Alzheimer's Advocates Take Action in Augusta

The Maine Chapter hosted Maine's Alzhimer's and Dementia Advocacy Day at the State House in Augusta last week.

Bob O’Keefe, an Alzheimer’s advocate who was diagnosed seven years ago, shared a powerful message with legislators, “The reason I advocate is to connect with others living with dementia and to remind myself everyday that I am not alone in this struggle. Being an advocate keeps me focused on what really matters in life and not on the tough times I've been through or the lapses that I experience almost daily."

Laurie Trenholm, Executive Director of the Maine Chapter,  revealed newly released data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS). The BRFSS data proves the dire need for more funding for tax credits and paid leave for dementia caregivers here in Maine. Trenholm explained,  “More than half of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers in Maine have been providing care for at least two years, with nearly a third providing unpaid care for five or more years. Nearly one-fourth of dementia caregivers provde 20 or more hours of care per week. And one out of five are 'sandwhich generation' caregivers, which means they are caring for both someone with dementia and a child or grandchild."

Gareth Howell, Ph,D., Associate Professor at the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, leads a team that is dedicated to Alzheimer’s research. Dr. Howell commented on the importance of funding for research and said, “One of the saddest things about Alzheimer’s research in the past ten to fifteen years is that 99% of clinical trials have failed, and a major reason is that the mouse models haven’t been good enough to recapitulate the human brain.  A major aim of the center is to generate more appropriate mouse models that will recapitulate the disease.” 

In additon to the team of researchers from The Jackson Laboratory, the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, SAGE Maine, Acadia Hospital, and the Maine Hospice Council were represented, demonstrating the dedicated statewide partnerships that are aligning to fight Alzheimer’s disease in 2017. 

Click Here to Watch WABI's Coverage of Maine's Alzheimer's & Dementa Advocacy Day>>

Click here for information on Alzheimer's Advocacy in Maine>>

Care Consultation is Here for You

Care Consultation is a free and confidential service provided by licensed clinical social workers. The service is for families that are navigating the challenges that come with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Care Consultations can be made on the telephone or in person at our office in Scarborough. “This is not at one-time stop,” explains Lee Pennington, LCSW, Manager of Helpline Services at the Maine Chapter. “Care Consultation can be an ongoing program as needs change. We are here for emotional support In addition to the care and support resources that we provide for Alzheimer’s families.”

Care consultation services include:

• Assessment of needs
• Assistance with planning and problem solving
• Supportive listening

For more information or to schedule a care consultation contact Peter Baker, LCSW, at: pbaker@alz.org or 207.772.0115 

Click here for information on our care consultation program>> 

Click here for Caregiver Center >>

We know that living with Alzheimer’s is overwhelming at times. Call the 24/7 Toll Free Helpline: 800.272.3900

The Longest Day: Do What You Love to Fight Alzheimer's On June 21, 2017

Start or join a team, host an event, or register as an individual. Do something you love — or honor a caregiver, someone living with Alzheimer's, or someone you’ve lost by selecting his or her favorite hobby. From playing bridge to hiking or scrapbooking, you’re limited only by your imagination. If you’re already hosting an event or participating as part of a team, now is the time to get organized — send invitations, organize supplies and strategize for the big day. If you’re participating solo, think about the support you will need and ask friends and family to help.

For more infomation on The Longest Day contact Lisa Frazell at lfrazell@alz.org or 207.249.8962

Join a 2017 Walk to End Alzheimer's Planning Committee

Now is a fantastic time to put your leadership skills to use and make an impact. It doesn’t take a lot of time to make a big difference. Join the movement to End Alzheimer’s, get connected with your community, and experience the positive energy that comes from working with a group of dedicated volunteers.  This may be one of the most fulfilling experiences you have this year! The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's® is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide and 7 locations in our region, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to reclaim the future for millions.

For more info on joining a Walk Planning commmittee contact Elizabeth Elliott at: eelliott@alz.org or 207.772.0115

Mind's Eye Maine Photo Project 

For individuals living with dementia and their care partners

Explore the fascinating world of photography through the unique Mind’s Eye Maine Program. Participants are matched with professional and student photographers who offer tips and techniques to enhance picture-taking skills.  This offering of Mind’s Eye Maine will focus on indoor photography of public spaces and personal objects and some outdoor locations. 

The MInd's Eye Maine program begins on Friday, February 3, 2017 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in Scarborough. 

Intergenerational Art Project

We are seeking individuals living with dementia to serve as volunteers in an exciting, innovative program. Heart to Art will feature volunteers and their care partners working together with third grade students from the Horace Mitchell School in Kittery Point on completing fun, dynamic art projects. 

The Intergenerational Art Project program begins Friday, February 3, 2017 from 3 to 4 p.m. in Kittery and runs for four weeks.

Early stage programs are specifically designed for those diagnosed with dementia and focus on building strength, balance and mobility in a friendly, supportive environment. Screening may be required to determine if the program is appropriate for potential participants. Please note that registration is limited to eight couples for each program, so early registration is highly recommended.

Mark Your Calendar to Make A Difference

Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Forum

March 27-29, 2017 
Washington Marriott Wardman Park 
2660 Woodley Rd NW 
Washington, DC 20008 

Alzheimer’s Association Advocacy Forum highlights will include:

• Alzheimer's advocate Maria Shriver will receieve the Lifetime Achievement Award
• Liz Hernandez will receive Young Advocate Award
• Mike McCurry, former White House Press Secretary will be a featured speaker

For more info contact Adam Lacher at: alacher@alz.org or 207.772.0115

Click here for more information on 2017 Advocacy Forum>>

Maine Chapter Resource Links

About the Alzheimer's Association, Maine Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer care, support and research. The Alzheimer's Association, Maine Chapter serves the entire State of Maine from its Scarborough office. There are more than 37,000 families in Maine who are affected by Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, to provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. alz.org/maine

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