Families Hit Hard by Alzheimer's Disease

Every day 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and one of three of them know someone with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is devastating not just for the person with the diagnosis, but for entire families, as they watch their loved one's memory slow slip away.

On April 28, the Alzheimer's Association will hold its annual Family Forum to give practical support and help to the families of people with Alzheimer's. From 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., they will get to meet other families in their situation and hear from experts who will help them make their lives as care partners more manageable.

One of the featured speakers is Mel Luddington of Healing Moments, who uses drama and role play to teach the correct way to relate to someone suffering memory loss. In sharp contrast to the old "reality orientation" method of telling the person they are wrong about their perception of reality and getting them upset and agitated, Mel teaches how to let go in order to connect effectively. 

Her techniques are a proven strategy for reducing anxiety and increasing the quality of life for the person with Alzheimer's as well as the care partners.

Those interested in attending the forum can call the local office of the Alzheimer's Association at 815-744-0704.