of dementia.

The team also includes care coordinators who make sure that their patients—and their caregivers—are connected to support services such as those offered by the Alzheimer’s Association. We treat not only our patients, but those family members who care for them as one. We call it a dyad — a word that means a single thing with two parts.

Knowing as early as possible what you are dealing with can help you and your caregivers get the best care and treatment and practical tips and support services to help you live with your condition in the best possible way.

Dr. Jessica Zwerling is Director of the Montefiore Hudson Valley Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease (CEAD). She is also Associate Professor of Neurology and Program Director at UCNS, Geriatric Neurology Fellowship Director, Memory Disorders Center at Blondell; Associate Director, Center for the Aging Brain and Clinical Director, Einstein Aging Study.

ALZHEIMER’S

Visit alz.org/facts for the latest numbers.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Partnering to Strengthen Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Systemic racial and social injustice permeate all aspects of society and are intertwined with the causes of health disparities, including the disproportionate prevalence of Alzheimer’s among Black, Hispanic and other diverse communities.

Research shows that older Hispanics are about one and a half times as likely as older Whites to have Alzheimer’s and other dementias, while older Black Americans are about twice as likely. It is also clear that these disparities are related to less access to important healthprotecting resources such as quality care and social networks that provide valuable health information and support. The lack of those resources, as well as social and environmental factors, lead to disparities in other health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, raising risk for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

At the Alzheimer’s Association, diversity and inclusion are vital to

our mission.

National Partners • African Methodist Episcopal Church • American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN) • Association of Black Women Physicians (ABWP) • Black Nurses Rock Foundation • Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated • GW Institute for Brain Health and Dementia • Mexican Consulate and Ventanilla de Salud • National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) • National Association of Hispanic Nurses • National Caucus and our mission. The Association leads strategic initiatives to support diversity and a culture of inclusivity. These strategic initiatives also strengthen outreach to all populations, providing communities with

Caregiver Resources

Time Away Grants: The Alzheimer’s Association offers financial aid to qualified caregivers for respite care for their loved one with dementia so they can have time to care for themselves.

• • • • • • • • •

Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA) National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) National Football League Alumni Association (NFLA) National Hispanic Medical Association National Hispanic Council on Aging National Indian Council on Aging, Inc. (NICOA) Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Services and Advocacy for LGBT Elders Thurgood Marshall College Fund Tzu Chi USA

resources and support to address the Alzheimer’s crisis.

By partnering with organizations locally and nationally to advance diversity and inclusion, the Association seeks to broaden its reach in all communities.

Safety Services: The Alzheimer’s Association, in collaboration with MedicAlert® Foundation, provides membership plans with 24/7 Wandering Support.

Call 800.272.3900 for more information.

Bring Purple Sunday to your church

Purple Sunday is a faith-based initiative that seeks to raise Alzheimer’s awareness in communities of color through houses of worship. To learn how you can get involved and support your community, call the Alzheimer’s Association at 800.272.3900 or email Jessica Flores at jmflores@alz.org.

Visit PurpleSunday.org to learn more.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t easy.

Reaching us is.

If you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss or dementia, you are not alone.

We’re here for you day or night — whenever you need us — offering reliable information and support.

800.272.3900 • alz.org/care

RACE, ETHNICITY AND ALZHEIMER’S IN AMERICA

Blacks are about

TWICE as likely to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia than Whites

Hispanics are about

1.5 TIMES times as likely to have Alzheimer’s or another dementia than Whites

HALF OR MORE caregivers of color say they have faced discrimination when navigating health care settings for their care recipient:

61%

of Black Americans

63%

of Native Americans

47%

of Asian Americans

56%

of Hispanic Americans

THIS YEAR, MORE THAN 6 MILLION AMERICANS ARE LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S The disease can affect racial and ethnic groups differently, and many individuals face unique challenges in receiving care

DISCRIMINATION

is a barrier to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

These populations reported discrimination when seeking health care:

50%

42%

34%

33%

of Black Americans

of Native Americans

of Asian Americans

of Hispanic Americans

An overwhelming majority of people of color in America say it’s important for dementia care providers to understand their ethnic or racial background, yet fewer than

3 IN 5

Hispanics, Blacks and Native Americans are

TWICE

as likely as Whites to say they would not see a doctor if experiencing thinking or memory problems

feel confident they have access to culturally competent providers

ONLY 53%

of Black Americans trust a future cure for Alzheimer’s will be shared equally regardless of race, color or ethnicity

© 2021 Alzheimer's Association® | All Rights Reserved Alzheimer's Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.

KNOWLEDGE AND STIGMA about Alzheimer’s varies widely. These groups showed different levels of concern about developing Alzheimer’s:

35%

of Black Americans

25%

of Native Americans

46%

of Asian Americans

41%

of Hispanic Americans

JOIN US! HudsonValleyWalks.org

SUBZERO HEROES Berean Lake, Highland Join us to get cold for a great cause! Be a Hero and take the frigid plunge into Berean Lake in Highland.

Or be a Sidekick, who helps a Hero raise money. All funds raised go to the Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter! Learn more and sign up at subzeroheroes.org

The Longest Day® is the day with the most light — the summer solstice. And it’s the day the Alzheimer’s Association® calls on everyone to fight Alzheimer’s disease by raising funds and awareness for care, support and research.

On June 21, stand up to the darkness of Alzheimer’s.

Together, the strength of our light will outshine the darkness of Alzheimer’s.

START NOW. SELECT YOUR ACTIVITY AT ALZ.ORG/THELONGESTDAY.

Guest column: Driving & Dementia

By David Stamberg

We’ve all done it; gotten ourselves lost while traveling to an unfamiliar area, or even losing our car in a crowded parking lot.

Some of us (myself included) have even gotten lost while using a GPS. But for an older driver who starts getting lost in otherwise familiar areas, memory decline can be a very significant warning sign that danger may lie ahead.

For obvious reasons, when we discuss age-related diminished driving skills in older adults, we tend to focus on the physical attributes of safe driving (vision, reflexes, strength, flexibility, hearing, etc.) and may overlook the crucial role memory plays in keeping older drivers safe.

Older drivers (and sometimes their family members) have asked “As long as I’m still a good driver, so what if I get lost? At most, it might create an inconvenience, but it certainly doesn’t create a safety hazard.” Unfortunately, this philosophy can sometimes be the furthest thing from the truth.

Memory is part of the larger brain function known as

executive functioning. Executive functioning has been referred to as the brain’s CEO, and its primary duty is to oversee such cognitive abilities as planning, concentrating and not becoming distracted, multi-tasking, estimating time, problem-solving, making appropriate decisions, prioritizing information — and of course, memory.

For any one of us, a significant decline in our memory can lead to disaster if we continue to drive without first making appropriate adjustments in our driving behavior and habits. Continuing to drive while ignoring noticeable memory decline can lead to tragedy, either through a car accident, or by unknowingly becoming an excellent candidate for a victim of crime.

As they find themselves unaware of their surroundings, they are likely to develop a strong case of tunnel vision. The older driver may morph into a state of confusion, frustration and fear. They lose their ability to focus on the task at hand (the physical act of driving) and instead, concentrate on getting themselves back to familiar surroundings. In this case, the older driver’s ability to focus on driving has been overwhelmed by their desire to re-orient themselves. In many cases, the individual may become scared, and often tragedy becomes imminent.

On a normal trip and in familiar surroundings, this same individual is likely to be a very good driver.

But now lost and confused, scared and distracted, driving focus has gone out the window in hopes of simply regaining their bearings.

Older drivers that get lost may become confused and distracted by their unnerving circumstances. It should be noted that an

Guest column: Driving & Dementia older driver diagnosed with Mild Cognitive Impairment (different than dementia) may still be able to continue driving safely. An article by WebMD reported that “A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia does not mean that the person needs to stop driving immediately.” The article goes on to suggest that the individual’s condition be reassessed every six months because the disease is likely to progress. A study by the Capital District Health Authority & Dalhousie University (Halifax, NS, Canada), found that within five years of diagnosis, approximately 50 percent of those diagnosed with dementia

For more information To learn more about the “Beyond Driving with Dignity program, visit www.beyonddrivingwithdignity.com.

will be involved in a motor vehicle accident.

Working memory is an important driving quality that enables a mature driver to perform such functions as follow directions, rules and regulations, make good decisions while behind the wheel, and, of course, not getting lost.

Memory is critically important to an older driver’s safety. If you have an aging loved one who is getting lost driving to otherwise familiar locations, it may be time

to give further consideration to the individual’s ability to remain safe as a driver. Senior Care Authority’s exclusive “Beyond Driving with Dignity” program is a valuable resource in helping determine if someone is at risk of being in a vehicle accident.

David Stamberg is an owner of Senior Care Authority, an elder consulting company that emphasizes senior living placement assistance. He covers Orange and Rockland counties in New York.

He is a certified senior advisor, a certified dementia practitioner and certified “Beyond Driving with Dignity” professional.

A CURE IS THE GOAL. YOU ARE THE HOPE.

For people living with dementia, and those personally affected by it, participating in research is one way to take action and make a difference. By participating, you can help accelerate progress and provide valuable insight into potential treatments and methods of prevention. TrialMatch® provides customized lists of clinical studies to help you find which studies are a good fit for you or a family member.

alz.org/trialmatch | 800.272.3900

Become an Alzheimer’s Advocate today!

Help us reach out to lawmakers and urge them to support legislation benefitting families touched by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Contact nysadvocacy@alz.org or visit alzimpact.org/volunteer to get involved.

@nyalz

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

VOLUNTEER WITH THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION

Millions of Americans are impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, and you can do something to help by becoming an Alzheimer’s Association volunteer. Our ability to reach and support those affected depends on people like you who are dedicated to the fight against this disease. As an Association volunteer, you can use your unique talents to make a meaningful impact in your community while connecting with others who share your passion. Find the role that’s the best fit for you.

Are you interested in: Connecting with a variety of people in your area?

Teaching caregivers about Alzheimer’s?

Organizing social activities for people with Alzheimer’s?

Helping community members find programs and services?

Creating a safe environment where people can share feelings and experiences?

Advocating for people affected by Alzheimer’s?

Inviting others to join the cause?

Raising funds to advance the fight to end Alzheimer’s?

Getting started is easy! Sign up at alz.org/volunteer Questions? Call the Alzheimer’s Association at 800.272.3900.

Educational programs available For the general public 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s Early diagnosis gives people with Alzheimer’s disease a chance to make key decisions about treatment, care and planning and the power to make choices about their own health and future. This program increases awareness of the benefits of early Alzheimer’s detection, and offers information about memory loss and normal aging, Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Also learn about the risk factors,10 warning signs, the diagnostic process and resources to help.

Dementia Conversations

This program offers helpful tips to assist families with difficult conversations related to dementia, including going to the doctor, deciding when to stop driving and making legal and financial plans.

It is primarily for those with a family member or close friend starting to experience Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research At any age, there are lifestyle habits we can adopt to help maintain or even potentially improve our health. These may also help to keep our brains healthy as we age and possibly delay the onset of cognitive decline. This workshop covers cognitive activity, exercise, diet/nutrition and social engagement. Drawing on the latest research, this program explores steps to take to improve or maintain overall health in each area.

Introduction to Alzheimer’s This program touches on a range of topics including the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as well as risk factors, warning signs, resources and how you can join the fight against the disease.

Program listings at alz.org/hudsonvalley or alz.org/crf

Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances If you or someone you know is facing Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or another chronic illness, it’s never too early to put financial plans in place. This program offers tips for managing someone else’s finances, guidance on how to prepare for future care costs and the benefits of early planning.

Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alzheimer’s is not normal aging; it’s a brain disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Learn about the impact of Alzheimer’s, the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, Alzheimer’s disease stages and risk factors, current research, treatments available to address some symptoms and Alzheimer’s Association resources.

Call 800.272.3900 or visit alz.org/crf for more information.

These programs are supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

Programs for caregivers Effective Communication Strategies Individuals living with dementia often experience changes in behavior that can be confusing to their caregivers. For caregivers, learning to decode messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language can help both parties connect in meaningful ways. This program helps explain the communication changes that take place in a person with dementia and identify strategies to connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.

Find programs at alz.org/crf

Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior

During the middle stage of dementia, the person with the disease often starts to exhibit new behaviors that can be confusing for a caregiver. These behaviors are actually a form of communication, and are essential to understanding the needs of the person with dementia. This program helps attendees identify common triggers for common behaviors associated with dementia and learn strategies for addressing these behaviors.

Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers

When someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, friends and family have many questions. What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made? What resources are available to help?

As the disease progresses, new questions reflect growing needs for skills, programs and services.

Living with Alzheimer’s for Caregivers is a series of educational programs that provide answers to the questions that arise in the various stages of the disease. Topics covered will include developing a care team, legal and financial planning, coping strategies, care and treatment options, communicating and connecting and maximizing independence.

The programs are two or three sessions long.

• Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers: Early-Stage (three sessions) • Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers: Middle-Stage (three sessions) • Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers: Late-Stage (two sessions)

For people with early-stage Alzheimer’s These programs are each a three-part series for people in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is life-changing and leads to many questions. What will this mean for me and my family? How do I plan for the future? Where can I get the help I need? We will discuss what you need to know, what you need to plan and what you can

do as you navigate this chapter of your life.

The following programs are two to three sessions.

Session lengths can be tailored to fit your needs.

• Living with Alzheimer’s: For people with Alzheimer’s • Living with Alzheimer’s: For younger-onset Alzheimer’s

Call 800.272.3900 for more information.

These programs are supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

Social Programs The Alzheimer’s Association offers a variety of social programs both through the Hudson Valley and regionally across N.Y. state to help people with dementia and their loved ones have fun and meaningful experiences while meeting new friends.

ALZ Across N.Y.: Statewide virtual social activities for those living with dementia and their care partners. Pre-screening and pre-registration are required.

AlzWell Social Club: Online gatherings featuring creative activities for people with dementia and their caregivers.

Memory Cafes: Gatherings where people with early-stage dementia and their caregivers can enjoy musical and other entertainment in a safe, supportive and engaging environment. Prescreening and pre-registration are required.

Something for Alz: Free programs for people with dementia and their family caregivers featuring a variety of interactive activities such as yoga, meditation, art, music, games and poetry as well as musical performances.

Tuesday Socials: Gatherings usually featuring musical entertainment for people with dementia and their caregivers.

Visit with New York Therapy Animals: Interaction with therapy animals for fun and relaxation.

To learn more, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley or call the Alzheimer’s Association at 800.272.3900.

These programs are supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter 2649 South Road, Suite 101 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter Serving Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties in New York.

Poughkeepsie Office 2649 South Road, Suite 101 Poughkeepsie, NY 12601

Purchase Office 2900 Westchester Ave., Suite 306 Purchase, NY 10577

24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 • alz.org/hudsonvalley Trialmatch: alz.org/trialmatch Caregiver Center: alz.org/care Community Resource Finder: alz.org/crf Navigator: alzheimersnavigator.org Message Board: alzconnected.org Walk to End Alzheimer’s: alz.org/walk • The Longest Day: alz.org/tld @ALZHudsonvalley

alzassociationhv

@EndAlz_HV