CAREGIVERWest Virginia Chapter Winter 2010

1.800.491.2717 www.alz.org/wv

March 14-15, 2011 • Charleston Civic CenterConfronting Challenges, Exploring Solutions

The Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter’s Annual Education Conference is the most comprehensive education venue in West Virginia dedicated to improving the way you care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.Confronting Challenges, Exploring Solutions is your opportunity to learn from the best as we take a hard look at the challenges of Alzheimer’s and work together to find solutions. We will be featuring

three topics that often present extremely challenging situations for families and healthcare professionals: Driving, Sexuality and End of Life Decisions.We will kick off this year’s conference with a dinner on the evening of March 14. Our dinner keynote speaker is Christopher Colenda, M.D, M.P.H, Chancellor of WVU Health Sciences. Dr. Colenda has been honored for his work in geriatric psychiatry. Prior to coming to West Virginia, he served as the Jean and Thomas McMullin Dean of the College of Medicine of Texas A&M Health Science Center and Vice President for Clinical Affairs.He has held previous academic and administrative appointments at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine and Medical College of Virginia of Virginia Commonwealth University.

Workshops include:

For more information, contact Nicole Gates at 1.800.491.2717 or nicole.gates@alz.orgFor sponsorship or exhibitor opportunities, contact Jane Siers at 1.800.491.2717 or jane.siers@alz.org

Elderly Driving AssessmentShirley Neitch, MD, Professor of Medicine, Chief of the Section of Geriatrics, Marshall University, Director Hanshaw Geriatric Center

End of Life: The Dilemma of Feeding TubesTodd Goldberg, MD, Director of Geriatrics and Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Charleston Division/Charleston Area Medical Center, Charleston, WV

Sexuality and Dementia - Creating an Approach to Understanding and SupportCara Ellis, BS, RD, CDP, Genesis Health Care, Regional Dementia Specialist

“I Remember When” preserving memories and moments with the StoryCorps method for reminiscing

Planning According to Stage: How to use the Global Deterioration Scale to plan appropriate interventions and activities for the person with dementia

Annual Education Conference Moves to March

Our first-ever “Person Comes First Award” will be presented March 14 to the direct care worker who best exemplifies the philosophy of person centered care. Visit our website or call 1.800.491.2717 for the nomination form!

Inside This EditionChapter News ................... 2

Memory Walk ................... 4

Development .................... 6

Awareness ........................ 7

Training & Education ....... 7

Caregiving ........................ 8

Medicine & Science ........10

Public Policy ....................11

Support Groups ............. 12

Tributes ........................... 13

Miscellaneous .................14

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Dr. Christopher C. Colenda, M.D, M.P.H.

The “Other Dementias” & Their Specific ChallengesAnthony Park, MD, Medical Director, Sr. Care Services River Park Hospital

Other Topics Include:

And more...

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I don’t often use the word “awesome.” Maybe I am just old and jaded, but rarely do I find that particular word to be necessary. But recently I did experience something that was AWESOME.

We recently began a 12 session support group for individuals with early or “young” onset Alzheimer’s. You may recall that “young onset” is the most recent term for Alzheimer’s when the

symptoms appear before age 65. Seven brave people came to the first session of this new program. I was privileged to be allowed to sit in on the meeting. As the participants introduced themselves, the facilitator asked them to share what symptoms or circumstances had lead them to realize something was wrong, what their actual diagnosis was, and also to share why they had come to the group.

I have imagined many times, how I might feel should I ever face a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. I am sure I can never truly gauge how I would feel, until faced with that precise situation. But I did curiously anticipate comments that the individuals in the group might share.

The first individual said he “wanted to make things easier for the next person - find ways to help others going through what I have gone through.” The next person said “I have questions, but I also want to focus on what is still good in my life.” The next person said, “I want to discuss ways that I can remain independent as long as possible.” Someone else said, “I want to turn a negative into a positive,” and finally someone said, “I want to us to band together to get some things done!”

As the discussion moved forward, the laughter increased, the bonding happened, and I thought, “This is awesome. This is incredibly awesome.” These individuals facing a HUGE challenge, who are still young and vital yet had received what some would call a devastating diagnosis, were so POSTIVE! So determined! So inspiring! And truly awesome.

How can we be anything less? So please, join me and these awesome individuals and work with us, to “make things easier for the next person,” to “turn a negative into a positive” and to “band together to get some things done.” In this new year lets MOVE even further with our impact, our focus and our important work. See you next year!

Chapter News

From the Executive Director

Chad BroadwaterAndrew Brownfield

Teresa CookShanna Hall, MSW, LGSW

David Higgins, Esq.William H. Hutchens, Esq.

Candace Jones David Scott Saunders

Edward C. Martin, Esq.Tracy Moody

Camille M. Riley, Esq.Wallace F. Suttle, II, CPA

Philip TurnerAngela Vance

Annette Zavareei, Ph.D.

Caregiver is published quarterly by the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter, a non-profit, tax-exempt organization. Reprint permission may be requested from the Chapter. Permission is hereby granted to all Alzheimer’s Association Chapters to excerpt materials from this newsletter for use in their public information programs, with proper credit to us.All material in this newsletter is offered as information to our readers. The Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter, cannot warrant, endorse or recommend any provider, program or product.

West Virginia Chapter2010-11 Board of Directors

OfficersAnn Stottlemyer, President

Jerry Walker, Vice PresidentBecky Deem, SecretaryBarry Dobson, Treasurer

Susan Graves, CPA, MBAFinance & Technology

DirectorJane Siers

Development DirectorEileen Goldberg, RN, APN-BC

Program SpecialistAmy Ernst

Education Specialist J.T. Hunter

Family Services Assistant

Wendy HamiltonRegional Coordinator

Mid-Ohio Valley RegionPam Shriver

Regional Coordinator Northern Region

Lindsay DavisCommunication Assistant

Nicole Gates, LGSW, MSWFamily Services Director

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Chapter Office1111 Lee Street East

Charleston, WV 253011.304.343.2717

Mid-Ohio Valley Office1218 Market Street

Parkersburg, WV 261011.304.865.6775

Northern Regional Office1299 Pineview Drive Ste. 3Morgantown, WV 26505

1.304.599.1159

1.800.491.2717 www.alz.org/wv

Directors

StaffJane Marks

Executive Director

Chapter News

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AthensApril 9, 2011Location TBA

ClarksburgApril 9, 2011

Meadowbrook Mall

MorgantownApril 30, 2011

WVU Coliseum

ElkinsMay 14, 2011

Railroad Depot

Spring 2011 Memory Walks

Register today at www.alz.org/wv

Join a Memory Walk Planning CommitteeDo you have a passion for Alzheimer’s disease and Memory Walk? Put your passion to work by joining one of our Memory Walk planning committees near you! Memory Walk is at the heart of the Alzheimer’s Association and is what propels our important mission forward. Helping to plan Memory Walk is fun, rewarding and easy! For more information about how to help, call 1.800.491.2717.

AthensBeckley/Oak Hill

Bluefield/PrincetonClarksburgCharleston

Eastern PanhandleElkins

Greenbrier ValleyHuntington

Mid-Ohio ValleyMorgantown

Romney Wheeling

2011 Memory Walks

Chapter NewsChapter News

New Development Director We are please to welcome Jane Siers to the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter as Development Director. Jane brings a wealth of experience to our organization. Her history of major gift development as well as broad focused fundraising will enable us to build our capacity to underpin the work to fulfill our mission. Jane most recently has been the Community Support Manager for West Virginia Public Broadcasting. Welcome to the family, Jane!!

Nicole Gates, LGSW, MSW has joined us as Family Services Director in our Charleston office. In addition to her master’s degree in social work, Nicole holds a certificate of gerontology. She has worked in long-term care as well as with the AARP Foundation. Nicole looks forward to the exciting work before her at the Alzheimer’s Association. Welcome to the family, Nicole!

New Family Services Director

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Statewide Memory Walk SponsorsPremier Sponsor:

Gold Sponsors:

Memory Walk

THANK YOUMemory Walkers, Donors & Sponsors!

RomneyTotal Raised: $4,354.00 Total Participants: 47

Mid-Ohio ValleyTotal Raised: $30,473.88Total Participants: 297

Beckley/Oak HillTotal Raised: $28,384.00Total Participants: 286

Wheeling Walk and 5 Mile Run to the Dam

Total Raised: $16,044.00Total Participants: 435

Greenbrier ValleyTotal Raised: $5,649.00Total Participants: 90

HuntingtonTotal Raised: $27,393.00 Total Participants: 357

Bluefield/PrincetonTotal Raised: $24,457.00Total Participants: 258

Eastern PanhandleTotal Raised: $23,034.00Total Participants: 218

CharlestonTotal Raised: $114,717.00Total Participants: 1,047

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Autumn AcresBayer CropScience, Institute

Broadmore Senior LivingBrown, Edwards & Company, LLP

Comfort Keepers

DOW ICG

Martinsburg Civitan ClubPark Health

Pilot Club of Greater Kanawha Valley

The Pilot Club of Huntington, WVTOYOTAVerizon

WesBanco Bank, Inc.

Alex M. Pentino Family DentalAmedisys

Amedisys Hospice Services of BluefieldAppalachain Pest ControlArea Agency on Aging 8

Arnett & Foster, PLLCBraley Care Homes

Cabell County Medical Society AllianceChad W. Broadwater, State Farm Agent

Charleston Gardens Assisted LivingEagle Pointe

Eight O’Clock CoffeeFayette Nursing & Rehab

Golden LiVing Center-Glasgow

Hanshaw Geriatric CenterHeartland of Riverview

HIMGHouse Calls Home Health

Huntington Federal Savings BankHuntington Health & Rehab

Jan-Care Ambulance Services, Inc.Jefferson Security Bank

Madison ParkNARFE Chapter 0171

Ohio Home Care of BelprePeterson Rehabilitation Hospital

Pioneer Home MedicalPlateau Medical Center

Princeton Community Hospital

Raleigh County Commission on Aging, IncRight at Home

Riverpark HospitalRiver’s Bend Health Care

SarahCare Adult Day ServicesSenior Friends at Raleigh General

HospitalShuman, McCuskey & Slicer, PLLC

The CantinaThe Welty Home, LC

Valley Haven Geriatric CenterVisiting Angels of Southern WV

Wheeling Hospital

Acorn AccountingAHIEA, Inc.

Altenheim Resource & Referral CenterCabell Huntington Hospital

CASEWVCole Chevrolet

Community BankDr. Varga, Panhandle Neurology Center, Inc

First State BankGenesis Health & Rehab, McConnelsville

Heartland of RainelleLantz Law Office:LOOP PharmacyMack’s Oil, Inc

Macon ConsultingRamey Motors

RealCorp, IncThe Brier Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

The Estate & Elder Planning CenterVaught, Inc

Visiting AngelsWilliamstown BankWVU Hospitals-East

Wyngate Senior Living Community

Homewood at Williamsport In Honor of Jerry Gregory Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield

Sears Mounment Company

102.9 WELCArmstrong Media

ComcastConnoisseur Media

Marietta Times

Prettyman BroadcastingTalk Radio WRNR AM 740 Martinsburg

V100V96.9

Willie 97.3

WKKX WTAP-TV

WVNSWNVS-TV

Silv

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ronz

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edia

Patr

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Memory Walk

Fall 2010 Memory Walk Sponsors continued

To view more Memory Walk pictures, visit www.alz.org/wv

Development

Thank You Dancing Through Time Sponsors!Dance Floor Sponsor

MylanDecade Sponsors

Mountain State Medical Specialties, Inc. West Virginia Junior College at Morgantown

Special thanks to our committee for all of their hard work!

Dancing Through Time

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Our first-ever “Dancing Through Time” event was held on October 30, 2010 at Lakeview Golf Resort & Spa in Morgantown. The event combined an evening of fun and fundraising with a “Dancing With The Stars” competition as the feature of the night. Over 85 people attended and danced the night away to music

provided by Image Studios, Inc. The main event was a dance competition between three Morgantown “stars” who were partnered with professional dancers. Each team was assigned an era from which to choose their music and dance routine. “Star” Doug Mitchell, the Administrator of Chestnut Ridge Hospital and his professional partner, Fiona Morris, danced a 1950’s Cha-Cha to the 1950s. “Star” Julia Barry,

WVU sophomore and Alzheimer’s advocate, danced a 1960s swing dance with her professional partner, Bill Duff. Our third team and Winners of the event, “Star” Leanne Boyd, Fitness Director of Health Works in Morgantown and her professional partner, Davey Douylliez danced a 1980’s Cha Cha. The winners were chosen based on the number of votes they received from online donations prior to the event and donations at the event. We’d like to say a HUGE thank you to all our dancers. We sincerely appreciate the time and effort they put in to making this event a huge success. Thank you to all who supported and attended this event. We raised nearly $10,000!!

WinnersLeanne Boyd & Davey Douylliez

Thank you to our dancers! Left to Right- Fiona Morris & Doug Mitchell, Davey Douylliez & Leanne Boyd, Julia Barry & Bill Duff

6Cocktails for a Cause!Reagan Birthday Bash

Planning committee forming now! Call 1.800.491.2717 to join!

11th Annual Thanks for the

Memories Event

Call 1.800.491.2717 to join the 11th Annual Thanks for the Memories Event planning

committee!

May 20, 2011

Community WorkshopsOpen to the PublicDecember 1 | 5:30 p.m.Holiday StressAlzheimer’s Association, Morgantown Office 1299 Pineview Drive, MorgantownDecember 6 | 1 p.m.Caregiver StressO’Neil Center Senior Center333 Fourth Street, Marietta, OH Contact: 1.740.373.3914December 16 | 10:30 a.m.Holiday StressPhilippi Senior Center, PhilippiJanuary 5 | 5:30 p.m.Caregiver StressAlzheimer’s Association, Morgantown Office 1299 Pineview Drive, MorgantownJanuary 13 | 10:30 a.m.Caregiver StressHarrison County Senior Center, ClarksburgJanuary 18 | 5:30 p.m.Caregiver StressAthens County Public Library,Athens, OHContact: Wendy Hamilton 1.304.865.6775January 20 | 10:30 a.m.Caregiver StressPhilippi Senior Center, PhilippiFebruary 2 | 5:30 p.m.CommunicationAlzheimer’s Association, Morgantown Office 1299 Pineview Drive, MorgantownFebruary 10 | 10:30 a.m.Caregiver StressHarrison County Senior Center, ClarksburgFebruary 17 | 10:30 a.m.Caregiver StressPhilippi Senior Center, PhilippiFebruary 17 | 10:30 a.m.CommunicationHarrison County Senior Center, ClarksburgFebruary 20 | 2 p.m.The Basics of Alzheimer’sWest Warren Baptist Church, WadestownContact: Sue Shriver, 1.304.662.6358

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Awareness

• Almost 90 percent of Americans who know someone with the disease are concerned that they or someone close to them will get Alzheimer’s.• The societal impact of Alzheimer’s disease-on government, families and business-totals about $300 billion per year. The cost of caring for a single person with Alzheimer’s is $56,800 a year, the bulk of it carried by each family.• More than half of the family caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s surveyed said it’s straining their family finances.• Nearly 65 percent of working caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s told us they need to come to work late, leave early or take time off from their jobs as a result of their caregiving responsibilities.• Half of women caring for someone with Alzheimer’s are providing more than 40 hours a week of care. A third of women caregivers care for their loved one 24/7.• 10 million women either have Alzheimer’s or are caring for someone with it. Women constitute about two-thirds of those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and also about 60 percent of the caregivers for those who have it.• A third of women caregivers are caring 24/7 for a person with Alzheimer’s. Nearly 40 percent say they had no choice in becoming a caregiver.• Almost two-thirds of all working caregivers report having to go to work late, leave early or take time off to provide care. Yet they get less support for elder care than they do for child care. So it’s not surprising that nearly half of all women caregivers report high emotional and physical stress.• Nearly a third of women caregivers rate the physical stress level of caregiving a 5 out of 5.

The Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Takes on Alzheimer’s is a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary anthology of every facet of Alzheimer’s disease-medical, sociological, political and economic and highlights the disproportionate impact on women as caregivers, advocates and people living with this disease. Maria Shriver and the Alzheimer’s Association released The Shriver Report in October to sound the alarm for Americans-women, men, government leaders,

corportations, nonprofits, churches and the press-to understand that almost a third of Americans have a family member with Alzheimer’s and that women are effectively a gender under siege by this disease. This report is the first to stress the impact of the disease on women and how the impact is compounded by the increased risk women have of developing the disease. The academic core of the report is composed of expert reviews of issues and trends, with analysis backed by the nationwide Alzheimer’s Association Women and Alzheimer’s Poll of 3,118 adults, including more than 500 Alzheimer caregivers. The report also includes original photography and a range of personal essays of those whose families were affected by Alzheimer’s.Visit alz.org/theshriverreport to purchase the book or to find more information.

Caregiver Lunch & Learns The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter will present a series of free lunchtime workshops for caregivers about Alzheimer’s disease and how to cope with various aspects of the disease. Call 1.800.491.2717 for more information about a Lunch & Learn near you!Creating a Safe & Therapeutic EnvironmentJanuary 7 | 12 p.m. New Vision Church of God, EleanorJanuary 13 |12 p.m. Clendenin United Methodist Church, ClendeninJanuary 20 | 1 p.m. Lincoln Primary Care, HamlinOptions for Care, Legal & Financial MattersApril 8 | 12 p.m.New Vision Church of God, EleanorApril 12 | 1 p.m.Lincoln Primary Care, HamlinApril 14 | 12 p.m.Clendenin United Methodist Church, ClendeninFor more details, contact Nicole Gates at 1.800.491.2717 or Nicole.Gates@alz.org.

The Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Takes on Alzheimer’s

Shocking Study Results from The Shriver Report

Author & advocate Maria Shriver

In Home Dementia Care Worker TrainingMarion County Adult Education Center will host “Dementia Caregiver Training” in Fairmont Spring 2011.Dates to be announced. Anyone interested should contact Amy Ernst, Education Specialist at 1.304.599.1159 if interested.

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Caregiving

Mom is just not herself anymore. She is having difficulty bathing regularly, she is no longer cooking. She doesn’t eat as well as she should and you are just not sure she should continue to live alone. And why does she need that ten room home when she really only uses three rooms? These are questions many families face, particularly if Mom has Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. One of several care options for aging adults is assisted living communities or residences. In West Virginia, in 2003, the regulations were changed to combine what had been called “personal care homes” and “residential board and care homes” into one category called assisted living residences.According to WV regulations the definition of an Assisted Living Residence is any living facility or place of accommodation in the state, however named, available for four or more residents that is advertised, offered, maintained or operated…for the express purpose of providing personal assistance, supervision or both to any residents who are dependent upon the services of others by reason of physical or mental impairment and who may also require nursing care at a level that is not greater than limited and intermittent nursing care. A small assisted living has a bed capacity of four (4) to sixteen (16). A large assisted living residence has a bed capacity of seventeen (17) or more. An assisted living is required to provide each resident with a bed in a bedroom. The rooms may be either private or semi private and there are size guidelines for the room. An assisted living facility is not required to have a private bathroom for each resident.The category of Residential Care Communities was created in 1997. That means “any group or 17 or more residential apartments, which are part of a larger independent living community and which are advertised for the express purpose of providing residential accommodations, personal assistance, and supervision on a monthly basis to 17 or more persons who may be dependent upon the services of others by reason of physical or mental impairment or who may require limited and intermittent nursing care but who are capable of self preservation and are not bedfast.” Such residential care communities must offer apartment units with lockable

doors, at least one bedroom, a kitchenette with a sink and a refrigerator and one full bathroom. And again, there are size guidelines. In a residential care community, no more than two individuals may occupy an apartment.In addition, there are Alzheimer’s/Dementia Special Care Units which are licensed to provide specialized services, 24 hours per day in a specialized unit for residents with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Special Care units must follow specific guidelines in terms of staff training, activities and design that is most appropriate for someone with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Families should understand that a facility may have a “locked” or secure unit for those with Alzheimer’s dementia but that does NOT necessarily mean that facility is a licensed Alzheimer’s or dementia care unit. As a licensed Special Care Unit there are very specific training requirements for staff as well as specific

requirements as to the design of the space. The Alzheimer’s Association WV Chapter has lists of all assisted living facilities in WV or you may visit the WV Office of Health Facility and Licensure and Certification website at www.wvdhhr.org/ohflac to search for assisted living facilities in WV. These differences can appear to be minimal and confusing to the flustered caregiver who is trying to find good quality care for a parent or loved one. In essence, it may be that mom or dad will not be able to reside in a residential care community as long as he or she would be

able to remain in an “assisted living” community. Thus it is very important to ask detailed questions and to clearly understand the services the facility will provide and how much “assistance” mom will actually be given. It is even a good idea to set up a meeting with the Admissions Director once you have selected a facility. This would be a time to tour the facility again, review care options and ask any additional questions, before move in day. Prior to admission, someone from the facility will need to do an initial assessment of your loved one to determine if she is appropriate for the level of care provided by the facility. Make sure YOU feel comfortable with the assessment. Recently a caregiver felt the initial assessment was not accurate. Once Dad went to the assisted living facility he was not able to care for himself as well as the initial assessment had seemed to indicate. The facility

Assisted Living 101

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Caregiving

Should I Get Genetic Testing?On a recent nighttime TV drama, a character, whose mother suffered from Alzheimer’s, was contemplating genetic testing to see if she would get it. As usual with TV, what is portrayed on the screen is not always reality.

Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD), with the onset of symptoms after age 65, is the most common form of Alzheimer’s. It is not considered a genetic disease because no single gene determines if an individual will develop the illness. However, genetics undoubtedly play a role in the disease because having a first-degree relative with Alzheimer’s increases the risk for getting the disease. In addition, a rare form of the disease called early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (eFAD), which typically appears before age 50 (sometimes as early as the late 20s), is hereditary—if a parent has the disease, his or her offspring have a 50-50 chance of also being affected. Most cases of eFAD have been linked to mutations (genetic changes) in a gene called presenilin-1 (PS1); at least two other genes, PS2 and amyloid precursor protein (APP), have also been linked to eFAD. Genetic testing can be used to predict whether a person will develop eFAD; however, many people choose not to get genetic testing for a progressive, incurable and ultimately fatal disease.Some genes also raise a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s. In 1993, a team of scientists showed that a variant in the APOE gene, called APOE-e4, confers a high risk of developing LOAD. The APOE gene produces a protein called apolipoprotein, which shuttles cholesterol, other fat-carrying proteins and

other fat-soluble substances through the bloodstream. To this day, APOE-e4 remains the strongest genetic predictor of risk, although many individuals with the gene variant never get Alzheimer’s disease while others who lack the variant do get the disease. Overall, a person’s risk of developing LOAD increase about 12-to-15 fold if he or she has two copies of the APOE-e4 gene (one inherited from each parent). People with two copies of the APOE-e4 gene also have a much younger age of onset than those who develop Alzheimer’s but have only one copy or no copies of this variant. Scientists believe that, with time, other genes will be found that influence the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, and they are scanning and sequencing the entire genome to find genes and mutations that are associated with the disease. One such gene, identified in 2007 and call SORL1, is involved in transporting amyloid protein. Another recently identified gene is called TOMM40. This gene sites near the APOE gene and may have an even stronger relationship with age of onset than APOE variants do. TOMM40 exists as either a short, long or very long form, with long forms associated with earlier age of onset. Even more recently, variants in a gene called FTO, which is associated with obesity and diabetes, were shown to be associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the presence of APOE-e4. Genetics may also play a protective role in the development of Alzheimer’s. Relatives of non-demented elderly people face a risk 11 times lower than the risk for relatives of people with Alzheimer’s. Because of these genetic influences, people often want to know if a genetic test is useful in predicting their chances of developing Alzheimer’s. Genetic testing must be considered very carefully by an individual and his or her physician. Persons considering this testing should receive genetic counseling before a test is

Early Onset Support GroupThe Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter is offering a new support group to those 65 years old or younger who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a related dementia or some form of progressive degenerative disease disorder. This early or young onset support group has been meeting every other week, in our Charleston office, since September.This is a time limited support group and a new session will start in the spring. If you wish to participate in a future support group, contact Eileen Goldberg at 1.800.491.2717 or eileen.goldberg@alz.org.

Topics Include:• Living with a progressive illness• Preserving memory and function• Managing everyday life• Maintaining autonomy• Making good decisions about driving• Maintaining healhty intimate relationships• Planning for the future

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Medicine & Science

Alzheimer’s Disease Moves from 7th to 6th as Leading Cause of Death According to the Center for Desease Control and Prevention National Center for Health Statistics, Alzheimer’s disease is now the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and estimates that 74,632 Americans died of Alzheimer’s disease in 2007. Today, as many as 5.2 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and experts predict by 2050, there will be almost a million new cases each year. “The fact that there are no effective treatments for Alzheimer’s has allowed the disease to pass diabetes. It is vitally important that we increase Alzheimer’s research funding to slow or stop the progression of this devastating disease,” said William Thies, Ph.D., Vice President of Medical and Scientific Relations at the Alzheimer’s Association.See page 11 or visit www.alz.org/wv to become an advocate.

Another Reason to Quit

The makers of Aricept®, a medication used to treat the symptoms of moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s, have released a higher-dose tablet. The higher dose (23 mg) is intended for individuals with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s who have been on the 10 mg dose for at least three months. The 23 mg dose was tested against the 10 mg dose in a clinical trial of more than 1,400 people with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s. Researchers found the higher dose did not have a statistically significant difference

in a test of overall function, but

did have a statistically significant difference in a test of cognition or thinking abilities. The 23 mg dose has similar side effects to the

smaller doses, but these side effects occurred more often in people taking the higher dose than in those taking the lower dose. Aricept® will not stop or cure the disease, but about half of the people who take it experience some benefit. Those who respond to the drug may show moderate improvement in cognition, general function or behavior. Individuals should consult with their physician to learn more about the potential risks, side effects and benefits of this drug.

Aricept® in New Dosage

A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that heavy smoking in midlife was associated with a greater than 100 percent increase in risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia more than 20 years later, particularly for those who reported smoking two or more packs per day. But, there is a silver lining. If you smoke, ending your smoking

could reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. There was a time when people thought smoking might be protective against Alzheimer’s; however it was actually because people died of other causes before they developed dementia. Efforts to reduce smoking, increase physical activity, better manage high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as engage in intellectually and socially stimulating activities help maintain brain health as we age, and may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.

DHA & Alzheimer’sAccording to results released from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) showed no slowing of cognitive or functional decline in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease. Although there is no basis for recommending the DHA supplement, which is an omega 3 fatty acid, it remains a possibility that an intervention with DHA might be more effective if initiated earlier in the course of disease in patients who do no have overt dementia. This trial was conducted by the Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study and supported by the U.S. National Institute on Aging and Martek Biosciences Corporation. As of now, knowing the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease is vital to being diagnosed early and receiving the best help and care available. To learn more about the 10 warning signs, visit www.alz.org/10signs.Sign up for our monthly e-update to recieve news

from the Alzheimer’s Association more often!www.alz.org/wv

110,000 + signatures with your support!Thank you and congratulations! The Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride has collected more than 110,000 signatures for a petition asking Congress to make Alzheimer’s disease a national priority. We deeply appreciate your efforts to make this goal a reality. On Sept.21, World Alzheimer’s Day, participants cycled to Capitol Hill to deliver your signatures to Congress. The presentation marks the culmination of a cross-country journey that began in San Francisco and involved more than 55 Alzheimer researchers cycling over 4,500 miles to raise awareness and support for the cause. To view more photos

from the event, visit www.alz.org/breakthroughride.com.The Alzheimer’s Association delivered the message of the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride in a special White House briefing on Alzheimer’s disease. The meeting was a good step from this Administration toward a real and sustained effort to lead the fight against Alzheimer’s. Harry Johns, Alzheimer’s Association President and CEO, and National Board Member Stephen Hume, Psy.D., an individual living with the disease, made presentations at the meeting, focusing on the urgent need for action. The Alzheimer’s Association will continue to create and pursue every opportunity to impress upon the nation’s leaders the scale of this disaster, the necessity of a coordinated national Alzheimer’s strategy, and the need for its swift implementation.

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Public Policy

ACTAt each of our Memory Walks, participants had the opportunity to become an advocate for Alzheimer’s disease. By simply filling in your name and address, you are telling congress to ACT now. We need your VOICE in the fight aganist Alzheimer’s. Together we can create a world without Alzheimer’s disease. To become an advocate, visit www.alz.org/wv and select Advocate to join the cause.

Collaboration to Make a DifferenceThe West Virginia Long Term Care Partnership, a project of the WV Community Voices Inc, funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation has awarded a grant to the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter to coordinate a series of roundtable meetings to examine underlying issues associated with behavior-related exits of people with Alzheimer’s disease from long-term care facilities.The reality of Alzheimer’s disease is that long term care is often the best option for the person with the disease. Yet the disease inherently may result in behaviors that can be considered challenging. How do we provide safe and appropriate care for these individuals?The WV Chapter has recruited members of the roundtable from a broad array of individuals with both expertise and an interest in this issue. Members of the long term care community include: administrators and program specialists, representatives from the long term care ombudsmen program; family members of those with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, as well as staff from WV OHFLAC. In a series of three meetings, the roundtable will discuss the issue, review current regulations and practice, as well as identify options for substantive change whether it be through legislation, rule changes, or expanded staff training.Once again, working collaboratively to find solutions for those facing the challenge of Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter is providing leadership and focus as we work to fulfill our mission.

SAVE THE DATE!Ohio Memory Day | March 29, 2011

Please contact Wendy Hamilton at Wendy.Hamilton@alz.org or

1.304.865.6775 for more information.

Alzheimer’s Association President & CEO Harry Johns at the US Capitol

An Alzheimer’s family support group is a regular gathering of caregivers, family and friends of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias to discuss issues related to the disease and to caring for someone who has it. The purpose of a support group is to provide a non-threatening and non-judgmental place for participants to express their feelings and talk about their needs and concerns. A support group is a forum for exchanging information, getting practical ideas, learning about local resources and developing new friendships. Participation in a support group also provides emotional support. You’ll find people there who will listen and understand, so you are no longer alone. The Alzheimer’s Association wants to publicly thank all the facilitators who give so much of their time and energy to provide this positive opportunity for caregivers. Please call the Alzheimer’s Association at 1.800.491.2717 if you want to find a support group near you or endeavor to start a support group.

12

Support Groups

Athens County, OH Second Tuesday, 5:30 p.m. Athens Community Center Joan Stroh, 1.740.797.3528 or Lisa Snyder, 1.740.797.4561 Third Sunday, 3:00 p.m. Coolville United Methodist Church, Coolville Kay Riley, 1.740.667.3351 Cabell County, WV Second Monday, 1:00 p.m. The Woodlands, Huntington Leala Zappia, 1.304.697.1620 Last Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Underwood Senior Center, Huntington Terry Cunningham, 1.304.744.7634 Third Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. Heritage Center, Huntington Robin Cliff-Korne, 1.304.525.7622 Fayette County, WV Third Thursday, 2:00 p.m. Hidden Valley, Oak Hill Stacy Cooper, 1.304.465.1903 Greenbrier County, WV Fourth Monday, 3:00 p.m. Old Stone Presbyterian Church, Lewisburg Terry Cunningham, 1.304.744.7634 Hampshire County, WV First Monday, 2:00 p.m. Romney Senior Center Maria Stoker, 1.304.822.4030 Hancock County, WV Third Monday, 6:00 p.m. Weirton Geriatric Center, 3rd Floor Mary Ann Boyd, 1.304.723.4300 Harrison County, WV Second Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. Harrison County Senior Center, Clarksburg Amy Ernst, 1.304.599.1159 Third Thursday, 7:00 p.m. Salem Care & Rehab, Salem Amy Ernst, 1.304.599.1159 Kanawha County, WV First Wednesday, 11:45 a.m. Early-Onset Spouses Alzheimer’s Association Office, Charleston 1.304.343.2717

Last Thursday every other month, 5:30 p.m. Charleston Gardens, Charleston Fred Hudnall, 1.304.343.6600 First Thursday, 1:00 p.m. Hansford Senior Center, St. Albans Nancy Cipoletti, 1.304.344.9243 Second Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. Quarry Manor, Charleston Andi Nelson, 1.304.925.4663 Fourth Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. Marmet Health Care Center, Marmet Debbie Allman, 1.304.949.1580 Third Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. First Presbyterian Church , Charleston Terry Cunningham, 1.304.744.7634 Third Friday, 4:00 p.m. Dunbar Care & Rehabilitation Center, Dunbar Lisa Snyder, 1.304.744.4761 Logan County, WV First Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Logan Regional Medical Center, Carol Cole Educational Building, Logan Rhonda Richards or Pastor Rex Thompson 1.304.752.8723 Marion County, WV Last Thursday, 2:00 p.m. John Manchin Senior Health Care Center, Fairmont Judy Labdik, 1.304.363.2500 Marshall County, WV Fourth Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. Marshall County Senior Center, Moundsville Peggy Everly, 1.304.232.6730 Mercer County, WV Third Tuesday, 5:00 p.m. Princeton Health Care Center, Princton Vickie Jessee, 1.304.487.3458 Monongalia County, WV First Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. Alzheimer’s Association , Morgantown Amy Ernst, 1.304.599.1159 Morgan County, OH Third Tuesday, 2:00 p.m. Genesis Health & Rehab, McConnellsville Linda Tompkins, 1.740.962.3761 Morgan County, WV Second Tuesday, 2:00 p.m. Senior Life Services, Berkeley Springs Darinda Sherbert, 1.304.258.3096

Ohio County, WV Third Tuesday every other month, 6:00 p.m. Family Service Upper Ohio Valley Peggy Everly, 1.304.232.6730 *Adult Day Care provided free of charge Pleasants County, WV Third Monday, 3:00 p.m. Pleasants County Senior Center, St. Mary’s Brenda Truex, 1.304.684.9243 Preston County, WV Third Monday, 7:00 p.m. Heartland of Preston, Kingwood Melissa Groves, 1.304.329.3195 Putnam County, WV Third Thursday, 5:00 p.m. Broadmore Assisted Living, Hurricane Cassie Cain, 1.304.757.4778 Second Thursday, 6:00 p.m. Regency Place, Scott Depot Jennifer Allman, 1.304.757.3104 Raleigh County, WV Third Thursday, 2:00 p.m. Raleigh County Commission on Aging, Beckley Terri Tilley, 1.304.252.5606 Randolph County, WV Fourth Wednesday, 6:30 p.m. Colonial Place, Elkins Melissa Kilgore, 1.304.636.8600 Upshur County, WV Last Thursday, 2:00 p.m. St. Joseph’s Hospital, Buckhannon Donna Lewis, 1.304.473.2000 Washington County, OH Second Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. Marietta Center, Marietta Brenda Truex, 1.740.373.1867 Second Tuesday, 3:00 p.m. O’Neill Senior Center, Marietta Lois Sizemore or Brenda Truex, 1.740.373.1867 Wood County, WV First Wednesday, 1:00 p.m. Emmanuel Baptist Church, Parkersburg Joe Lantz, 1.304.422.9293

The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter, gratefully acknowledges the donors whose honorary and memorial contributions to the Chapter were received from 5/1/2010 - 10/1/2010

13

Tributes

IN HONOR OF:PAT CONAWAYWomens Ministries Int. WV ConferenceMARIAN HENDERSONMs. Sarah SprouseCHARLES WELCHMr. & Mrs. Matthew D. & Tina M. CorcoranMEMORIAL:ERVIN ALPERINMr. & Mrs. Frank & Tanya LawMARY LOU ANDERSONBureau for Public HealthMrs. Eugenia ThoenenROBERT E. ARMSTRONGMr. & Mrs. William & Shirlene CooleyMr. & Mrs. Randy & Marsha GuthrieMcGinnis, Inc.Mr. & Mrs. James & Betty RiceMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Karen WarmuthMr. & Mrs. Gene & Karen WilsonLAWRENCE BAUMANNMr. & Mrs. David & Anna LewisMr. Jeremy C. McCamicMr. & Mrs. Robert & Joann NormanMr. & Mrs. Robert & Doris SchaferMr. & Mrs. Don & Linda WagenheimMr. & Mrs. Phillip & Linda WrightJEANNETTE BLACKWELLMr. Jeffrey J FordMonongalia General HospitalTILLMAN BLANTONMr. & Mrs. Dwayne & Susan FearerMr. & Mrs. Keith & Betty LaughbaumMr. & Mrs. Junior & Eloine MethenyMr. & Mrs. Ronald & Marlene RemagenMr. & Mrs. Donald & Sylvia SummersTIM BLANTONMorgantown Area Private Duty,LLCROBERT BRAUDMs. Jennifer K. CuthbertsonMs. Evelyn MorinEverett, Carolyn & Michael ReevesMr. & Mrs. Harry & Zula RobinsonMr. & Mrs. Charles & Karen TornesMr. & Mrs. Gregory & Jean Vanway FRANK CAINMr. and Mrs. Donald & Judith EryMr. & Mrs. Jack & Barbara FarellMs. Else LambaPEO Sisterhood Chapter QCLETA BELLE CANTEESMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Eileen HillMrs. Mary Ann McClureZMM, Inc.JOHN CANTEESArmy National GuardMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Eileen HillGEORGIANA CASTOMr. & Mrs. Dean & Sharon Beckett

Ms. Joan Davy & FamilyBarry & Gail Knotts, & FamilyJuanita LacySilver BellesMr. Eugene L SlackFRED CHALFANTMr. & Mrs. Floyd & Cheryl HollidayMs. Josephine McQuainMABEL F. “DOLLY” COREYMs. Karen GraftonMr. Charles LowmanROBERT CURRENCE Mr. Robert CurrenceMs. Mary WaylandPAUL CURRYMs. Dolores A. KnappPATSY BETH DAVISMr. & Mrs. Terrence & Sheila MoranCLARA BELLE DENNINGMs. Karen GraftonDANICE DUNNMr. & Mrs. Scott & Tricia KingJOANNE ELBONTri-County Health ClinicJACKIE ELLIOTTMs. Dorothy BlackMs. Betty CunninghamMr. & Mrs. Larry & June HughesMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Sharon LockhartMr. & Mrs. Mark & Donna PauleyMs. Janet SundstromMARY MARJORIE ELLISMs. Jo Ann NaeserETHEL FAGGMr. & Mrs. Jon & Leulyn GeorgeMr. & Mrs. John & Cheryl RatliffMr. & Mrs. Robert & Leza RatliffMr. Ron RatliffNELL JEAN FAZIOMr. & Mrs. Brice & Nancy AbbottWILLIAM ARTHUR FERRELL SR.Ernestine ButlerMr. & Mrs. Robert & Sandra EvansMs. Juanita KentHESTER FIFEMr. & Mrs. Robert & Clara FifeIVAN FORTNEYMr. & Mrs. Carl & Patricia BolyardMr. & Mrs. William & Judith HarveyVaughn, Coast & Vaughn, Inc.MARGARET BURNETT FROMEMs. Susan NallyJOHN PATRICK GATENSMr. & Mrs. David & Nancy CarteARDELLA GIFFORDMr. & Mrs. John & Fran LentHUGH GOOCH, JRMs. Sue BrooksMichael, Nancy & Todd DonovanMs. Helen MorettoDOROTHY DUNSWORTH GRIFFITHAnonymousWILLIAM GLENN HAMNERMr. & Mrs. Darrell & Elizabeth BodkinMr. & Mrs. Sammy & Roberta Eubank & FamilyMr. & Mrs. Robert & Terry SigleyHARRIETT HEARNEMs. Mae Ellen WilsonROBERT HENDERSONMs. Jean AdamsMs. Sarah SprouseDORIS HERTZMs. Sandra BarnesClearon Corp.

Ms. Sharon CrawleyMs. Christina CrooksThe Jenkins FamilyMs. Ruth LewisMr. & Mrs. James & Judith MahoneyMr. & Mrs. Michael & Cheryl PettitMr. & Mrs. William & Stephanie TaylorJEFFREY HERTZClearon Corp.The Jenkins FamilyBARBARA HIGGINBOTHAMMr. & Mrs. John & Barbara HopkinsDARRELL JUNIOR HIVELYMs. Pamela PresslerMr. & Mrs. James & Karen WoodrumJOHN (BILL) HUGHESMr. & Mrs. Rod BerryMr. & Mrs. Ronald E. HensleyMr. & Mrs. Justin KnightMr. Robert E. NelsonROBERT HUSBANDMr. William Scott HillROBERT NEAL HUSTONFriends & Neighbors on 24th StMr. & Mrs. HaynesMr. & Mrs. Michael A. KingMr. James R ParsonsBERTHA JIVIDENMr. & Mrs. Glenn & Linda JividenEARNEST “LEW” JOHNSONRHS Class of 1948’s Breakfast GangRUTH JOHNSONMr. & Mrs. John & Susan StroganCALVIN C. JONESMr. & Mrs. Robert & Diane AllmanMr. & Mrs. David & Erin BranhamMr. Larry E. HoldrenMr. & Mrs. Fred & Donna HudginsMr. & Mrs. Fred & Janice PyattMs. Janet RaySt. Joseph’s HospitalDR. ALFRED JOSEPH SR.Mr. Robert D. CoreyDANIEL KNIGHTENMr. & Mrs. Bruce & Dorothy DeHavenEARL THOMAS “TOM” LIVELYMs. Mary FlynnMs. Margaret O. FosterDARLENE LONKERMs. Marian J. WillisMR. JOHN LOUGHAnnette DickMARGARET JEAN MARTINMr. & Mrs. Connie & Dick GarciaBryon & Stephanie Goldizen, & FamilyMr. & Mrs Greg HadjisMs. Carolyn SouthernDONNA MASTONBob, Carolyn and Nancy DavisMs. Helen KatzenMr. & Mrs. Gary & Cathy LittleMr. & Mr.s Allan & Linda PoffJAMES “BUDDY” MASTONMr. & Mrs. Gary & Cathy LittleJAMES W. MASTONCYTEC Industries Inc.JAMES STUART KEITH MCCHESNEYMs. Marian U. SunnergrenRICK & ANN MCKNIGHTMr. & Mrs. James & Patty FoxMr. & Mrs. Clifford & Joan ShankTERENCE J. MCPARTLAND III

Ms. Nancy BrightMs. Catherine MeoROGER MICHAELThree River ThimblersKATHRYN IRENE MICKMr. John KniselyMr. & Mrs. Marvin & Janet SummersVAUGHN GRIFFITH MILLERMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Eileen HillBETTY MORRISMs. Lita HogwoodMs. Ramona HoltMr. & Mrs. Kenneth & Barbara IceThe John Riel FamilyMr. R.J. McIntoshMs. Judy RichardsHILDA MORRISMs. Louise BaumanMr. & Mrs. Aaron HarlanMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Judith LeMastersMr. & Mrs. Gary LemonsMr. & Mrs. Joseph & Barbara PowellRoberta, Kenneth & Ina RobinsonMr. & Mrs. William & Barbara WagnerRobert & Nell YeagerHATTIE NUNLEYMr. & Mrs. Robert and Betty SkaggsJOSEPH PITROLOMr. & Mrs. Tanya & James BroslawskyMr. & Mrs. John & Karen DelligattiFirst Exchange BankHair Port Hair DesignHarrison County Association of RealtorsWilliam, Kathy & Alice HiggsMr. & Mrs. John & Rebecca MatternMs. Christa MenearMr. & Mrs. Guy & Donna PedutoMs. Jo Marie PitroloMartha, Elizabeth & Ronald WarrenBETTY POMPIEMr. & Mrs. Everett & Mary Rose TomlinEDWARD POTTERMr. Albert HottGEORGE W ROBERTJefferson High School Faculty & StaffDOROTHY ROBINSONMr. & Mrs. Bill and Joan GerwigJIMMIE LEE SAYGER SR.Alliance Petroleum CorporationMr. & Mrs. Michael & Sharon ButcherGenesis Health & RehabMr. Matthew WilsonREGIS HAROLD SCHAADMr. & Mrs. Dan & Joanne BohlNavarro Research and Engineering, Inc.WILLIAM SHAFFERMs. Jane E BrudetteMr. & Mrs. Jerry & Lois “Pokey” HalversonNorman Stemple TTEESocial Work Staff at William R. Sharp, Jr. HospitalMr. & Mrs. John Sprouse IIIMs. Charlotte M. StuartMs. Vicki L VarnerMr. and Mrs. George Zivkovich VIVIENNE WORL SHARPMs. Holmes Flint

MARY FRANCES SOWARDSMs. Maxine BirtMr. & Mrs. John & Eleanor KainMr. Guy P KinserMr. & Mrs. Pete & Bobbie LillyMr. & Mrs. Paul & Marie MorlachettaBetty Lou PriceGLENDIA JUNE SQUIRESMr. & Mrs. David & Brenda BolyardMs. Myrtle BolyardMr. & Mrs. Christopher & Judith ByrdFee Programs Unit & RMS Front Office StaffFriends and Associates of Mrs. Deborah WilliamsGary Gardner and FamilyMr. & Mrs. Donald & Jean GardnerMr. Donald M. GardnerMr. Timothy HeitzMr. & Mrs. James & Debra LongMr. & Mrs. Randy & Tamera MathenyMr. & Mrs. James & Carol McClainMs. Pamela ReeseEDITH STARKEYMr. & Mrs. Robert L SmithJOANN STEELMr. & Mrs. Howard and Barbara Sue ShriverMS. STINNETTConnie S. StinnettBETTY LOU STOYMr. & Mrs. Denver & Sandi HaughtMr. Frank H. StoyWARREN G. SULLIVANEmployees of Workforce WVJon Sims Auctioneering Company Inc.Mr. & Mrs. Robert & Mary OrrMr. & Mrs. David & Christina PalmerWesBanco Bank, Inc.ANDREW SUMMERSMr. & Mrs. Stephen & Suzanne SummersFRANCES SWARTZMr. & Mrs. Steven & Barbara SwartzBETTY VARNERMr. & Mrs. Ernest R. Fling, JrMr. & Mrs. Richard & Deborah ShafferMr. & Mrs. Jerry R. ShawMr. & Mrs. Jerry & Diane ShawDONALD WALKERMs. Sandra ClaybrookMr. & Mrs. Jeremiah & Mary GagnonJOAN WERNERMr. & Mrs. R.W. & Judy W. WilliamsFLORENCE WHITEFairmont Chapter No. 34 Order of the Eastern StarLEONARD WHITLOCKMr. & Mrs. Larry & Nancy ConantMr. & Mrs. Roger & Lydia CrislipMr. & Mrs. Mike & Sandy MossMr. & Mrs. Woodie & Debbie MossDWIGHT HANSON WILLIAMSChilders EnterprisesMs. Louise CootsMr. & Mrs. James & Diane GatherumROBERT W. WOLFEBetty HamiltonGENEVA ANDERSON WYNNEMs. Tina M. Robinette

14

Miscellaneous

•Meets OHFLAC guidelines for 2 hour mandated dementia training•Certificate valid for 1 year

•Work at your own pace•CEUs available•Only $15 + $6 for CEU Credits

Alzheimer’s Association Professional Web Based Training

suggested the family hire private caregivers to be with dad and assist him. This was a shock to the family who had assumed the care Dad would be receiving by the facility would be adequate. West Virginia law actually states that a resident is to have a “functional needs assessment within seven days of admission.” This will be to determine the individual’s health status, functional ability, psychosocial, activity and dietary needs. Family members should be aware that this may take up to a week. Recently a daughter reported her exasperation upon moving her father to an assisted living facility on a Friday. No one met the family to orient them to the facility or to the activities or programs at the facility. The daughter actually decided to stay with her father over the weekend as it was quite unclear what assistance her father would receive. On Monday she was told by the Director of the facility that “Friday admissions are always difficult. Most of our regular staff is not here.” SO…make SURE you are clear as to what will happen on the day your loved one moves in, and make sure there is a scheduled care meeting or orientation for you and your loved one as soon as possible after the move-in has occurred. In addition, be aware of how much “assistance” your loved one will actually receive. Does someone automatically show up to help get mom dressed each morning or will mom have to call for assistance? If Dad doesn’t want to go to the dining room to eat, can he have meals in his room? Is there an extra charge for this?Families should also be aware of the cost involved with assisted living. Unfortunately at this time, neither Medicare or Medicaid will pay for assisted living. Some long term care insurance policies will pay for assisted living and some will only cover a portion of the cost. Average costs could range from about $2,500 per month to more than $4,500 per month. Be sure to ask exactly what services are covered in the monthly fee. For example, one facility may include all utilities including cable television, another may charge extra for cable television.

Assisted Living 101, Continued from page 8

Effectively train your staff by the experts utilizing our web based training curriculum.

Download the curriculum at www.alz.org/wv. For more information contact Amy Ernst at 1.800.491.2717 or Amy.Ernst@alz.org.

ordered and when the results are obtained. Because there are no preventive treatments available, the results have no practical impact on medical treatment decisions. Consensus statements by professional groups-medical, genetic, and others-agree that APOE testing is not appropriate for individuals with no symptoms of dementia. And it must be repeated, the presence of any of these genes does NOT mean that you will develop Alzheimer’s, and individuals without these genes, sometimes do develop Alzheimer’s.Once again, these questions indicate the need for MORE research on the issue of genetics and Alzheimer’s. To learn more about Alzheimer’s research, visit www.alz.org/research.Adapted from The Shriver Report- Is There a Cure? Is There Hope? By Maria Carrillo, Ph. D.

Genetic Testing, Continued from page 9

It may also be advantageous to take your mom to lunch at the facility or to participate in a few activities that are open to the public before the move. This allows her to become familiar with the facility and have a positive experience before the move. Make sure to take many of mom’s personal items so she can feel at home. It may be a good idea for a family member to spend the first night with mom at the new location to help her adjust. Ask if this will be allowed. It may be difficult if mom is sharing a room. The West Virginia Assisted Living Association website may be helpful, www.wvala.org, as well as the WV OFHLAC website www.wvdhhr.org/ohflac. The West Virginia Healthcare Association also has information to help families in making decisions and can be accessed at www.wvhca.org. Assisted living can be a wonderful option for someone who needs some assistance but wants to remain as independent as possible. As with all choices, it is best to ask many questions and visit many facilities in order to make an informed decision. Hopefully, you and your loved one will be safe and happy and thrive with the new living situation you choose.

15

Just because he has Alzheimer’s, doesn’t mean his

days can’t be memorable.

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Warmth. Friends. Laughter.It’s just like home.

Quarry ManorCharleston, WV

Regency PlaceScott Depot, WV

Th e SeasonsLewisburg, WV

Th e Summit at Hidden ValleyOak Hill, WV

SPONSORS

Chapter News

Your Giving...The Holiday Season is a time to reflect on what we are thankful for, and here at the Alzheimer’s Association, we are most thankful for you! It is with your support as a volunteer, advocate, Memory Walker or donor we are able to continue to MOVE our mission forward. By recruiting your friends and families to donate to your Memory Walk team, giving to our Annual Appeal, attending one of our events or honoring family or friends through tribute gifts you are ensuring no one has to face this terrible disease alone. You are helping us to reach our ultimate goal of a world without Alzheimer’s disease. Each year we help thousands of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, their families, caregivers and communities through our free programs. Those programs are funded through your generous support.

We thank you for your continued support of our important mission.

Happy Holidays,

The staff & Board of Directors of the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia ChapterName: _________________________________________Address: _______________________________________City/State/Zip: ___________________________________Phone: ___________________________________________Email: ____________________________________________

Method of Payment:__ Check made payable to Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter

__ Credit Card: ___ Visa ___ MC ___ Discover ___ Amex

Name on Card: ______________________________________Credit Card Number: ___________________________________Expiration Date: ______________________________________Signature: __________________________________________

Mail or fax to: Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter 1111 Lee Street, East Charleston, WV 25301 fax 1.304.343.2723

You Make the Difference$50 provides free information packets for 10 Helpline callers$100 provides 1-hour long Care Consultation to a family just diagnosed with Alzheimer’s$250 purchases two professional videos for our training library$500 purchases 167 Caregiver Handbooks distributed to families facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease$1,500 pays the postage to mail one issue of The Caregiver to 12,000 + families across our Chapter area

24/7 Helpline 1.800.491.2717www.alz.org/wv

Be Our FAN! Search “Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter” on Facebook and FightAlzWV on Twitter!

Help the Alzheimer’s Association stay green! Please recycle this newsletter after you are finished by sharing it with your neighbor, local library, church or by taking it to the recyclers. Please call 1.800.491.2717 to inform us if you would no longer like to receive this free newsletter.

West Virginia Chapter1111 Lee Street, EastCharleston, WV 25301

www.alz.org/wv1.800.491.2717

We are fighting on your behalf 24/7to give everyone a reason to hope.

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit 2518

Chas. WV 25301The Greenbrier Classic Badges for Charity program is back! Badges are now on sale for the 2nd annual Greenbrier Classic, an official PGA TOUR FedExCup event, taking place July 25-31, 2011. When you buy your badges this year, choose to donate a portion of the sale to the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter.Visit www.greenbrierclassic.com and follow these simple steps.1. Select ‘Buy Tickets’2. Click ‘Buy Badges for Charity Now’3. Select the badge you wish to purchase4. Choose the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter and when you check out, a portion of the sale will come directly to us!There is a badge for every budget, ranging from $159 to $5,000 and all include passes to each day of the tournament and complimentary tickets to the Greenbrier Classic Concert Series. The first 5,000 to purchase a Grounds Badge will automatically upgraded to a Benefactor Badge and the first 2,000 to purchase a Benefactor Badge will be automatically upgraded to an Alumni Badge!

The perfect holiday gift for the golf lover...

It feels good to give back, plus you’ll enjoy a great golf event at The Greenbrier.