Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia

Across Alaska the challenges faced by families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia (ADRD) of can be overwhelming. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for both the individual and the caregivers.

The individual may require a significant amount of support from the health care system which can be lacking, that is where our Care Coordinators come in. By joining the family as a team member their expertise will help guide the family through the maze of what next, how can we and I do not know where to go. Our Care Coordinators can lessen the stress and burnout many families experience.

ADRD

In addition to Care Coordination, our Education Department is dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD).  We teach best practices in dementia care to ensure dignity and comfort, until a cure is found…

Information, referrals, consultations and awareness events are open to the entire community whether you are a senior, family, professional or just an interested party.  We are just a phone call or visit away to help you better understand ADRD.  To access our free trainings visit www.alzalaska.org and click on the event calendar.

Click here to schedule an appointment

A few of our offerings include:

  • Memory screenings
    • Free confidential memory screenings are available by appointment and administered at any of our office locations.  Memory screenings must be done in person.  Call to schedule an appointment at your local office.
  • Consultations
    • Free confidential consultations are available for individuals, families and professionals to offer guidance in planning for the course of progressive dementia and other medical conditions.  Consultations can be held in-person or by phone.
  • Support Groups
    • An opportunity for and friends to meet regularly for mutual support. Support groups are offered throughout the state of Alaska we can help connect you with the group nearest you.
  • Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Mini Grants 
    • Specifically for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias, this grant program can assist in obtaining items or services when other funding sources are not available.  Confirmation of diagnosis and estimates are required.   Applications can be found on the web at www.AlzAlaska.org or www.mhtrust.org.
  • Lending Library
    • As part of the University of Alaska’s Consortium Library, we offer an extensive listing of materials on the topics of dementia, dementia care and diagnosis.  Current titles on topics of interest to family and professional caregivers are available at all our locations and a number of resources can be found online at www.AlzAlaska.org.
  • Mind Matters 
    • An educational and support program for those with early memory loss. Participants learn strategies to adapt with confidence and are encouraged to continue an active lifestyle.
  • Art Links
    • Art Links is a weekly art program that provides a vehicle for self-expression for the memory impaired person. Family and friends are invited to participate. Classes are held in Anchorage and Palmer every Friday.


EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

For Family and Friends:

  • ABC’s of Caregiving
    • Two-hour workshops are offered every month for people caring for persons with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders. The “ABC’s of Caregiving” classes are free and held regularly in Anchorage, Palmer, Fairbanks, Juneau and the Copper River Basin. Topics include communication techniques, caregiving fundamentals, legal issues and Medicaid/Medicare concerns.
  • Savvy Caregiver
    • A family caregiver education program that takes place over the course of 6 weeks, two hours each week. The program focuses on improving the practice of caregiving for both the individual living with ADRD as well as the caregiver. Classes offered in Anchorage, Palmer, Fairbanks and Juneau.

For Professionals

  • Savvy Professional
    • A one-day workshop that shares essential knowledge, practical skills and visionary outlook in dementia care. For those whose roles require dementia capable leadership, advocacy and mentoring.
  • Dementia Care Essentials
    • A training program for direct service workers wanting to improve their skills when caring for individuals with dementia.  It offers an overview of Alzheimer’s disease, understanding the dementia experience, communication skill development and enhancing activities of daily living. Past participants have included: respite workers, personal care attendants, care coordinators, home health workers, adult day, assisted living home, and long-term care staff. Currently offered in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau and Palmer. Classes can also be done via video conferencing.
  • Dementia Care Workshop
    • A four hour workshop designed for long term care facilities and large organizations that need the fundamentals of dementia care. Facilities across the state can organize a workshop by calling the education department in Anchorage.

For Anyone

  • Mental Fitness 
    • A social and mentally stimulating program to help improve or maintain mental activity. Classes are held throughout the state at Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska offices and local senior centers.
  • Awareness Presentations 
    • For anyone interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.  Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska presents at civic groups, churches, and organizations.  Call to schedule a presentation.

Contact Us

Anchorage
1750 Abbott Road
Anchorage, AK 99507
(907) 561-3313
Fairbanks
565 University Avenue, Suite 2
Fairbanks, AK 99707-2791
(907) 452-2277
Juneau
3225 Hospital Drive
Juneau, AK 99801
(907) 586-6044
Matanuska-Susitna Valley
Trinity Barn Plaza
Mile 2.2 Palmer-Wasilla Hwy
Palmer, AK 99645
(907) 746-3413