Contributed by Janice Downing
Is someone you love affected by Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia? Almost everyone knows of someone who has been impacted by dementia - a family member, a friend or maybe someone in the community.
In fact, Alaska has the fastest senior growth rate in the United States. The Administration on Aging identified a 65.5 percent increase in Alaska’s population of people over 65 and older from 2006 to 2016. This trend is expected to continue through 2025. While our lifespan has increased with people actively into their eighties and beyond, the downside is that the risk of diseases developing associated with aging are also increasing. One of these is Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, - Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) are estimated to affect 12,500 Alaskan’s over the age of 65 in 2020. It is estimated that by 2030 the number of seniors with ADRD in the state will almost double affecting, 23,900 Alaskan seniors.
When a loved one develops Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, it affects everyone. It is hard for the person living with dementia, as well as family and friends. Providing care as cognitive functions decline can be challenging, demanding and draining. Yet it can also be a positive experience with many rewards and a feeling of accomplishment. Being knowledgeable about Alzheimer’s and dementia, learning new ways of communicating, finding resources, and taking care of yourself are all important ways this journey can be improved for you and your loved ones.
During the month of November our non-profit organization, Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska reaches out across the state to raise awareness about memory changes, and the challenges and effects of dementia through classes and events. This year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are offering many of these events in a virtual format so everyone can participate in these activities from their home.
Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska provides a variety of free programs and services to make a difference in the lives of people living with dementia and their loved ones.
Mind Matters: An education and support group for people with early to moderate memory loss. We meet weekly to connect and engage in a variety of activities to promote well-being.
Brain Works: An education program to support people in the moderate to later stages with engaging activities and friendship to combat social isolation.
Art Links, Memory Café and Brain Games: Offers music and art for self-expression, engagement and social interaction.
Consultations: Free consultations are available to individuals and families to offer guidance in dementia care and to plan for the future.
Caregiving classes: Offered throughout the year on many topics. A family caregiver education program called “Savvy Caregiver” covers the best practices in providing dementia care.
Caregiving Support Groups: An opportunity for family and friends to meet regularly for support. Several support groups are available in the Mat-Su Valley.
Our hope is that through helpful information, resources and support to help guide Alaskans living with dementia and care partners we can make the journey a little easier and less stressful for you.
Please call our Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska office located in Wasilla at the Mat-Su Health Foundation for more information about our many programs and services at 907-864-3413. You may also email Janice Downing at: jdowning@alzalaska.org or Kim Jung at: kjung@alzalaska.org