Individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementia can lose their ability to recognize familiar places and people. It’s not uncommon for a person with Alzheimer’s to become confused about their location or wander off, even in the early stages. Wandering behavior can be dangerous – even life-threatening – and they might not even realize they are putting themselves in harm’s way. Every minute counts when it … Continue reading What To Do When Your Loved One Wanders

The Association recently hosted a community forum with Multicare, Pierce County Human Services and the Pierce County Library System to learn more about the community’s lived experience. The meeting included constituents impacted by Alzheimer’s and other dementias and individuals who work in a profession that supports those on their journey with the disease. Topics discussed ranged from obtaining a diagnosis to finding resources to how … Continue reading 3 Key Takeaways from the Pierce County Community Forum

The Longest Day is a wonderful opportunity to come together, share in a joyful activity and make a difference in the lives of people impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The Longest Day is the day with the most light — the summer solstice. On June 21, thousands of participants from across the world fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s through an activity of their choice. Together, they use … Continue reading 21 Ways to Fundraise for The Longest Day

by local guest writer Brittany Klaassen van Oorschot, ARNP People with Alzheimer’s Disease thrive in familiar environments. They do best in the comfort of their own home with daily routines and often become agitated in new or uncommon situations. Historically, our healthcare system has struggled to adapt to these needs. Caregivers often take an entire day to bathe, feed, dress, and drive loved ones to … Continue reading Virtual Care for Patients with Alzheimer’s

A message from Mark Allen & Kristina Grey and Steve & Anne Knight, co-chairs of the Help + Hope Dinner. We were recently honored to serve as co-chairs for the Help & Hope dinner to raise awareness and critical funds in support of the Alzheimer’s Association in Washington. We are delighted to share the inaugural event raised over $365,000. As families impacted by Alzheimer’s and … Continue reading Help + Hope in the Fight to #ENDALZ

We know all too well that the journey with Alzheimer’s and dementia is not easy, but it’s helpful to know you are not alone. While there are many resources available to individuals and families facing Alzheimer’s or dementia, it can be hard to know where to begin. However, many find solace in reading about others’ shared experiences and learning about their process after a new … Continue reading 7 Must Reads from the Care & Support Team

Connecting through Technology: Supporting Dementia Patients with AI University of Washington Dementia & Palliative Education Network (UW DPEN) Update By Juana Gallegos, UW School of Nursing Student & 2022 Queen Silvia Nursing Award Recipient UW School of Nursing recent graduate Juana Gallegos has been selected as the second United States recipient of the UW Queen Silvia Nursing Award (UWQSNA) for dementia care.    Gallegos graduated with a Master … Continue reading Connecting through Technology: Supporting Dementia Patients with AI

Help the Corgi Bunch read their fundraising goal! DONATE NOW or text SOLSTICE to 51555, and enter CORGI at the prompt to donate! You’re corgi-ally invited! On July 23, Corgis from around Washington will be racing at Emerald Downs to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association through The Longest Day. Meet the Corgis The Corgi Bunch consists of Boris, Daphne, Harrison, Hugo, Rally … Continue reading Corgis for a Cure

By Bob Toomey & Scott Schill The determination of an Alzheimer’s diagnosis for a loved one, as with other progressive diseases, can feel devastating for the entire family. The road ahead feels uncertain, giving rise to questions and fears. Among the most common concerns after a diagnosis are burdening loved ones and putting the family’s hard-earned nest egg at risk as costs mount. There is … Continue reading The Role of a Financial Advisor in Dementia Care