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Valentine’s Day is a time for celebrating love and connection, but for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers, it can bring a mix of emotions and challenges. Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, cognition, and behavior, making it difficult for those affected to remember or fully engage in holiday traditions. However, with understanding, patience, and creativity, Valentine’s Day can still be a meaningful and enjoyable occasion for both the individual with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones. Caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring that their loved one with Alzheimer’s feels valued and included on Valentine’s Day. Creating familiar and comforting experiences can help evoke positive emotions and memories. This could involve listening to music from their past, looking through old photo albums, or engaging in activities they enjoy, such as baking cookies or taking a leisurely walk. For couples navigating Alzheimer’s together, Valentine’s Day can serve as a reminder of the enduring strength of their bond. While the progression of the disease may alter the dynamics of their relationship, the love and companionship they share remain unchanged. Simple gestures of affection, such as holding hands, sharing a hug, or exchanging heartfelt words, can foster a sense of connection and intimacy, even in the face of memory loss. ” Adapting Valentine’s Day traditions to accommodate the needs of someone with Alzheimer’s is key to making the day enjoyable for everyone involved. Simplifying activities, minimizing distractions, and maintaining a calm and structured environment can help reduce stress and anxiety for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Caregivers may also consider incorporating sensory experiences, such as aromatherapy or gentle touch, to enhance their loved one’s sensory stimulation and emotional well-being,” said Hadi Finerty, Sr Manager of Education & Community Volunteers, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter In some cases, celebrating Valentine’s Day with Alzheimer’s may involve embracing the present moment and finding joy in the little things. Whether it’s sharing a heartfelt conversation, watching a favorite movie together, or simply enjoying a quiet moment of companionship, the true essence of Valentine’s Day lies in the love and connection shared between two people. It’s important for caregivers to practice self-care and seek support from friends, family, or support groups, especially during holidays like Valentine’s Day. Taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, and acknowledging their own emotions can help caregivers navigate the challenges of caregiving with compassion and resilience. Ultimately, while Alzheimer’s may present unique challenges on Valentine’s Day, it also provides an opportunity to celebrate love in its purest form – a love that transcends memories and endures through the highs and lows of life’s journey. By embracing each moment with patience, understanding, and unconditional love, Valentine’s Day can be a cherished occasion for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers alike. The Alzheimer’s Association is available with information and support for families as they navigate the disease and related research. For more information, visit alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

Living with Alzheimer’s presents unique challenges, and managing finances is often among the most daunting. However, with careful planning and support, it’s possible to navigate this aspect of the journey effectively. Here are some strategies to help individuals and families manage finances while impacted by Alzheimer’s: 1) Early Planning: Plan and organize finances as early as possible after diagnosis. Consider creating a financial plan with the help of a trusted financial advisor or attorney. 2 ) Power of Attorney: Designate someone to act as Power of Attorney for financial matters. This individual can manage finances, pay bills, and make financial decisions on behalf of the person with Alzheimer’s. 3 ) Automatic Bill Payments: Set up automatic bill payments for recurring expenses to ensure they are paid on time. 4 ) Simplify Finances: Consolidate accounts and streamline financial affairs to make management easier. Close unnecessary accounts and cancel unused subscriptions or services. 5 ) Monitor Accounts Regularly: Keep track of bank accounts, credit card statements, and investments regularly. Look out for any unusual or unauthorized transactions. 6 ) Protect Against Scams: Educate yourself and your loved ones about common financial scams targeting seniors and individuals with dementia. Be cautious of sharing personal or financial information over the phone or online. 7 ) Long-Term Care Planning: Explore options for long-term care insurance or Medicaid planning. Consider consulting with a financial planner specializing in elder care to discuss options for funding long-term care needs. 8 ) Legal Documents: Ensure that legal documents such as wills, trusts, and advance directives are in place and up to date. Consult with an attorney specializing in elder law to address any legal concerns or questions. 9 ) Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from family members, friends, or support groups. Financial advisors and organizations specializing in Alzheimer’s and dementia care can also provide guidance and support. 10 ) Review Regularly: Regularly review and update financial plans and documents as needed, especially as the disease progresses. Stay informed about changes in financial and healthcare laws that may affect planning and benefits. Managing finances while dealing with Alzheimer’s requires patience, diligence, and support. By implementing these strategies and seeking assistance when needed, individuals and families can navigate the financial aspects of Alzheimer’s with greater confidence and peace of mind.

As long as I can remember, my life has been intertwined with stories. From listening to them, watching them unfold, to finally becoming a storyteller myself, my journey has been a tapestry of experiences. I began my career as a freelance reporter for a suburban Chicago newspaper in 1990, post-college, eventually finding my way to the esteemed City News Bureau of Chicago and later into television reporting and anchoring roles across various cities. My passion for storytelling and connecting with people led me through the highs and lows of life, but the true test came when my mom succumbed to complications from breast cancer. In the face of loss, my father, Ted, became an integral part of my life. We invited him to live with us, and as time unfolded, it became clear that he needed more support due to a diagnosis of dementia. His journey with the disease was marked by withdrawn behavior, persistent fatigue, and alarming mini-strokes that demanded immediate medical attention. Amidst the challenges, I found solace and strength in the Alzheimer’s Association. This community of compassionate individuals united by a common goal of providing the best care for their loved ones became a beacon of support. I readily accepted the opportunity to be an emcee at the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s celebration, moved by the impact the disease had on patients and their families. The experience was not only eye-opening but also deeply inspiring. Fast forward to today, and my personal connection with Alzheimer’s has taken on a new dimension. My wife Leslie’s mother, Sarah, at 84 (though she enjoys keeping her age a delightful secret), is navigating through stage four dementia. Acute short-term memory loss and familiar traits associated with Alzheimer’s mark her journey. Despite the challenges, her loving spark remains intact, even if the ability to form new memories has slipped away. My mission now is clear – to shower Sarah with the love and care she has always bestowed upon her family. It’s a journey filled with both heartache and moments of profound connection. Through it all, the Alzheimer’s Association continues to be a pillar of support, backed by the dedication of numerous organizations and companies committed to funding their mission. As I traverse this path, I am grateful for the resources and research focused on finding a cure. Each step, each story shared, becomes a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of love in the face of adversity. Together, we press on, weaving a narrative of hope and determination in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Join Ray Cortopassi as he emcee the 2024 Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon, on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. at the FOUR SEASONS HOTEL CHICAGO, located at 120 E Delaware Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Click here for details

Gray Matters Games satisfies two passions for owner Joe Barron: inventing games that support brain health, and fighting to end Alzheimer’s disease. Joe saw the toll that Alzheimer’s and dementia took in his own family. Both of his grandmothers faced the disease; one grandmother lived with her diagnosis for 12 years. Joe’s family had to make difficult decisions as his grandmothers progressed through the disease. His mom, being one of five children, found it challenging to find agreement with siblings on matters of their mother’s independence, such as her ability to drive. Joe Barron at Walk to End Alzheimer’s 2017. Despite the hardships that come while watching a loved one face Alzheimer’s, Joe and his family soaked up the moments they had together singing, dancing, and playing games. At one stage, Joe’s grandmother didn’t remember anyone’s name—but she remembered all the words to songs from her childhood. So, Joe and his family learned the words to a number of songs from the 1940s and 1950s and sang along with her. Joe Barron at Junior Board’s annual Paint the Night Purple event in 2018 JJoe’s game company Gray Matters Games “promotes community, encourages fun and gives back to Alzheimer’s research.” Games can be a great activity to do with loved ones facing Alzheimer’s or dementia. Playing games helps build new memories and cherish the little moments together. Studies show that keeping your mind active and engaged may delay cognitive decline. Gray Matters Games creates games the whole family can enjoy, along with more challenging strategy games for serious gamers. For those who haven’t faced Alzhiemer’s or dementia firsthand, Joe says not to be afraid of reaching out and asking for help. Joe first got involved with the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter through the Junior Board. He learned about the many free, timely resources available while serving on the board. Since the disease affects over 6 million Americans, Joe says anyone you stop on the street will know someone who has been impacted by the disease. Thankfully, more and more families and businesses are joining the fight for a cure by raising awareness and funds. Fair Game in Downers Grove, IL, The Longest Day is all about doing what you love. Joe turned his passion for gaming into a fundraiser to end Alzheimer’s disease in honor of his grandmothers, and for families everywhere. He’s helping us get closer to a cure, one move at a time. Learn how to turn your favorite hobby into a fundraiser or get your business involved with The Longest Day at alz.org/tld. Gray Matters Games Fair Game

Mark and his dad enjoying a vacation at Lake Tahoe Why I Walk: Shared by Mark Baranek Mark Baranek is Vice President of Projects & Contracts and Interim Senior Vice President of Technical Services at ComEd. In 2023, Mark is also serving as the executive sponsor for the ComEd Cause of the Year program, benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association. ComEd’s Cause of the Year is an annual program where ComEd employees vote for a cause to focus their giving efforts on for the year. In 2023, ComEd employees selected the Alzheimer’s Association—pledging to contribute a $50,000 corporate conation and more than $50,000 in company-wide fundraising for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. As of October 2023, ComEd has raised more than $108,000 for the cause. On a brisk Saturday morning in October, my family and I bundled up and headed to Chicago. When we arrived to the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s event, we were greeted with an excited crowed decked out in bright colors to support the cause. I know that the walks are a great way to raise money and awareness around Alzheimer’s and dementia, but they are also an incredible opportunity to build community and collaborate with others who share a similar goal of finding ways to mitigate and prevent Alzheimer’s in the future. The crowd in Chicago was certainly proof of that. Mark holding a Purple flower during Walk to End ALZ 2023 Flower Ceremony in Chicago. At the walk, I was able to share how Alzheimer’s has impacted my family. My father struggled with Alzheimer’s in the last few years of his life, and it was a very difficult time for everyone involved. It’s important to remember that Alzheimer’s effects people in their entirety—their mind, their personality and their physical body. Not only was it sad to see my father change and struggle during that period, it was also difficult to see the impact it had on my mother who was his primary caregiver. As I walked in support of a cure with my family, friends, coworkers and fellow Chicagoans, I thought of my father—but I also thought of the challenges that Alzheimer’s can present to the families navigating this difficult disease. Something people don’t often consider, is that Alzheimer’s is not a disease that only impacts the elderly. There are many individuals living with Alzheimer’s who have young families, which can make the journey much more difficult for those involved. The Chicago walk was also proof that Alzheimer’s impacts more than just the individual. The loss associated with Alzheimer’s has a much wider reach—extending to the immediate family, friends and greater community. It is quite painful to watch someone no longer have the ability to share their stories and experiences with the people most important to them. I am grateful that the Alzheimer’s Association lives up to it’s mission of helping end Alzheimer’s. I look forward to the day when these walks are filled with white flowers.

Shared by David Myers: When someone receives the diagnosis of Dementia or Alzheimer’s, they refer to it as their journey. Our Alzheimer’s journey started in July 2012 when my wife Cheryl was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 47. Cheryl was having difficulty finding locations while driving, and when simple tasks at work became too hard for her, we knew something serious was going on. After two years of looking for an answer, we finally received the diagnosis that changed our lives. Cheryl and I enjoyed taking vacations, and one of our favorite spots was the Smokey Mountains. “The journey is the Destination” was a quote that was on one of Cheryl’s t-shirts she got when we were in the Smokies one year, and the saying stuck way before our ALZ journey and is still a saying we use today. She loved walking the many trails in the Smokies, and when she found a guidebook called Scavenger Hikes of the Smokies, her goal was to hit all 20 hikes. One of those hikes took us on an 8-mile adventure, where we found a locomotive that had rolled off the mountain and was left there. The guidebook gave us the opportunity to see things we would have missed on our trips to Gatlinburg, Tn. But the guidebooks only gave us the information the author had knowledge of. We realized even with a guidebook, there were things that were not covered that could happen. What we realized was when on a journey, you just need to go with the flow and find the joy. This Alz Journey is not unlike those adventures we enjoyed back in the Smokies. In order to make sure our loved one is safe and happy on THIS journey; you need to have the right equipment. That equipment, believe it or not, is similar to the equipment you use when you are hiking. Wearing a hat: You will wear many hats during this journey. Chef Housekeeper Personal secretary Nurse Attorney Chauffeur Friend And yes, even guide Using the Guide/GPS: The Guide is responsible to make sure you know where you are going, but sometimes, the GPS can help show where you have been as this can be just as important at times. The GPS can document the progression of the journey, so we know exactly where we are and can provide the documentation needed to help the doctors provide the best care for our loved one. The guide can provide topics to read about so you are prepared for “What’s Next.” The Backpack can be both good and bad: Every good guide has a backpack to keep all of the items needed for the journey. Everything goes into the backpack, just remember to leave out the burdens, fear, worry, anxiety, and all things unknown and out of your control that you might find yourself carrying as well. You never really know how long this journey will take you. Your concerns need to be shared with others to help you on your journey. The walking stick is my favorite item: The walking stick comes in many shapes and sizes. It is used to move objects out of the way. It is used to help us keep our balance. And it is used to lean on when we are tired. The reason the walking stick is my favorite is not just because it looks cool, but because it serves a great purpose. In 2019, my wife Cheryl completed her Alzheimer’s journey, and that is when I realized that this journey I had been on didn’t have to stop. I may have felt like stopping, however, there is so much that I had learned over her 7-year journey that it just didn’t seem right to quit when I was still on my own journey. Volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association is my therapy. It gives me the opportunity to talk about the love of my life, Cheryl. It also gives me the opportunity to share my story and the tools to navigate to the end and allows me to be the walking stick for others who are on this journey. Volunteering has been one of the most important things I think I can do for my community.

Caregiver, Helene Shapiro, shares her story for caring for her husband with Alzheimer’s. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is marked by both highs and lows, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase love, resilience, and the strength of family bonds. As we navigate this path, we cherish the moments that remain, practice patience, and honor the essence of the person they once were. In the end, what matters most is the love and care we provide. While Alzheimer’s may steal memories, it cannot erase the enduring legacy of love. What is the best thing about being a caregiver ? Not much of being a caregiver is easy or fun. This disease takes so much away from Steve and I. But the moments when he tries to hug me and tells me I am beautiful are pretty special. One day, I came in and gave him a kiss hello. I soon realized he didn’t know who I was, and I asked him if he kissed anyone, and he said – no – only the cute one. What are some things you wished you had known before beginning your caregiver journey? Everything! Early onset has many unique challenges. The medical, psychological, legal, financial and emotional issues can be overwhelming. And there isn’t a lot out there to help. What are the things you do best as a caregiver? I am really resourceful. I’m willing to make lots of calls and absorb all the information that people are willing to share. I’m a pretty organized, I figure out a problem and I attack it from all sides to find the best solution. And at this point, I’m not afraid or ashamed to ask for a favor or help. We are all going to be in a difficult position and I have found that people really want to help. What are the biggest challenges of being a caregiver? The change in your loved one – is devastating. Steve is the funniest, sweetest kindest man I know. The disease took so much of that away. I only get flickers of him now. On a more basic level, you don’t know what you don’t know or what you will need until it smacks you in the face, and then you have to react quickly. How do you manage the stress that comes with being a caregiver? McDonalds French fries on the way home from a bad visit . Even after more than seven years, I’m not sure what is my best way to handle the stress. I’m not ashamed to say that a little anti-depressants and a therapist help me find my center. I have the absolute best friends and family, who are there at any time to talk. And I have Stanley to hug and walk, the best golden retriever you could ever want. What valuable lessons have you learned as a caregiver that you would share with other caregivers? #1- go easy on yourself. Things will go wrong, try not to beat yourself up. There is no way you can ever anticipate what is going to happen to you and your family. I am my hardest judge and my friends remind me that I am doing my best and that has to be enough. #2- Find your people and let them help you. You can’t do this alone; it is just too much. People want to help, they feel as helpless to this disease as you do, so helping makes them feel better. #3- you can’t figure this disease out and how it will affect your loved one. Stop trying to anticipate what is next, it rarely works, you have to “go with the flow”. I am a serious planner, timelines, lists etc. It just doesn’t work and accepting that was huge for me. 💙 #EndAlzheimers #FamilyCaregiving

Shared by Howard Schnitzer: Being a caregiver for my wife Chris in the face of Alzheimer’s has been an arduous journey, both emotionally and physically. Alzheimer’s is a relentless disease that tests the limits of one’s strength and resilience, but it’s the emotional toll that often feels the heaviest. One of the most emotionally challenging aspects of this journey has been witnessing Chris’s expressions of longing for heaven. It’s heart-wrenching to hear her yearn for an escape from the torment of Alzheimer’s. The disease has transformed her from a top executive assistant, a woman of remarkable capabilities, into someone who struggles with basic functions. The transition has not only been difficult for Chris but for me as well. In the midst of these heart-wrenching moments, I’ve made a commitment to make Chris’s good days the best they can be. I’ve had to learn to be more patient and understanding, as this disease has stripped away her abilities and left her vulnerable. It’s not easy, but it’s a testament to the strength and resilience that caregivers need to muster every day. Through my experiences, I’ve learned valuable lessons that I hope can inspire and guide others in similar situations. The importance of seeking help and support cannot be emphasized enough. Caregivers should not bear this burden alone. Friends and community resources can provide the emotional strength needed to care for a loved one and lighten the load. Self-care is another crucial aspect that should not be overlooked. It may seem challenging when your focus is primarily on your loved one, but taking care of yourself is essential to being a better caregiver and maintaining your own well-being. Preparing legal and practical matters in advance has also been invaluable. Legal documents and frameworks ensure that Chris’s wishes are honored, and they help navigate the complexities that can arise in Alzheimer’s caregiving. Learning to ask for help and being part of a supportive community of friends has been vital to my journey. Leaning on your support network during difficult times is essential. My involvement in a men’s support group for over twenty-five years exemplifies how communities can provide crucial support during trying times. Through this journey, I’ve experienced significant personal growth and adaptation. My love and dedication to Chris have grown, and I’ve become more loving and supportive. We hold hands, express our love every day, and her care is my top priority. Caregiving is an immensely challenging and selfless role, but the bond it creates can be incredibly heartwarming. It’s essential to remember that the Alzheimer’s journey is unique for each person, and while the challenges are significant, there can still be moments of connection and love. My dedication and love for Chris are a testament to the commitment caregivers make to provide the best possible care and support during these difficult times. In the end, I find it most important to live by the caregiver’s “10 Commandments” Never ARGUE, Instead AGREE. Never REASON, Instead DIVERT. Never SHAME, Instead DISTRACT. Never LECTURE, Instead REASSURE. Never Say REMEMBER, Instead Say REMINISCE. Never Say I TOLD YOU, Instead REPEAT. Never Say YOU CAN’T, Instead Say DO WHAT YOU CAN. Never COMMAND Or DEMAND, Instead ASK Or MODEL. Never CONDESCEND, Instead ENCOURAGE And PRAISE. Never FORCE, Instead REINFORCE. In conclusion, being a caregiver to a loved one with Alzheimer’s is a journey filled with emotional and physical challenges. It’s a path that requires strength, resilience, and unwavering love. Seeking help and support, taking care of yourself, and preparing for legal and practical matters are all essential aspects of this journey. Through personal growth and adaptation, caregivers can find moments of connection and love even in the face of this devastating disease.

My name is Shelbi and my involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a deeply personal and heartfelt journey. It began with the diagnosis and passing of my grandfather in 2007, which was a significant event that drew my attention to Alzheimer’s disease. However, my commitment deepened when my mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2018. It prompted me to move in with mom and stepdad to provide care and support during a challenging time. The Alzheimer’s Association played a crucial role in my journey, offering a lifeline for information, support, and connection. This led me to join the Alzheimer’s Walk committee, and found a kindred spirit in the committee head, Alison McEwen, who shared a similar experience with her father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis. The impact of Alzheimer’s on my life has been profound. My mother, who was a role model, a successful businesswoman, and my closest friend, was diagnosed at a young age of 57, making it particularly difficult. Being her caregiver for nearly four years presented both challenges and meaningful moments, and it culminated in the difficult decision to place her in a memory care facility in 2022. Despite the hardships, I find solace in the moments when my mom recognizes and lights up upon seeing her family. I believe that raising funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s disease is critical. Many people underestimate the disease, viewing it as something that only affects the elderly or as an inevitable part of aging. I am determined to challenge these misconceptions because Alzheimer’s is a heartbreaking disease that affects both the individual and their family. I’ve actively worked to raise funds and advocate for the cause through events like my bowling fundraiser, where I raised $2,000, and additional efforts in August, bringing my total to $3,519.97. I emphasize that Alzheimer’s takes a devastating toll, killing more people than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined, and affecting women more than men. My goal is to raise awareness and funds to find a cure for this disease and create more survivors, like my mother, who, despite her challenges, is doing relatively well at the age of 62. I highlight her love for visitors, treats, and being with her family and friends. My story is a compelling testament to the impact of Alzheimer’s on families and the importance of continued support, advocacy, and research to combat this devastating disease.

Alzheimer’s disease has affected me in the most life-altering way possible. Alzheimers took away my best friend and life partner of over 35 years: my wife, Susan. I had to watch as it took simple physical coordination away from a once world-class marathon runner. It took my future retirement plans and threw them out the window. The disease took my children’s mother and best friend; it took away a friend to many people; and it took a wonderful human from this earth. The saddest thing to deal with was watching the disease progress without being able to do anything about it. It felt like we lost her twice. Susan first became a different person than we all knew, and then physically passed. The single and only positive way Alzheimers has affected my life is that I now have a much greater appreciation of life, my family and my friends. I have always said “I love you” to people, but I find myself saying it more often. Don’t wait. Say it to those that mean so much to you. We found tremendous support from Susan Frick and the Without Warning support group. Those get-togethers were so good for both my wife and myself. As a caregiver it was comforting to know I wasn’t alone with my questions, confusion, exhaustion and concern about the care we were all trying to give our loved ones. The bonding that took place between caregivers was swift, strong and comforting. We found others in similar situations that could offer advice and would understand our pain, our fears, and our frustration. An example of the bonds we created took place around Christmas. I was in my kitchen in Glen Ellyn having some melancholy moments about dealing with the holiday and trying to make sure my family stayed upbeat as it would mark one year since my wife’s passing. I got a buzz that someone was at the door, so I went down to the entry and there was a gentleman, Tom, from the Without Warning support group. He was there with a box of cookies and a hug just to let me know someone was thinking about me. I didn’t get a chance to tell him, but that one simple act carried me through the holiday with a smile in my heart. Don’t try to deal with Alzheimers alone. Get in a support group , go to therapy and lean on family and friends. I started a fundraiser with The Longest Day in honor of Susan. I organized a golf outing–which seemed like a logical thing for me as I was retired from the golf business. My original goal was to have about 100 players and try to raise about $10,000. As things got into motion I quickly realized I had many more friends and supporters in my life! First, I got a big boost from the golf club where I work part-time in the summer, Boulder Ridge Country Club. Thanks to previous owners, the Plote Family, and the current owners, The Heritage Golf Group, they afforded me a generous discount on the complete package of golf, lunch and dinner. The fantastic staff at Boulder Ridge gave me so much help and support. I cannot imagine the event running as smoothly as it did without them at my side. Many of my fellow golf professionals donated gift certificates for rounds of golf that we auctioned off. Many friends from our past and present showed up to participate, sponsor, donate or help with registration and setup at the event. My fellow Rotarians from Buffalo Grove played and donated to the fundraiser. One super generous Rotarians case donated all the signs, banners and bag tags for the day’s events. Former employees of mine came from all over. Some who had worked for me during their high school and college days flew in for the event, some who worked with me up until my retirement showed support. The members of Boulder Ridge Country Club were and continue to be such great friends–not just during the event, but in the years preceding the event when they offered their friendship, support and love. Needles to say I had my family and three of my best friends urging me on and holding me up when I would wobble a bit. When it was all said and done my event had 186 golfers and nearly 200 for dinner. The final amount raised was over $32,000 . One of my all time favorite movies is Shawshank Redemption. One of my favorites lines is, “You got to get busy living or get busy dying.” In dealing with the loss of Susan, the idea of “get busy dying” would have been to sit and feel sorry for myself, my family and Susan–to sit in my misery without doing anything. That did not seem like an option for me nor one that would make Susan or my sons proud of. I chose to “get busy living” by helping raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and raising funds for Alzheimer’s research so that hopefully the next generation doesn’t have to deal with this horrible disease. As the population continues to live longer, Alzheimer’s unchecked will start affecting more and more of us. If we put people on the moon and bring them back, we can do this: we can end Alzheimer’s in our lifetime. More awareness means more funds raised, and more funds raised means hope for the future. The thing I would like people to understand about Alzheimer’s disease is that it can happen to anyone. My wife Susan had no family history of Alzheimer’s. She exercised every day, she ate healthy, stayed mentally active and could have been the poster child for someone least likely to be afflicted, especially at the age of 54. It can happen to anyone and that is why it is so important to raise awareness. If it does happen to someone in your care, please do not face it alone. Join a support group, reach out to family and friends and know that you are not all by yourself. Sometimes people are a little hesitant to reach out to you first because they don’t know what to say or do. If you reach out to people first you will be amazed how much just having someone to talk to can help. I was always fortunate to have friends I could count on, but the depth and sincerity of those friendships amazed me and certainly carried me though those most difficult days.

Restituto Miranda Sr. occasionally reminisced about driving a taxicab, working in an office supplies store and riding his motorcycle. But there was one problem: To the best of his family’s knowledge, Miranda — who had worked as a meat cutter with the American Meat Packing Corp. in Chicago — never had done any of these things, says his son Resti Miranda Jr. Seeing how happy he seemed telling the stories, family members didn’t correct the elder Miranda, diagnosed in 2014 with vascular dementia after experiencing a second stroke. Dementia can affect a person’s brain in such a way that individuals may remember only fragments of something that occurred years earlier, or they may make up stories. The elder Miranda passed away in January 2020 at the age of 82. It was hard, Miranda Jr. says, to see his once-healthy, strong father fight through complications from two strokes and vascular dementia. All dementias involve changes in the brain, but symptoms vary. Alzheimer’s disease comprises 60% to 80% of dementia cases. Here are some other types: Vascular dementia Vascular dementia, which can occur after stroke or heart disease, is one of several types of dementia, says Terrianne Reynolds, director of healthcare initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, Illinois Chapter . This type of dementia can result from brain damage due to impaired blood flow and other conditions that damage blood vessels and reduce circulation, such as atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke. Vascular dementia is marked by a decline in thinking skills caused by conditions that block or reduce blood flow to the brain, depriving brain cells of vital oxygen and nutrients. “These changes can sometimes occur suddenly following strokes that block major brain blood vessels,” Reynolds says. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion, language problems, difficulty paying attention and visual orientation problems. These symptoms may develop gradually or become apparent after a stroke or major surgery such as heart bypass. While tests can determine that you have dementia, there’s not a specific test that confirms vascular dementia, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your symptoms, medical history, and history of stroke or cardiovascular issues can point to vascular dementia. Lewy body dementia Lewy body dementia is an umbrella term for two related clinical diagnoses: dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. The most common symptoms are changes in cognition, movement, sleep and behavior. Lewy body dementia typically begins at age 50 or older, although sometimes younger people develop it. In the early stages of Lewy body dementia, symptoms can be mild, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). But as the disease advances, people with Lewy body dementia need more help — and eventually often depend entirely on others — because of the decline in their thinking and movement abilities. Some Lewy body dementia symptoms may respond to treatment for a period of time, but there’s not yet a cure. However, the NIA reports that research is improving scientists’ understanding of this condition. That knowledge may one day lead to earlier diagnoses, improved care and new treatments. Frontotemporal dementia Frontotemporal dementia is a group of disorders caused by progressive cell degeneration in the brain’s frontal lobes (the areas behind the forehead) or its temporal lobes (the regions behind the ears). The most common dementia for those under 60, frontotemporal dementia is misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, depression or a mental health disorder, according to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration. It takes an average of 3.6 years to receive an accurate diagnosis, the association says. Mixed dementia When symptoms of more than one type of dementia occur simultaneously, it’s called mixed dementia. The likelihood of having mixed dementia increases with age and is highest in people age 85 and older.

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is hosting a research symposium. This event is dedicated to honoring National Family Caregivers Month, recognizing the vital contributions of caregivers, increasing awareness about their role, and providing valuable information and resources. Symposium Highlights: Date and Time: Friday, November 3, 2023, starting at 09:30 AM (CDT). Location: Feinberg Pavilion Conference Center, Northwestern University, 251 E Huron, 3rd Floor, Chicago, IL 60611. Purpose of the Symposium: “By hosting this annual symposium, we have the opportunity to bring together over 300 caregivers, patients, families and healthcare professionals to learn about the latest in Alzheimer’s and dementia research and the Association’s role in driving and leading global research initiatives. We are also able to provide the attendees with information, tools, and resources,” said Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs, Alzheimer’s Association. Key Speaker: Heather Snyder, Ph.D., Vice President, Medical & Scientific Relations at the Alzheimer’s Association, will lead a discussion on an overview of the new of era treatment which includes activities happening at the Association to advance research. The keynote discussion will also address access to the services, programs and awareness to diagnose and treat dementia, as well as support provided. Professional Track Drug Development : An overview of the drug development process to include discussion on clinical trials, the phases of trials, how to participate, and why older and diverse participants are essential in clinical research. Detection: An overview of the current Alzheimer’s and memory concerns landscape. Discussion will include the importance of early detection in the new era of treatment as it relates to medical benefits, emotional and social benefits, more time to plan for the future and cost savings. Family Track Cultural Considerations in Dementia : Discussion on the recognition of dementia across cultures including cultural specificity of screening tools, identification of differences in risk factors, incidence, onset and prevalence across cultures and culturally related issues in decision making about management. Behaviors : Identify common triggers for behaviors associated with dementia. Explaining the process for assessing and identifying challenging behaviors and strategies to address common dementia – related behaviors. New Anti-Amyloid Therapies: What do you need to know? Panel Discussion (all attendees) Discussion on current therapies that are now available and understanding the target audience for the therapies. Discussion on the process of administering the drug and the patient experience in the new journey of new treatments. The discussion will feature two early stage patients who are on Leqembi and Adulhelm. Who Should Attend: The symposium offers tracks tailored for various groups, including: Individuals with early dementia or Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Family members, friends, or non-professional family care partners of individuals with dementia. Professional caregivers, direct care staff, and administrators (Please note: No continuing education credits offered in this category). Health and allied health professionals eligible for Continuing Education Units (CEU) or Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits. Continuing Education: Professional II attendees (health and allied health professionals) are eligible to earn 3.0 CEU or CME credits. Eligible professionals for continuing education credit include counselors, dietitians/nutrition counselors, marriage and family counselors, nurses, nursing home administrators, occupational therapists, physical therapists, physicians, psychologists, respiratory therapists, social workers, and others (inquire at omatongo@alz.org ). This symposium promises to be an informative and impactful event for those involved in Alzheimer’s and dementia care and research. It offers an excellent opportunity to learn, connect, and contribute to the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. To register please click here