Social & Community

Alzheimer Family Program Web Page Answers Questions, Provides Guidance About Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Providing care to an individual with Alzheimer's disease may sometimes feel like an overwhelming — even daunting — challenge. But, having access to the latest information, referrals, and caregiver support can be an invaluable part of easing your burden as a caregiver and providing your loved one the care and treatment he or she needs to live the best possible quality of life. Since 1980, the Alzheimer Family Program (AFP) — a part of the UAB Center for Aging — has been dedicated to supporting caregivers of those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia and memory loss. Staffed with caring, experienced professionals, AFP serves as a key source of current information, telephone counseling, referrals, and support for those whose loved ones or friends have been affected by Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Now, you can learn about the resources, support, and information available through AFP on a new link to the AgeWell.com website at www.AgeWell.com/afp. Here, you'll find the many ways AFP can bridge the gap between receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or dementia and gaining the information and support needed to manage the disease with hope, dignity, and understanding.

"With more than five million people in the U.S. currently facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease, a significant and growing number of patients and their families are in need of information about the resources and support that are available," explains Virginia Wadley, Ph.D., who leads the Alzheimer Family Program through her role as director of UAB's Dementia Care Research Program. The AFP web page explains how — simply by calling AFP — caregivers and others concerned about someone with Alzheimer's disease or dementia can receive telephone counseling, information, and support that can provide peace of mind and ease the strain caregivers often feel. "Due to the time and energy required in caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, caregivers may feel isolated and uncertain about who to call when a problem, question, or concern arises," says Dr. Wadley. "Our skilled, knowledgeable staff can provide current information about the disease, share caregiver tips and strategies, and lend support to caregivers for day-to-day struggles they may have difficulty sharing with others — all in a phone call."

Also on the AFP web page, you'll find up-to-date information and research about Alzheimer's disease and dementia, read about important issues and coping strategies for caregivers, and learn about caregiver support groups available within Jefferson County and the surrounding area. "Many caregivers say that being part of a support group helps them better cope with the stress and isolation that are often part of the care giving role as well as the sadness they often feel at losing many important aspects of the relationship they once had with their loved one," Dr. Wadley says. "We're committed to helping caregivers who are interested find the support group that best meets their needs."

Yet another key mission of AFP is to provide referrals to caregivers regarding a variety of services including healthcare, legal assistance, and assisted living or nursing home care. As a visitor to the AFP web page, you'll find a wealth of referral information as well as links to other resources available. Also, you'll learn about the many ways AFP can provide vital information and resources to assist with community development and education activities. "The AFP web page is an easily accessible source of current information and resources for anyone interested in learning more about Alzheimer's disease and dementia," adds Dr. Wadley. "We also want caregivers to understand how AFP can support, guide, and inform them during their important and challenging role."

To learn more about Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and how the Alzheimer Family Program can help, log on to www.AgeWell.com/afp today.