June 02, 2017

Today’s Top Alzheimer’s News

USA2 SPOTLIGHT

A June 1, 2017 USC News article highlighted researchers focused on addressing the Alzheimer's challenge, including Latino Network advisor, Dr. Maria Aranda. According to Dr. Aranda, "Although serving as a caregiver to a family member with dementia can be meaningful, evidence suggests this type of caregiving can lead to early death or, in less extreme cases, be harmful mentally, emotionally and physically."

(ICYMI) A May 4, 2017 UsAgainstAlzheimer’s post by author and UsA2 Activists Network member, Marie Marley, focused on how to decide whether or not to put a loved one with Alzheimer’s in a nursing home. She advises to ask yourself if a facility will provide better care and safety for your loved one, and if caregiving is wrecking your own physical and mental health. If you answered “yes” to either question, she suggests it may be time to start looking for a facility.

MUST READS

A June 1, 2017 Huffington Post blog by Aaron Craven tells about the toll of caring for two parents with dementia while raising children. Despite being a private person, Craven writes, “I feel compelled to speak out on this issue, to share empathy with those in the same struggle, and to raise awareness and encourage people to arm themselves with knowledge.” His overall assessment reads, “When it comes to this disease, there is only one salve that's worth anything. Love.”

A June 1, 2017 Newsweek article spotlighted the realities of dementia in rural America. A recent report by the U.S. Department of Agriculture predicts a significant swelling of the retirement-age population. The migration of young adults leaving farming communities, coupled with the movement of retirees to pastoral settings, is tipping demographics toward people age 65 and older, which means an accompanying rise in dementia. Rural counties do not have the money, professionals or services to address the issue, however, New York state has dedicated $62.5 million over five years to support caregivers.

A June 1, 2017 People article tells the story of Brian Kursonis who has early onset Alzheimer’s disease. He joined PhRMA’s (The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America) national campaign to raise awareness for cutting-edge research. A former counselor, he started his own website to help fellow patients cope with their diagnosis.

MUST WATCH

A June 1, 2017 PBS Newshour segment focused on what it feels like to have early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Chris Hannafan and Pam Montana share their stories. According to Montana, “Everyone always tells me I look good. Well, what does that have to do with anything? I keep saying to people, I’m going to walk around in a bathrobe with a towel on my head, you know, no makeup, just an old hag, and then maybe then they will think I have Alzheimer’s.”

EVENTS AND RESOURCES 

Memory Sunday, the second Sunday in June, is a designated Sunday within congregations serving African Americans that provides education on Alzheimer’s: prevention, treatment, research studies and caregiving. The purpose is to bring national and local attention to the tremendous burden that Alzheimer’s and other dementias are having on the African American community.  Sign up your congregation here.