Alzheimer's Association provides help and hope to family caregivers

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month. The Alzheimer’s Association is marking these events by recognizing and honoring the more than 335,000 caregivers in Washington State who are providing unpaid care to a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

According to the 2017 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, there are approximately 110,000 people living with Alzheimer’s in Washington State. 

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or another dementia is exceptionally demanding. Not only do caregivers provide more extensive care in terms of daily living, but they often do so for many years and even decades. This often takes an emotional, physical, and financial toll on the caregiver.

The Alzheimer’s Association assists family caregivers in a variety of ways, ensuring they are never alone on their journey:

• 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900): Caregivers and people living with memory loss can call anytime day or night for support, information, resources or care consultation.
• Support groups: Emotional support and education for caregivers in a compassionate and confidential group setting.
• The local support group for caregivers meets the second Friday of each month from 10:30am – 12:00noon at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1315 N 160th St, Shoreline 98133. For more information contact: Trisha Kostis at 206-783-4189

• Dementia Family Caregiver Conferences: Free educational events specially designed for family caregivers caring for a loved one with dementia. Residents of King County may attend one or both sessions being offered on Dec. 2, 2017 at Everett Community College and Feb. 3, 2018 at Edmonds Community College. Registration is required.
• The Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregiver Center (http://alz.org/care): An online portal with information and resources related to daily living, care planning, and much more. Caregivers may also receive support and advice from their peers through ALZConnected, an online message board and caregivers forum. 

For more information on Alzheimer’s disease or available resources, visit http://alzwa.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.