Alzheimer's Association offers virtual programs to support caregivers

Press release

BILLINGS — The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the daily routine for everyone, but these can be especially trying times for people who care for someone with cognitive or memory loss.

  To help, the Alzheimer’s Association is offering an expanded array of free tools and resources, including:

• Care consultations — or just moral support — at any time of the day or night through their 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. 

• Virtual programs on a variety of topics about Alzheimer’s and related dementias, effective communication techniques, understanding and responding to dementia-related behaviors and much more.

• Materials mailed upon request on matters like “Activities at Home,” “Caregiver Stress Test,” “Communication,” “Taking Care of Yourself” and dozens more.

• ALZConnected, a free online community where people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family and friends can ask questions, get advice and find support.

For additional information, to RSVP for a program or to order materials, people can call the 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900 or email [email protected]. These programs and many more other resources can also be found at http://alz.org .

RSVP for the following free virtual programs offered by webinar and phone by sending an email to [email protected] or calling the national 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900.

“Know the 10 Signs”

Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause changes in memory, thinking and behavior that interfere with daily life. Learn about 10 common warning signs, what to watch for in yourself and others, why early detection is so important and available resources.

• Thursday, April 16, 2-3 p.m.

• Tuesday, April 28, 2-3 p.m.

• Monday, May 4, 2-3 p.m.

“Effective Communication Strategies”

We will explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s, learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage of the disease.

• Tuesday, April 21, 10-11 a.m.

• Thursday, April 30, 10-11 a.m.

• Tuesday, May 5, 1-2 p.m.

• Friday, May 8, 2-3 p.m.

“Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior”

This program will prepare you to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Friday, April 24, noon to 1 p.m.

• Tuesday, May 12, 2-3 p.m.

The Alzheimer’s Association is the nation’s premier source of information and support for all those living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias, their families and caregivers, including the more than 22,000 Montanas and their 52,000 family caregivers.

The Montana Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers education, early stage programs, support groups and a 24-hour Helpline at no charge to families. In addition, contributions help fund advancements in research to prevent, treat and eventually conquer this disease. The Alzheimer’s Association advocates for people living with Alzheimer’s and all related dementias and their families on related legislative issues and with health and long-term care providers. For information call the Alzheimer’s Association free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900, or visit http:www.alz.org .