African-American Outreach continues to broaden its scope by making presentations to many different organizations. One of these was Project Life, which provides services for the home bound elderly in east and central Harlem. Approximately 20 staff attended our presentation. These youthful and enthusiastic staff members posed many questions regarding recognition of the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the differences in behaviors at different stages, and ways to help individuals who are in denial about the progression of the disease in family members. As a result of their repeated home visits to elderly clients, they often recognize declining function that family members may
not be aware of.

The Communication Workers of America (CWA) Retiree Program’s members gathered for a presentation on AD and the services offered by the NYC Chapter at the Union’s Offices in lower Manhattan. Many of the attendees presently deal with dementia among their neighbors, friends and family. Their questions included getting an accurate diagnosis and the Association’s services. This audience was eager in expressing their frustrations in accessing adequate care and in the overwhelming responsibilities of family caregiving. They were, therefore, very receptive to learn about our many caregiver support groups, care consultation services, educational meetings and training, Speakers Bureau, Alzheimer’s Association Safe Return® program, 24-hour Helpline and Web site.

At several of our presentations, questions were raised about AD and its prevalence in other countries as compared to the United States. Interestingly, the question was in relation to the statement that Alzheimer’s is not a part of normal aging. For those who would also pose this question, consider that worldwide people with AD number 18 million, with 5.1 million in the United States. In addition, scientists conducting research are from many countries. In May 2007, Alzheimer’s Disease Research CentennialAwards in the amount of $1 million were given to a collaborative team of scientists from Nova Scotia, the United States and Belgium, investigating ways to disrupt protein buildup that damages the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. The award to scientists from three countries reflects the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease worldwide and the urgency to find ways to control the disease.

— Rosemary Irving, LCSW
Manager, African-American Outreach

African-American Outreach is interested in hearing from you. Please contact me at 646-744-2922 or rirving@alznyc.org if you are a member of or know organizations where we could speak about Alzheimer’s disease and the resources available at the NYC Chapter.

Latino Outreach

As we present the last edition of this year’s Newsletter, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as the Chapter’s new Manager of Latino Outreach. I will be responsible for expanding and supervising the existing Chapter Latino Outreach program, which offers programs and services to Spanish-speaking NewYorkers in all five boroughs. I will also work directly with families and support groups to ensure that caregivers’ needs, and the needs of people living with the disease, are met.

During the past seven years, I served as a Caregiver Services Coordinator, a Social Work Supervisor, a Referral Specialist, and a Mental Health Liaison at a variety of NY organizations, including the Stanley Isaacs Senior Center, the Institute for Puerto Rican/ Hispanic Elderly, and the Mental Health Association of NYC. I have worked directly with people who have dementia, and their relatives and friends who are also affected in many ways.

Experiencing or coping with the symptoms of dementia is not an easy task. It may be that you are concerned about yourself, that you provide direct care for somebody with dementia or you supervise the care of another.

— Licet Valois V., MSW, MPS
Manager, Latino Outreach

Please feel free to contact me at 646-744-2949 or by e-mail at LValois@alznyc.org if you need assistance or additional information.

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