Alzheimer’s Association local chapter provides accessible resources
By Mary Anna Rodabaugh
There are more than 489,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease in Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The tri-state area is also home to more than 809,000 dementia caregivers. The Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association provides information and support for this region. The chapter offers many free programs and services. It serves people in the Greater Philadelphia area, the Lehigh Valley, Southern New Jersey and Delaware.
“Reaching, supporting and educating those across Philadelphia — and beyond — who are impacted by dementia and their families is critical,” said Amba Kasongo, director of programs, Alzheimer’s Association Southeastern Pennsylvania Chapter. “The diverse population we serve across the Philadelphia area requires us to be nimble and accessible while providing resources and events that are specific to their needs.”
Immediate help
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline. Callers can receive emotional support, crisis help, caregiving advice and local resources. The helpline is available in more than 200 languages. Call 1-800-272-3900 to get help.
“The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline remains a top resource — whether you’re in a moment of crisis, planning for the future or anywhere in between,” Kasongo said.
Connecting with others
The chapter offers several types of support groups for both caregivers and people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Early-stage support groups are for people who have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia. These groups provide a safe space to talk and connect with others. Screening is required before joining.
Caregiver support groups are available for people who care for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia without pay. In these groups, caregivers can share their experiences, receive emotional support and get practical advice from others in similar situations.
Support groups, led by trained facilitators, are offered both virtually and in person. To find a support group near you, visit www.alz.org/ events and select “support groups.” Participants should confirm meeting details with the listed contact. You can also call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-2723900 for assistance.
Every community is affected by Alzheimer’s differently. The association also offers special research efforts and resources for Black, Native American and LGBTQ+ individuals living with the disease.
“In Philadelphia, we host an annual Black and African American Caregiver Symposium, a no-cost event for caregivers. It covers topics such as caregiver identity and health; communicating effectively with family, friends and health care professionals; and legal planning, among others,” Kasongo said. “Building community and partnering with local leaders and organizations is key to earning trust and better serving those who need us most.”
People can also connect through ALZConnected, a free online community. Members can ask questions, share experiences and support one another. Learn more at www.alzconnected.org.
ALZNavigator
Receiving an Alzheimer’s or dementia diagnosis can feel overwhelming. ALZNavigator helps people figure out what to do next by creating a personalized action plan. After answering a few questions, users receive suggestions for local resources, educational programs, and helpful articles. Topics often include financial planning and home safety. The plan can be viewed online or printed.
More resources
The Alzheimer’s Association offers many educational tools. These include articles, weekly tips, webinars and virtual brain tours. These are available through the Community Resource Finder. Caregivers can also take part in the Empowered Caregiver education program. This helps them learn how to manage the challenges of caregiving. Caregivers can sign up for individual classes or complete the full series. Learn more at www.alz.org/help-support/ resources.
Mary Anna Rodabaugh is a writer, editor and writing coach.
