Honoring World Alzheimer’s Month in Delaware County

There are more than 6 million Americans with Alzheimer’s disease, many over the age of 65.

World Alzheimer’s Month is an international campaign led by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) every year during the month of September. ADI, with the help of the World Health Organization, is the international federation of Alzheimer’s and Dementia associations.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a type of brain disorder associated with gradual memory loss as well as the loss of other thinking and reasoning skills. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, impacting abilities that interfere with one’s daily activities of living. As the disease progresses, patients may lose more abilities, eventually becoming unable to eat and walk.

Age is a major risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. Data shows that there are six million Americans over the age of 65 whose lives have been impacted by Alzheimer’s. Symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life – look for signs like asking the same questions repeatedly or forgetting familiar locations
• Challenges with keeping track of information when making plans, solving problems, following recipes, etc.
• Difficulty speaking and writing
• Withdrawal from social activities due to challenges in keeping up with conversations and hobbies
• Impacts on the ability to maintain daily activities of living

The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model

The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center launched the Guide Model in July 2024 to support those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, as well as their unpaid caregivers. The model aims to educate caregivers on caring for loved ones with dementia and give them a break by assisting with access to respite services. By providing an alternative payment method for comprehensive dementia care and resources, caregivers will be better equipped to reduce stress, and patients can age more comfortably at home.

Delaware Palliative, a Delaware County Hospice program for those with serious illnesses, and Penn Memory Center, a source for those aged 65 and older seeking resources related to progressive memory loss, are both GUIDE Model Partner Organizations. This means that they can help clients meet care delivery requirements.

Resources for Delaware County PA

• The Hope Through Leisure Foundation is a support option for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Through community workshops, retreats, special events, and support groups, they aim to empower caregivers and improve their quality of life.
• The Alzheimer’s Association hosts the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s® in addition to advancing global research and providing support groups and education programs. Their Delaware Valley Chapter serves the Greater Philadelphia area.

Griswold In-Home Care Services

At Griswold, we know that caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding but also overwhelming. If you or someone you know is in need of a break, our team would be happy to support you through our in-home Respite Care services. Through Homemaking, Companionship, Personal Care, and more, our Caregivers provide a trusted source of relief. Give us a call to learn more today.