Buffalo residents can learn helpful information on discussing Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias with loved ones and share their needs and concerns with professionals at two events during the last week of June.
The Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present “Tips for Tough Conversations,” a program on addressing signs of dementia in family members from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27, at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. in Buffalo, and a Community Forum from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 29, at the Delavan Grider Community Center, 877 E. Delavan Ave. in Buffalo.
“Tips for Tough Conversations” on June 27 will provide residents with tips for breaking the ice with family members so they can address some of the most challenging or uncomfortable issues related to dementia: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.
The Community Forum on June 29 is a chance for individuals, care partners, volunteers and staff to come together to talk about resources, programs and services available in their communities. Representatives from the WNY Chapter will review the basics of Alzheimer’s, dementia and memory loss and outline the services of the Alzheimer’s Association, while listening to suggestions about how to better serve the community.
Both programs are free and will include light refreshments. Individuals can participate in either or both of the programs and are asked to register by calling 800-272-3900. They can also register online at bit.ly/FWLTips for Tips for Tough Conversations or bit.ly/EBufForum for the Community Forum.
June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. An estimated 6.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, including more than 410,000 individuals in New York State. More than 546,000 New Yorkers provide unpaid care to their loved ones who live with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
Help is available 24/7 for people living with or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias at 800-272-3900 or by visiting alz.org.
