Alzheimer's and Dementia Program

Alzheimer's currently affects an estimated five million Americans and the number is expected to reach nearly 15 million by mid-century.
Approximately two thirds of those suffering from Alzheimer's and Dementia are cared for at home by family, usually a spouse. As the disease progresses it carries with it a tremendous burden both physically and psychologically on the family members who are doing the care giving. That is why it is vital that the family access community support systems such as local Alzheimer's organizations that can provide reassurance and support groups.

It is also important that the family caregiver seek outside help if they feel they are becoming ill from the strain of care giving as the disease progresses. The strain can easily become intolerable for a spouse trying to cope all alone at home with an Alzheimer's sufferer and they themselves have a physical or mental breakdown. There should be no shame or guilt in seeking respite care from a professional home care agency. By doing so, families can delay having to place the individual in a long term care facility and instead, keep him or her in the comfort of their own home.

How We're Helping Alzheimer's and Dementia Clients
Interim has joined the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) to develop "A Time to Care," a new training program specifically geared toward providing care for Alzheimer's and dementia suffers in a home setting. The Interim HomeStyle Services DVD-based training program is designed to educate health care paraprofessionals and family members about the disease and train them how to provide safe and effective care in a home setting. The program was originally developed by Richard E. Powers, M.D. Chief of the Bureau of Geriatric Psychiatry at the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation, and a member of AFA's board of trustees, to train facility staff. Dr. Powers modified the original version to take into consideration the added challenges of a home environment. Interim HealthCare professional staff added their expertise in developing the new program.

Many HomeStyle Paraprofessionals across the country have received advance training to provide services to Alzheimer's and Dementia clients and they have also passed the AFA qualification exam to become designated as AFA Qualified Dementia Care Providers. This designation means they have achieved a certain level of education about dementia care that meets the high standards of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America.

Contact your local Interim HomeStyle Services office to discuss how we can best meet your needs.

 

Alzheimer's Foundation of America
The Alzheimer's Foundation of America, based in New York, is a national, nonprofit organization that focuses on care for people with Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and their families. AFA is made up of hundreds of member organizations that provide hands-on programs to meet the educational, emotional, practical and social needs of families. AFA's services include a toll-free hotline (866-232-8484), counseling, educational materials, local resources, and a free caregiver magazine.

From the beginning, AFA's objective has been to unite organizations from coast-to-coast that are dedicated to meeting the educational, social, emotional and practical needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and their caregivers and families. Under AFA's umbrella, these organizations collaborate on education, resources, program design and implementation, fundraising campaigns, and advocacy-all resulting in better care for those affected by the disease.

AFA was also founded on the belief that by raising awareness of the disease and educating healthcare professionals and the public at large, it would:

• Help remove the stigma of the disease
• Lead to early detection and proper treatment
• Result in greater utilization of community resources
• Ultimately improve quality of life

To achieve these goals, AFA has expanded to include several national initiatives and divisions, which are depicted in our network of websites. For more information about the AFA visit their website at www.alzfdn.org