Alzheimer’s Respite & Resource (AR&R) has a new name:  Memory Matters!  We are a local non-profit organization committed to helping families who face the challenges of living with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and all other types of dementia.

Program Testimonials:

"I have seen my 90 year old mother- in- law transformed
from a disoriented, withdrawn woman into a more clear minded,
happier person who interacts with others and enjoys her life much more.
My husband and I thank (AR&R) for this transformation". Dianne F.

"I discovered your program and I must say it has been a wonderful experience from the beginning. At the beginning my mom was hesitant ..but with your dedicated and skilled staff that all disappeared. Mom is comfortable with everyone she interacts with, fed a healthy meal every program and stimulated with projects of trivia, art, exercise and Music. Where can I sign up?" Megan D.

Our program engages participants in both mental and physical stimulation through music, drama, art, yoga, exercise and mentally stimulating games. Our program also breaks down barriers of social isolation by providing camaraderie, fellowship and a sense of belonging. Click here for more information on our programs.

We also offer support and resources for caregivers. Our support groups are a safe, confidential place to share heartache, grief, frustrations and common experience. Memory Matters offers links to community resources, a crisis hotline and a lending library. Memory Matters also offers free presentations to groups and organizations. Please contact us for information on any Memory Matters service, or to send an email, Click here.

WORRIED ABOUT ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?

Early Warning Signs:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty performing familiar tasks
• Forgetting simple words
• Getting lost in time and place
• Poor judgment
• Problems with abstract thinking
• Misplacing things
• Rapid mood changes
• Dramatic changes in personality
• Loss of initiative or interest in one's usual pursuits

If you have several of these symptoms, discuss them with your physician. Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease is important.
 

WHAT IS ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE?

Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually even the ability to carry out simple tasks. It is a progressive, devastating and incurable illness that afflicts 4.5 million Americans at a cost of $100 billion a year. The cost of care is not only financial. Families, friends, and caregivers battle tremendous physical and emotional stress as they cope with the challenges of the declining health of their loved ones. Click here for more information about care giving.

Scientists are working to develop new treatments that may slow, reverse or even prevent the damage caused by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia. But in the meantime, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is recommended to help the mind and keep the memory sharp. Some suggestions include developing interests and hobbies; involvement in activities that stimulate mind and body; careful attention to physical fitness and exercise; limiting the use of alcohol; a healthy diet; eliminating/managing stress, anxiety and depression.

Caregivers

QUIET DESPERATION

"In the middle of the night, while most of America sleeps, they are awake--wives and daughters, husbands and sons--doing things they never imagined they would have to do.

A woman in her seventies struggles out of bed to change her husband's diaper for the third time. A husband in his eighties dresses his wife who has been wandering around the house for hours, and walks her to the car--driving seems to be the only thing that will calm her down. Daughters and sons sit by the bedsides of their elderly parents and talk to them, holding their hands or gently brushing their hair. For a fortunate few, parents still know and call them by name; for all too many that recognition disappeared months or years ago.  Click Here for More on Caregivers