Alzheimer's Foundation of America
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) provides support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide, and funds research for better treatment and a cure.
AFA unites more than 2,000 member organizations from coast-to-coast that are dedicated to meeting the educational, social, emotional and practical needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, and their caregivers and families. Under AFA’s umbrella, these organizations collaborate on education, resources, best practices and advocacy —all resulting in better care for those affected by the disease.
AFA believes that by raising awareness of the disease and educating healthcare professionals and the public at large, we will: help remove the fear and denial surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses, lead to early detection and proper treatment, prompt greater utilization of community resources and ultimately improve quality of life.
AFA provides a wide variety of resources for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers. Whether you are just starting out on your journey with Alzheimer’s or dementia, or have been on the journey for a while, we are here for you. No one is alone on their journey.
The Importance of Resources for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers:
A strong support system is essential for an Alzheimer’s caregiver. AFA was founded by a family caregiver to be a resource for caregivers and a place they can turn to for help, guidance and support in their time of need. It is vital for caregivers to be supported and equipped to give their loved ones the best care possible.
AFA offers a number of different resources for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers, including:
AFA’s National Toll-Free Helpline
AFA’s Helpline is available 7 days a week. Alzheimer’s and dementia don’t take a day off, so neither do we.
Our Helpline is staffed entirely by licensed, dementia-trained social workers because we understand that when you need help, you want a qualified professional on the other end of the line.
We take calls, texts, or chats in 90+ languages to help those in need.
Caregiver Support Groups
Our licensed, dementia trained social workers lead weekly support groups by phone. These support groups give caregivers a place to connect and share, and be reminded that they are not alone.
Facts and Tips for Caregivers
When caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, knowledge is power. AFA has compiled a list of facts about Alzheimer’s and dementia, as well as tips for caregivers here. These helpful articles provide caregivers with the tools and knowledge they need.
Care Connection Webinar Series
AFA’s Care Connection webinars provide helpful tips and information from experts in the field of Alzheimer’s and dementia care, free of charge. Topics range from caregiving tips and tricks, to reducing one’s risk, to family dynamics, and everything in between. These webinars take place on the second Thursday of every month.
The AFA Teal Room
The AFA Teal Room is a virtual space where individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their care partners can enjoy therapeutic programing, such as music, art, dance/movement therapy, and more. Videos are posted daily.
The Apartment: A Guide to Creating a Dementia-Friendly Home
The Apartment is a prototype dementia-friendly living space, located in AFA’s headquarters in NYC. The Apartment combines mindful design with the latest technologies to show how people can create a space for their loved one which maintains their independence for as long as possible. A video tour of the apartment is available, which highlights all the relevant features, and paper guides with details are available on request.
Alzheimer’s TODAY Magazine
Alzheimer’s TODAY is AFA’s magazine for caregivers or others interested in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Each issue is full of helpful and uplifting articles. An Alzheimer’s TODAY subscription is free of charge, thanks to AFA donors.
About AFA’s National Memory Screening Program:
AFA’s National Memory Screening Program provides free, confidential memory screenings–administered by qualified healthcare professionals–to individuals across the country.
What is a memory screening?
A memory screening is a simple and safe “healthy brain check-up” that tests memory and other thinking skills. The memory screening is a series of questions and/or tasks that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and can indicate if someone might benefit from a comprehensive medical evaluation. It is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a physician or other clinician.
Why are memory screenings important?
They are a significant first step toward finding out if a person may have a memory problem. Memory problems could be caused by a number of medical conditions, including vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, and depression, as well as dementia-related illnesses including Alzheimer’s.
Some memory problems–such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems– can be readily treated. Other memory problems might result from causes that are not currently reversible, such as Alzheimer’s disease. In general, the earlier the diagnosis, the easier it is to treat one of these conditions.
Early detection of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may afford a person the opportunity to take advantage of treatments that may slow the changes in memory and thinking skills or participate in a clinical trial.
If the memory problem is the result of a dementia-related illness such as Alzheimer’s disease, early detection may enable the person to begin treatments and therapeutic interventions sooner, afford greater opportunity to participate in a clinical trial and take a more active role in developing their health, legal and financial plans.
Where can I get a memory screening?
AFA currently provides free memory screenings virtually through secure video conference technology every weekday. A smart phone, lap top, tablet or any other device with a webcam and Internet capability is all that’s needed. Appointments can be requested by calling AFA at 866-232-8484 or clicking here.
Additionally, many physicians perform memory screenings. Memory screenings are covered by Medicare as part of the Medicare Wellness Program, and are often covered by insurance companies as well. Check with your doctor for more information.
Have questions about brain health or memory concerns? Connect with the AFA Helpline.
AFA’s Member Network
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America’s (AFA) Member Network consists of organizations around the U.S. which provide direct care and services to individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias and their families. AFA member organizations include assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, adult day programs, home care companies, government and public safety agencies and more.
Becoming a part of AFA’s Member Network helps to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide.
Membership Details: https://alzfdn.org/membership/
CONTACT AFA:
Address:
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
322 Eighth Avenue, 16th Floor
New York, NY 10001
Phone: 866-232-8484
Email: info@alzfdn.org
