During these uncertain times, many people are experiencing their stress levels rise as normal routines have been disrupted by COVID-19 and local stay-at-home orders. It is easy to feel alone and more isolated than ever. The Alzheimer’s Association Washington State Chapter has care consultants who are working every day to help individuals and families facing dementia. Our care consultants are on the frontline, lending a listening ear, offering guidance and support, and connecting people to local resources to help during these challenging times.
“It can be difficult to ask for help, especially with something as intimate as caregiving for a loved one. You might feel protective, fearful, guilty, ashamed — it’s okay to have these feelings and it’s important to notice them. Have compassion for yourself. Whatever thoughts or feelings come up, know that you will be able to work through them and there are resources to help you with this and offer alternative perspectives,” said Erica Farrell, Clinical Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association Washington State Chapter.
Erica advises that dementia caregivers take a moment to reflect and make sure that their own needs are met. “Because we know that caregiving takes a toll on our health, it’s so important that you take time to do things for yourself, fill your own cup, and remember that you are not alone — there are many others walking a similar path who will be glad to walk with you,” she said.
Below are profiles of the members of our clinical team. We are so proud of the work they do! Please join us in thanking them for all they do each day to support people impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.
Alice Allen-Redfern
When did you join the Alzheimer’s Association?
My name is Alice Allen-Redfern and I joined the Alzheimer’s Association in February of 2017.
Where are you from?
I am from East Sussex, UK.
What are some things that bring you joy?
Enjoying all that the Pacific Northwest has to offer- either by canoe or on foot! I love to read as much as I can and playing my guitar provides daily joy for me.
What inspired you to go into this line of work?
When I moved to Seattle I wanted to continue my invested work with Family Caregivers. The effects of Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias are devastating but I am constantly humbled by the people I meet who strive to live well with this disease and the family members who tenaciously care for them. It is these people that inspired me to become a Care Consultant and continue being a small part of the big fight against this disease.
What is one piece of advice you have for caregivers?
Plan for your own care! Visit your doctor for regular check-ups and pay attention to the signs and symptoms of stress. It’s easy to abandon the people and activities you love when you’re mired in caregiving, but caregivers risk their own health and wellbeing by doing so.
Also, connect with others who understand what you are going through. There are support groups, social events and online forums that can be used to connect and our staff is always just a phone call away if a listening ear is needed!
Emily Brulotte
When did you join the Alzheimer’s Association?
My name is Emily Brulotte. I joined the Alzheimer’s Association in 2017.
Where are you from?
I am proudly from Prosser, Washington.
What are some things that bring you joy?
Things that bring me joy…being around people (friends, family, strangers, you name it) I like to talk and connect with others. Camping in the summer! Music. Movies. Cooking and keeping up the garden. Oh, and yes, WSU, go Cougs!
What inspired you to go into this line of work?
I wrote a letter to myself in 5th grade as an assignment of what I wanted to do when I grew up. I wrote that I wanted to work with others and try to provide help where needed. That statement still stands.
What is one piece of advice you have for caregivers?
Take care of yourself and reach out to others. Whether it is family, friends, a support group, online groups, our Helpline (1.800.272.3900.) Social support in any capacity is so important.
Estela Ochoa
When did you join the Alzheimer’s Association?
My name is Estela Ochoa, Ijoined the Alzheimer’s Association on July 1, 2009.
Where are you from?
I am from Mexico City. I have been living in Seattle for 28 years.
What are some things that bring you joy?
I enjoy hiking, biking and dancing.
What inspired you to go into this line of work?
My personal experience as an immigrant is helpful when working with families in the Latino community. I often found that in the Latino community Alzheimer’s means that “you are crazy” or it is ignored by pretending it doesn’t exist. I wanted an opportunity to educate the Latino community about Alzheimer’s disease because of the stigma.
What is one piece of advice you have for caregivers?
Make sure you are getting a diagnosis from a medical professional. Many caregivers think that memory loss is just a normal part of aging. Dementia is not.
Maria Anakotta
When did you join the Alzheimer’s Association?
My name is Maria Anakotta. In 2014 I spent a year at the Association as a practicum student and in November of 2018, I joined as an employee.
Where are you from?
I was born in Mexico City.
What are some things that bring you joy?
Reading, coloring, listening to music and early morning walks are some things I enjoy.
What inspired you to go into this line of work?
I like the human connection aspect of my work and helping people find tools and resources to support them in difficult times.
What is one piece of advice you have for caregivers?
Live in the moment, whether things are going well or not, support the person you care for; make them feel loved and understood, try to have fun with them.
If you need added support during this time, please call our 24/7 Helpline at 1.800.272.3900. Through this free service, specialists and masters-level clinicians offer confidential support and information to people living with the disease, caregivers, families and the public. Learn more here.