CAREGIVER

For the first time in West Virginia, early or “young” onset Alzheimer’s was the topic of a public discussion. This year the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter’s annual education conference, titled Alzheimer’s Care: Clear the Confusion II, included a panel discussion on the issue of what is known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. Early-onset is defined as symptoms occurring in an individual younger than age 65. As the numbers grow for those who exhibit the symptoms of Alzheimer’s in their 40s and 50s, even late 30s, there is growing use of the term “young-onset.” This terminology helps ease the confusion with the term early stage Alzheimer’s and according to some, more clearly defines the condition as one NOT JUST associated with old age.

The panel discussion consisted of three caregivers of individuals with “young-onset,” two individuals with young-onset Alzheimer’s and a local neurologist. The panel’s discussion focused on the unique issues, problems and emotions associated with the disease manifesting itself in those not yet considered “senior citizens.” Each panelist was open, honest and shared both humorous and poignant examples of life with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, often evoking tears from those in

attendance. Their openness and wisdom were a testament to their determination to change the way we all think and treat individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Norman Smith, Ph.D. served as the Vice President for Academic Affairs at Wilmington College in Ohio where he taught for 30 years. He has published a book and many articles in his field of sociology. He actually expressed relief at finally hearing the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s at age 61. He said, “I was so sick of hearing people say I was just getting old. I knew it was more than that.” When asked how most people react when they learn he has Alzheimer’s, Norman related that one of his close friends came to visit for the weekend and “treated me like a little kid. I finally told him to stop lecturing me and treating me like that or he could just go to a hotel.”

As is often the case with early-onset, Norman has experienced considerable financial difficulty. After the disease progression forced him to retire from Wilmington College, he had to switch to a COBRA insurance plan until he was eligible for Medicare. With one year to go before Medicare eligible, Norman has nearly

West Virginia Chapter December 2008

1.800.491.2717 www.alz.org/wv

Our mission is a dual one. We are not only focused on education, care and support but also on research. That focus is the one that will eventually create what we all envision… a world without Alzheimer’s. While we do not engage in research as an organization, the Alzheimer’s Association works to accelerate the development of new treatments as the largest private funder of Alzheimer’s research in the world. In 2008, the Association’s grants program awarded more than $26 million in research funding, the largest annual amount in the Association’s history of funding Alzheimer’s research. Unveiled last month, the portfolio includes funding to 131 researchers from 15 countries and 26 U.S. states. The grants were awarded to outstanding researchers whose proposals were ranked highest by peer reviewers in an extremely competitive field of 599 applications. These 131 projects span the entire spectrum of vital issues in dementia science, including early detection; imaging and biomarkers; disease mechanisms; next-generation therapeutic targets; genetics and other risk factors; assistive technologies; novel approaches and best practices in care and support. The Association also provided funding for the Australian Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), and the ADNI Genotyping Project. All Alzheimer’s Association grant recipients must submit annual progress reports and a final report analyzing outcomes of their work.Recognizing the need to encourage new Alzheimer investigators from a variety of backgrounds, the Association has added two grant categories in fiscal year 2009 that are aimed at investigators from underrepresented groups who have earned their doctoral degrees within the last 10 years. Also new in 2009 is a grant category funding research into molecular imaging and nanotechnology for early detection of Alzheimer’s. For more information on the 2009 grants program visit: www.alz.org/2009grantsprogram.

Record-Breaking $26 Million in Grants

Changing the Future of Alzheimer’s

Emerging Voice of Alzheimer’sEarly-Onset Panel Discussion Sheds Light on Daily Struggles

Panel Discussion continued pg 6

THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!!

Fall Memory Walks Exceed Goals!!

Raise $253,797!!!

See pg 3 for details!

Download these great photos and more at

www.alz.org/wv

Another staff member and I had the opportunity this summer to attend the International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease, or ICAD as it is known. The Conference was held in Chicago this past July. Nearly 5,400 researchers from all over the world attended to discuss the latest findings on all aspects of Alzheimer’s.

We were so excited to hear from the world’s preeminent researchers on the vast array of research being done. Reports varied from new results of clinical trials, to new diagnostic tools, to medications, to care. In addition, our national office announced that ICAD will now become an annual event to keep pace with the rapidly changing

Alzheimer research field, with our next conference taking place in Vienna, Austria, in 2009.

We were also very proud to see banners and signage all over the city of Chicago promoting this important gathering. Several major buildings in town were lit with purple lights at night during the week of ICAD, including the historic Wrigley Building.

There were daily shuttle busses from each of the major hotels to ICAD. My fellow staff member and I were in awe at the brilliant minds and interesting conversations we overheard on the bus (YES, we were eavesdropping! We felt quite important and intellectual!) And then we heard it, the comment that brought us back to earth. One researcher in a seat a couple of rows behind us said, “Actually I can only spend about a quarter of my time on Alzheimer’s research. There is not enough funding for me to do Alzheimer’s research full time.”

That fact slammed us back to reality. The same summer the Centers for Disease Control announced Alzheimer’s had replaced diabetes as the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., the same summer Congress did NOTHING with the appropriations bill that would have increased Alzheimer’s research from $644 million to $662 million, still not giving us the one billion dollars in research funding that we have been requesting for at least 10 years.

It is interesting to note that French President Nicolas Sarkozy has pledged to make Alzheimer’s a top national health priority in France. I have not heard either of our current presidential candidates mention Alzheimer’s. By the time you read this, we will know who our new President will be, and we will be approaching a new year. I hope you will join with me in making a resolution to KEEP RAISING OUR VOICES. Greet the new President with a letter, an e-mail, a phone call as he takes office in January. A new year, a new day, a new leader can make a difference.

I recall former President Ronald Reagan’s closing remarks as he announced to the world that he had Alzheimer’s, “I now begin the journey that will lead me into the sunset of my life. I know that for America there will always be a bright dawn ahead.”

I hope that 2009 will hold a bright dawn for us all.

Happy Holidays!

Chapter News

From the Executive Director

Chad BroadwaterAndrew Brownfield

Christina Brumley, Esq.Dave Campbell

Amy Culler, RN, BSNCandace Jones

Debra McNeelySam Scott, Ph.D.Ann Stottlemeyer

Jerry WalkerGrace Wigal, JDB.K. Vaught, MD

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 Chapter2007-2008 Board of Directors

OfficersEdward C. Martin, Esq., President

Gaylene Miller, Vice PresidentBecky Deem, SecretaryBarry Dobson, Treasurer

Jane MarksExecutive Director

Susan Graves, CPA, MBAFinance & Technology

Director

Melissa Gandee, LSWProgram Director

Laurel KirkseyDevelopment

Director

Gabrielle CoreyPublic Affairs Coordinator

Julie HalvorsenSpecial Projects

Coordinator

Amy BoggsAdministrative

Coordinator

Ken StewartRegional Coordinator

Mid-Ohio Valley Region

Wendy HamiltonProgram Assistant

Mid-Ohio Valley Region

April LewisFamily Services

Coordinator

Melissa GarciaRegional Coordinator

Northern Region

Sherry Daniel Program Assistant Northern Region

2

Directors

Chapter Office1111 Lee St. East

Charleston, WV 25301

Mid-Ohio Valley Office1218 Market Street

Parkersburg, WV 261011.304.865.6775

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

1.304.599.1159

1.800.491.2717 www.alz.org/wv

Patron Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

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Memory Walk

Thank You Fall 2008 Memory Walk Sponsors!!!

Dr. Jugal Raval of Adult Neurology & Geriatric Medicine

Amedysis Hospice & Extend-A-Care Home HealthArnett & Foster, PLLC

Autumn Acres/Berkeley Springs Rehabilitation & Nursing

Bowers Mobility Sales & RepairBraley Care Homes

Cabell County Medical Society AllianceCabell Huntington Hospital

Colony Drug & Wellness CenterThe First State Bank

The First State Bank - Harvest ClubFrank E. Hanshaw, Sr. Geriatric Center

Golden Living Center - GlasgowHeartland of Beckley

Heartland of RiverviewHuntington Health & Rehabilitation Center

Huntington Federal Savings BankThe Inn at Marietta

JanCare Ambulance, Inc.

Jefferson Security BankKanawha Valley Senior Services, Inc.

Loyalton of HagerstownNGK Spark Plugs (USA), Inc.

Peoples BankPlateau Medical Center

Princeton Community HospitalRealCorp, Inc.

River’s Bend Health Care, PLLCSenior Friends at Raleigh General Hospital

Shuman, McCuskey & Slicer, PLLCSt. Mary’s Medical Center

State Farm Agents Dean Jeffries & Faye ZinnVaught Neurology

The Villages at GreystoneThe Welty Home, LC

WesBanco BankWhitesville State Bank

Williamstown BankWillowtree Manor

WVU Hospitals - East

2008 Fall Memory Walks HUGE Success!$253,797 Raised!

Genesis Health Care Toyota

AARP West VirginiaBrickStreet Insurance

Camden Clark Memorial HospitalCharleston Gardens

Eagle Pointe

Safety Caution Equipment Co.SunBridge HealthcareThe Printing Press, Ltd.

Waste Management of WV

Bayer CropScienceHighmark, Inc.

Integrated Geriatric CareMarietta Nursing & Rehabilitation

Martinsburg Civitan Club

Mountain State Blue Cross Blue ShieldThe Pilot Club of HuntingtonThe Pilot Club of the Greater

Kanawha ValleySelby General Hospital

AM 1600 WKKXThe Marietta Times

ComcastThe Dawg 93.7

Star 95.9

V100V96.9

WDHC 92.9WEPM 1340WICL 95.9

WJLSWLTF 97.5

WTAPWVNS CBS 59

Altenheim Resource & Referral CenterAppalachian Power

Bailey & Wyant, PLLCCole Chevrolet

Commercial Insurance ServicesCommunity Bank

Directional Drilling Contractors, LLCThe Estate & Elder Planning Center

Genesis Health & Rehab- McConnelsville Leonard Johnson Funeral Home, Inc.

Mack’s Oil, Inc. River Park Hospital

Simpson Dental AssociatesST Pipeline, Inc.

Walters Construction, Inc.Wyngate

Gold Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Media Sponsors

Premier Sponsors

Beckley/Oak Hill Memory Walk$31,202 Top Large Team: RGH Senior Friends Top Small Team: SunBridge Pine Lodge Top Individual: Drema Bonds

Bluefield/Princeton Memory Walk$12,987 Top Team: Jones/Saunders Team Top Individual: Lisa Saunders

Wheeling Memory Walk$12,290 Top Team: Wheeling Park HOPE Top Individual: Peggy Everly

Eastern Panhandle Memory Walk Martinsburg, WV$20,437 Top Team: Martinsburg Civitans Top Individual: Pete Casper

Mid-Ohio Valley Memory Walk Williamstown, WV $45,078 Top Team: The Inn at Marietta Top Individual: Peyton Hughes

Charleston Memory Walk$102,780 Top Team: Montgomery General Elderly Care Top Individual: Charlotte Burdette

Huntington Memory Walk $23,662 Top Team: Broadmore Assisted Living Top Individual: Jamie Nelson

Romney Memory Walk $5,361 Top Team: Stan’s Clan Top Individual: Margie Ruckman

Fall Memory Walk Results:

Development

Six out of 10 people die without a will. That’s right, 60 percent of all individuals who die in the United States allow the state in which they reside to determine how their assets will be distributed. Here are four reasons why you should prepare a will:

1. You choose the executor. It is up to the executor to manage your affairs, according to your instructions. Without a will, the state decides who gets all of your assets.

2. A will allows you to name a guardian for children in the event there are no living parents. A person of your choice, rather than a court-appointed guardian, will raise your children and manage their property until they reach maturity.

3. A will can ease the probate process and in some cases reduce taxes.

4. A will allows you to leave a legacy by making a bequest to the charity of your choice, according to your wishes. Without a will, no gifts from your estate will be distributed to charities that can benefit from your generosity, including the Alzheimer’s Association.

While you do not need a lawyer to draft a will in West Virginia, a consultation with an estate planning attorney is recommended. To request information about estate planning or making a bequest to the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter, contact Laurel Kirksey, Development Director, at 1.304.343.2717 or laurel.kirksey@alz.org.

Who Needs a Will Anyway?

Cocktails for a Cause!Reagan Birthday Bash

The VaultHale Street, Charleston

February 78pm until...

Toast to the original Alzheimer’s Champion and many others!President Reagan was born on February 6, 1911. Seventy-two years later, in 1983, he started a revolution, kicking off the first

ever awareness campaign for Alzheimer’s disease. Follow in “the Gipper’s” footsteps and become an Alzheimer’s

Champion.

You’re Invited!!Morgantown

April 18, 2009WVU Coliseum

North Central RegionalMay 2, 2009

Emily Drive, Clarksburg

Walk City: _______________________________________Name: __________________________________________Address: ________________________________________City/State/Zip: ____________________________________Phone: (H) ___________________ (W) _________________Email: __________________________________________

YES! Send Me A Team Packet for Memory Walk!

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Development

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Phunfest on the RiverMargaritaville was alive and well in the Mid-Ohio Valley at the Jimmy Buffet Phunfest on the River, August 9 in Vienna, WV. Two Hundred people attended the event at Dils Park sponsored by the Mountaineer Parrot Heads Club.

The Parrot Heads in Paradise Club consists of fans of musician Jimmy Buffett and organize in communities to raise money for local charities. Jimmy himself urges the Parrot Heads groups to support the Alzheimer’s Association as Jimmy’s father and uncle both had Alzheimer’s disease. This year’s Phunfest on the River included “Cheeseburgers in Paradise,” margaritas, music and dancing to beach music featuring all of Jimmy Buffet’s hits. Guests wore beach attire, Hawaiian lei’s and Parrot Head hats, as well as “Stop Alzheimer’s Now” stickers to support the cause. A big thank you to the Mountaineer Parrot Heads Club for partying with a purpose and for raising $5,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter.

Melissa Gandee, Program Director of the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter, Board President Ted Martin, and Kim Kaplan of the Mountaineer Parrot Heads Club presenting the check for $5,000.

Have you considered including the Alzheimer’s Association in your will or estate?

How will you be remembered? Ensure your legacy will live on to help others. Please consider including the Alzheimer’s Association in your will or when planning your estate. For more information about planned giving opportunities please call Laurel Kirksey at 1.304.343.2717 or email laurel.kirksey@alz.org.

Save the Date!Gabe Zide Golf Tournament Monday, June 9, 2009Parkersburg Country ClubRegistration 9 amShot gun start 10 am

To register your team or be a sponsor contact Wendy Hamilton at 1.800.491.2717 or wendy.hamilton@alz.org

Save the Date!Thanks for the Memories Luncheon

May 15, 2009 Charleston Marriott Town Center

Honoring 2009 Rockefeller Award Winners

Those over age 70½ who want to support the Alzheimer’s Association can now make a direct transfer from their IRA to the Association and receive tax benefits. Congress extended the IRA charitable rollover as part of its economic bailout legislation in early October. The rollover allows a direct transfer to the Association of up to $100,000 a year tax free in 2008 and 2009.Here’s how the new legislation helps save taxes:

A rollover gift from an IRA will not be included in taxable •income.A rollover contribution qualifies for the required annual •minimum distribution, which can result in a lower taxable income.

The IRA custodian must transfer funds directly from the IRA to the Alzheimer’s Association. If the IRA owner withdraws the funds and then contributes them to the Association, the withdrawal will be included in gross income. Please contact the IRA plan custodian or trustee before making a charitable withdrawal. Contact Laurel Kirksey at 1.304.343.2717 for more information.

IRA Charitable Rollover Benefits

depleted his retirement savings on his healthcare costs. He shares that he is quite lonely and relies on his dog Zoey for companionship.

Panelist John Gush’s wife Betty was diagnosed at age 55, and he feels lucky that his full-time job allows him the flexibility to take her to her physician appointments. Many caregivers who still work full time do not have this luxury. John and Betty now do everything together; they fix dinner together, eat together and go to bed at the same time.

Debbie Thrall is 56 years old and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease last year. She loved teaching and found great joy in the children she taught. One of her main concerns is for her son with Down syndrome who still lives at home. Debbie said she often struggles, only able to absorb so much leading to ideas getting jumbled up; even her husband doesn’t always understand the limits to her abilities.

Caregiver R.W. Williams noticed something amiss 12 years ago when his wife repeatedly asked, “When do we change to daylight savings time?” Judy was only 53 at the time. Currently, R.W. is worried about Judy wandering from the house when he is at work. Coincidentally, after numerous tests and visits to several major hospitals and clinics, Judy still has not been given a definitive diagnosis.

Susan Young described the difficulty her college-age daughter is having as she watches the changes in her father who is only in his mid 50’s. She shared a personal story about her husband who parked their car before a Marshall University football game and could not find their car after the game. While searching for the car Susan tried to stay

upbeat by making jokes that she was on Candid Camera to keep her husband from being too upset.

Dr. B. K. Vaught, a neurologist, put a human face on the struggle a physician faces when trying to rule out all other possibilities and having to finally use the words Alzheimer’s disease. He noted the emotional and social stigmas of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are an unfortunate factor of the diagnosis.

One member of the audience commented, “That could be me up there. They look like me, they could be my friends. This disease is not about old people, it can touch any of us at any time.”

To close the discussion, each member of the panel was asked to relay one last message to those in attendance. The courage of the six member panel was evident in their messages. Norm Smith stated that more services were needed in each community for those with early-onset Alzheimer’s. John Gush urged the audience to be more open to discussing it with their families. There is no reason to avoid or keep silent about Alzheimer’s. Susan Young shared her commitment to enjoy each moment and “not give up.” R. W. Williams vowed that he “will not be bitter, but give thanks everyday for the good times we have had.” Dr. Vaught asserted that anyone experiencing cognitive issues should see their doctor and contact the Alzheimer’s Association. And, Debbie Thrall summed it up with her philosophy – “You are given one day at a time. Live life to its fullest and have faith in God.”

Thank you to our six panelists for their wisdom and courage in sharing their story.

Awareness

6

Holiday Gift IdeasReminiscence Cards

Enjoy old memories and new conversations with a set of Reminiscence Cards. The set consists of twelve black and white photo cards featuring scenes from the 1940s and 1950s. On the reverse of each card is a series of questions designed to

stimulate memories and conversation. These cards are a simple way to enjoy time spent with your loved one. Price: $10

Sparking conversation, or even smiles in someone who can no longer communicate well can help to maintain social interactions as well as pass the time. The BAAG (Bag of Alzheimer’s Activities & Games) is a great way to elicit conversations and smiles from your loved one. It includes engaging activities that can be individualized to tap into the person’s interests and skills as well as be adult-appropriate.

Each BAAG also comes with a small manual explaining the importance of activities for the person with Alzheimer’s, basic instructions and information such as effective communication techniques and managing challenging behaviors. Price: Starting at $75.

The BAAG

Panel Discussion continued from pg 1

Bracelet $2

Grandma’s Cobwebs $20

with activity book

Car Magnet $3

People Science Pin $5 Baseball Cap $10

Forget-Me-Not Pin $15

The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter Store has a wide variety of educational books as well as awareness items that make great gifts for any occasion! To order the gifts listed above, shown below or for other gift ideas from the WV Chapter Store, call 1.800.491.2717 or visit www.alz.org/wv.

Workshops, continued page 14

Training & Education

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Since 2004 the Core Services Quality Evaluation Initiative (CSQEI) has been in place to collect data on the quality and effectiveness of core services provided by Alzheimer’s Association chapters nationwide. The purpose is to identify successful program practices and provide accountability to chapter and national leadership.We are pleased to announce, for the second year in a row, the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter is listed as one of the top five chapters in terms of excellent training and education programs. Survey questions included ratings on the presenter’s knowledge and presentation style, program content, the degree to which the program met its objectives and the degree to which the program increased knowledge and would be recommended to others. Congratulations to the staff at the West Virginia Chapter for providing excellent education and training for all those confronted with the challenge of Alzheimer’s disease. To schedule a professional training or one of a wide array of community presentations, call us at 1.800.491.2717.

WV Chapter in Top Five!!

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

Meets OHFLAC guidelines for 2 hour mandated •dementia trainingCertificate valid for 1 year•Work at your own pace•CEUs available•Only $15 + $5 for CEU credits •

Download the curriculum at www.alz.org/wv. For more information contact Melissa Gandee at 1.800.491.2717 or melissa.gandee@alz.org.

alzheimer’s association professional web based training

Alzheimer’s Care: Clearing the Confusion II enlightened, inspired, educated and entertained those who face Alzheimer’s whether as a professional caregiver, support group facilitator or family member. The education conference not only offered best care practices for an individual with Alzheimer’s, but also served to inspire and energize staff as well and crystallize the true face of the individual with Alzheimer’s – their emotions, frustrations, needs and inspiration.

A vast array of talent and wisdom was present to educate each of those in attendance on topics ranging from the rare form of dementia Creutzfeld-Jakob disease to safety issues, prevention, team building and preserving the emotional health of the long term care staff.

Keynote speaker, Karen Stobbe, made us laugh, cry and listen more effectively as we learned communication strategies and philosophies. Her out-of-the-box training style incorporated fun improvisation exercises to really get our minds moving in a new direction.

The annual education conference is the only comprehensive conference dedicated to Alzheimer’s disease and the caregiver. We would like to thank each of our sponsors Genesis HealthCare, Ed and Susan Maier, WV Health Care Association and CAMC as well as our many exhibitors for their generous support of this very important educational event.

Mark your calendars now for next year’s 2009 annual education conference to be held November 19 and 20. Watch for more details in upcoming issues of Caregiver.

2008 Education ConferenceCommunity WorkshopsFree & Open to the Public

December 4, 6:30 pmBasics of Alzheimer’s DiseaseSunbridge of Glenville Glenville, WVContact: Shannon Anderson,1.304.462.5718

December 11, 2 pmBasics of Alzheimer’s DiseaseDanview Center Fort Ashby, WVConact: Jennifer Haddix1.304.298.3602

January 26, 5:30 pm Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease Pendleton County Senior CenterContact: Lyra Volz1.304.358.2421 February 6, 6:00 pmBrain Health & WellnessBarboursville Community CenterBarboursville, WVContact: Gabrielle Corey,1.304.343.2717 Workshops, continued page 14

Many times family and friends have a difficult time visiting with an individual with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. We hear from family members that “there is no reason to visit, he doesn’t know who I am.” Or, “Grandma thinks I am my dad. She doesn’t realize I am her grandson.” Or “I hate seeing her like that.” Just as often we hear from caregivers and even those with Alzheimer’s that they feel very lonely. Those who used to visit no longer do so; social invitations diminish, and family gatherings become few.

Often much time has elapsed since family or friends have visited with the individual, and as a result the individual probably has experienced some changes associated with the progression of the disease. It is easy for us to forget that dementia affects the entire person and not just his or her memory alone. That is what makes Alzheimer’s such a difficult disease for everyone. It is difficult to see decline and accept what has happened to the person we have loved and respected for so many years. It may feel overwhelming when the person doesn’t recognize us, when they can no longer speak in sentences, or talk about past events, family and friends. However, a visit may be the very best gift you can give to both the individual with the disease and the caregiver. A few simple strategies can make your visit more pleasant for you and the person you are visiting.

One way to improve communication during a visit is to bring items from the past with you. Photo albums are great reminiscence tools. While recent memories may have faded for the individual, past memories are still vivid and clear. If you have photos from childhood, this may spark conversation, elicit fond memories and make for a wonderful visit. In fact, you might bring pictures from old magazines or newspapers. If you know the individual’s former interests use that as a trigger for a positive response. Take a fishing magazine for the former fisherman or a fashion magazine for the woman who loved clothing. Simply looking at the pictures and hearing your soothing conversation can be entertaining and create a positive experience.

Occasionally, the individual may appear agitated with you while you are visiting. Visitors must realize that the person with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease is experiencing a lot of changes not only with thoughts, but with emotions as well. He recognizes that he is losing control of his life. He often is living in a world of “unknowns,” which adds to his anxiety when visited by people he knows he should know but cannot quite place. This sadness can take over the emotions of the individual as well as the family members and lessen our ability to think clearly and make the best of the situation. In other words, it can make it difficult for us to respond appropriately. As family, we want nothing more than to say to Mom, “Don’t you know me?” when she looks at us with no recognition. What is more important is that mom has a positive experience, whether she knows who you are or not.

Do not ask the person if she remembers you. Of course she may not remember you, she has Alzheimer’s! By saying this, you are constantly reminding her of the deficits she has. It is key to be supportive, to show love when visiting, to be positive, and above all else, to realize she does know you are an individual who loves and cares about them.

Here are some additional tips to help improve your visit:

Introduce yourself and call the person by name before every interaction. •Do not say, “Mary, you remember me don’t you?” It is better to say, “Hi Mary, I am Susan, your neighbor.” This way Mary does not have to try to remember who you are. Maintain eye contact throughout the conversation to show you are •listening.Allow Mary time to respond to your questions. Studies show that the •individual with dementia or Alzheimer’s needs 90 seconds longer than you or I to process what is being said. Wait a bit before moving on to the next topic. Reduce the stimulation around you. Turn off the TV or radio. •Talk to her like an adult, don’t talk down to her or use “baby talk.”•Talk in short, easy to understand sentences. •Don’t ask questions. It is better to make statements. Instead of, “Are •you enjoying the pretty weather?” Say, “It is so nice this fall. The leaves are beautiful this year.”

Caregiving

8

Positive Attitude: The Key to Successful Visiting and Holiday Gift Giving

Alzheimer’s PrayerDear Lord,Please, grant my visitors tolerance for my confusion, forgiveness for my irrationality, and strength to walk with me into the mist of memory my world has become. Please help them take my hand and stay awhile even though I seem unaware of their presence.Help them know how their strength and loving care will drift softly into the days to come just when I need it most. Let them know when I don’t recognize them, that I will, I will… Keep their hearts free of sorrow for me for my sorrow, when it comes, only lasts a moment-then it’s gone.

Positive Visits, continued page 14

Caregiving

9

A recent study revealed the factors determining the burden of a caregiver is not in the severity of the dementia of their loved one, but instead on the caregivers’ feelings about themselves. Furthermore, the study discovered that the caregivers’ sense of captivity, the sense of feeling trapped as a caregiver and being unable to pursue personal interests, are the greatest factor on care burden. The study conducted by groups in Britain, as well as Australia, also found that those who had a lower sense of confidence in their ability to provide care contributed more to their burden. This study simply reinforces what the Alzheimer’s Association has known for a long time. That is why we provide our 24-hour toll-free Helpline, our support groups and our new Lunch & Learn programs. Each program

provides an opportunity to increase your knowledge as a caregiver and talk to others who understand what you are experiencing. Each may also provide practical strategies that can ease your caregiving burden. If your loved one has recently received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or dementia, call us. We can provide information and tools to expand your knowledge. Accept neighbors’ offer to stay with the person with dementia while you take time for yourself. Attend our free Lunch & Learns each month in our three offices to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, legal issues, caregiving strategies and how to cope. As a gift to yourself during this holiday season, read the Caregiver Bill of Rights below and give yourself the gift of taking care of you.

Study Reveals Factors of Burden on Dementia Caregivers

A Caregiver’s Bill of RightsWhile serving as a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s is rewarding, it is inevitable that stress occurs. Caregiving can be exhausting and brings with it a mental and physical drain. Often caregivers find themselves feeling angry, irritable and depressed. The caregiver may experience loss of sleep either from worry, or from the nighttime activity of the person they are caring for. More than 40 percent of the 10 million unpaid American caregivers rate the emotional stress of caregiving as high or very high. In addition, those who are caring for someone with dementia indicate that their own health is poor or just fair.

If you are a caregiver, please give yourself a gift this holiday season by paying attention to the Caregiver Bill of Rights. You are a wonderful gift to the individual for whom you are providing care. Take the time to take care of you, as you know they would want you to.

I have the right ...

... to take care of myself. This is not an act of selfishness. It will give me the ability to take better care of my relative.

... to seek help from others even though my relative may object. I recognize the limits of my own endurance and strength.

... to maintain facets of my own life that do not include the person I care for, just as I would if he or she were healthy. I know that I do everything that I reasonably can for this person, and I have the right to do some things just for myself.

... to get angry, be depressed, and express other difficult feelings occasionally.

... to reject any attempt by my relative (either conscious or unconscious) to manipulate me through either guilt, anger or depression.

... to receive consideration, affection, forgiveness and acceptance from my loved one, for what I do, for as long as I offer these qualities in return.

... to take pride in what I am accomplishing and to applaud the courage it has sometimes taken to meet the needs of my relative.

... To protect my individuality and my right to make a life for myself that will sustain me in the time when my relative no longer needs my full-time help.

... to expect and demand that as new strides are made in finding resources to aid physically and mentally impaired older persons in our country, similar strides will be made toward aiding and supporting caregivers.

Caregiver Lunch & LearnsThe Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter will present a series of free lunchtime workshops for caregivers about Alzheimer’s disease and how to cope with the various aspects of the disease. These workshops are held every month at each office at noon. Contact April Lewis for more information about a Lunch & Learn near you! 1.800.491.2717 or april.lewis@alz.org.

Upcoming Topics: Charleston Office Every Third WednesdayDec. 17 Creating an Alzheimer’s Safe Environment Jan. 21 Communications, Behaviors & Alzheimer’sFeb. 18 Caring for the CaregiverMar. 18 Legal & Financial Issues & Alzheimer’s

Mid-Ohio Valley OfficeEvery Third TuesdayDec. 16 Communications, Behaviors & Alzheimer’sJan. 20 Caring for the CaregiverFeb. 17 Legal & Financial Issues & Alzheimer’sMar. 17 Options for Care & How to Make Those Decisions

Morgantown OfficeEvery Third TuesdayDec. 16 Communications, Behaviors & Alzheimer’s Jan. 20 Caring for the CaregiverFeb. 17 Legal & Financial Issues & Alzheimer’sMar. 17 Options for Care & How to Make Those DecisionsDon’t forget your lunch!

Medicine & Science

Phase 2 Bapineuzumab Trial Presented at ICAD

The issue of driving and those with Alzheimer’s or dementia is always complicated. Recent research from the Institute of Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES), Ontario Ministries of Health and Transportation and Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center brings to light another important factor to consider.Patients with dementia who were on psychotropic medications such as antipsychotics (Ex.: Zyprexa, Risperdal, Seroquel), benzodiazepines (Ex.: Xanax, Klonopin, Valium), or antidepressants were at a significantly greater risk of a motor

vehicle collision.This study points out one more area of caution when families are making decisions about the person with Alzheimer’s continuing to drive. It should be the actual behavioral symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations or severe depression that occur, indicating a need for the drugs, that will signal continuing to drive may not be safe. However, this is not always the case. According to the study, the risk is increased by approximately 50 percent. Antipsychotic medications were associated with the highest risk of a collision, benzodiazepines were associated with a modestly greater risk and the risk with antidepressants was intermediate.It is important that those with dementia and their caregivers discuss this issue with their physician and make decisions based on the safety and the well being of the person with the disease.

Road Safety & Psychotropic Medications More Evidence That We Should MOVE

Results from a Phase II study of bapineuzumab antibody infusion (Elan, Wyeth) were presented July 29 at the Alzheimer’s Association 2008 International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease (ICAD) in Chicago.The researchers found that side effects were generally mild to moderate and short-lived. Bapineuzumab is one of the drugs called an

antibody, meant to clear the toxic beta amyloid from the brain. The Phase II results were mixed. While NO improvement was seen in those with the APOE 4 gene, there was some improvement in cognitive ability. However, in those WITHOUT the APOE 4 gene, improvement was seen on the Mini mental exam, the Cog score and other standard tests. We look forward to learning more as the Phase III trial goes forward. Through studies, we continue to learn more about how to perform Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials safely and effectively.

A paper published in the September 3rd issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), is the first randomized, controlled trial of physical activity (exercise) in older adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, to our knowledge.One hundred thirty-eight adults 50 years of age and older who reported memory problems but did not meet the criteria for dementia participated in a 24-week, home-based program of modest physical activity — half did the exercise program and half (the “control” group) did not. Participants in the exercise group had better scores on a series of cognitive tests (known as the ADAS-Cog) than those in the control group. While the cognitive improvement was not very large, it was statistically significant. It also persisted for 18 months — that is, 12 months beyond of the end of the exercise program.In this study, people age 50+ with self-reported memory problems who participated in a six-month physical activity program showed a modest improvement in cognition over the 18-month follow up period.In addition, a new study of male twins published in the September 2008 issue of Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association strongly suggests that doing a range of cognitively and socially engaging activities in midlife can reduce risk for or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s and dementia.The authors suggest that the new study “supports the ‘use it or lose it’ hypothesis in aging men.”Growing evidence shows that physical exercise does not have to be strenuous or even require a major time commitment. Walking, bicycling, gardening, tai chi, yoga and other activities of about 30 minutes daily get the body moving and the heart pumping. It is most effective when done regularly, and in combination with a brain-healthy diet, mental activity and social interaction.

Naltrexone Rumors Have No Scientific Support

10

Recently there has been discussion concerning low doses of a drug called Naltrexone and its effectiveness in treating Alzheimer’s.

Naltrexone was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the 1980s for the management of alcohol and drug addictions. Naltrexone is an “opioid receptor antagonist” that is believed to work by blocking receptors in the brain that contribute to the stimulation felt during alcohol and drug use. Some researchers have suggested that these receptors also influence attention and memory and are affected by the brain changes of Alzheimer’s.

We searched the holdings of National Library of Medicine (NLM, part of the National Institutes of Health and the world’s largest medical library). NLM’s PUBMED database shows just three articles describing clinical studies of naltrexone as a treatment for Alzheimer’s. All three articles were published in the 1980s. They conclude that naltrexone did not improve cognitive function in the small numbers of people with Alzheimer’s who participated in the clinical studies.

Naltrexone, continued page 14

2

Join us on April 7, 2009 at the state capital in Columbus, Ohio for our annual Memory Day! Ohio Memory Day is a full day of working together to visit each legislator and share the needs and issues of those facing the challenge of Alzheimer’s disease in the state of Ohio. We welcome advocates from all over the state of Ohio to come together to share their passion and experiences with local representatives to MOVE our cause forward. The West Virginia Chapter would like to particularly invite those who live in Athens, Noble, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan and Washington counties to participate in this inspiring and invigorating event.

If you are interested in joining us for Ohio Memory Day, please contact Ken Stewart at 1.800.491.2717 or ken.stewart@alz.org.

Public Policy

11

Save the Date!2009 Public Policy ForumMarch 23-25, 2009Omni Shoreham HotelWashington, D.C.

Be a VOICE! Join us in our nation’s capitol next year to tell your story and change the fu-ture of Alzheimer’s. For more information, call or email Gabrielle Corey at 1.800.491.2717 or gabrielle.corey@alz.org.

Each year the Public Policy Committee develops a list of key issues that will be our legislative focus. In addition, the committee will closely monitor developments and initiatives that may occur during the actual legislation initiatives that would impact those we serve.

In 2009 the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter will:

Monitor the results of legislative initiatives that focus on recommendations •from the Vision Shared Long-Term Care Task Force as well as the recommendations from the Road Map to Health and Campaign for a Healthy Future projects and work to integrate with ongoing programs and services that assist those we serveMonitor and assist in guiding changes or initiatives related to Adult Day •Care in West Virginia.Support initiatives to develop a career ladder and adequate compensation •for quality in-home care workers.Encourage the support of a continuum of alternatives for the care of those •with Alzheimer’s.Ensure that Alzheimer’s Respite Care funds are adequate and reflect the •growing needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s.

In addition the WV Chapter will be supporting the position of the national Alzheimer’s Association on the adoption of a uniform adult guardianship system allowing reciprocity among states.

As always after an election year, we will welcome and introduce ourselves and our issues to newly elected legislators as we seek to forge strong relationships with all government leaders.

Be a VOICE, sign up as an Alzheimer’s advocate! Contact Gabrielle Corey at 1.800.491.2717 or gabrielle.corey@alz.org for more information.

The Ohio Council, comprised of staff and volunteers from each of the seven Alzheimer’s Association chapters that serve the state of Ohio, has been working hard this year on organizing the state’s legislative priorities regarding Alzheimer’s funding and care for 2009. In light of major Ohio budget changes and the needs of those we serve, the Ohio Council will work to:

Maintain State Respite Line Item funding •Maintain Medicare access (Passport)•Secure mandated dementia care training requirements and higher •staffing requirements for healthcare facilities in Ohio

The Ohio Council will also be supporting the position of the national Alzheimer’s Association on the adoption of a uniform adult guardianship system. In addition, we will be working with the Ohio Attorney General’s office regarding training of law enforcement personnel and EMS in the state of Ohio for the Missing Adult Alert System (also known as Silver Alert) that went into effect in June of this year.

If you are interested in volunteering as an advocate with the Ohio Council of the Alzheimer’s Association, please contact Ken Stewart at 1.800.491.2717 or ken.stewart@alz.org.

WV Chapter Announces ‘09 Public Policy Platform Ohio Announces ‘09 Public Policy Platform

Mark Your Calendars for Ohio Memory Day

VOICE

Support Groups

Athens County, OhioSecond Tuesday, 5:30 pmAthens Community CenterJoan Stroh, 740.797.4561

Fourth Sunday, 2:00 pmCoolville United Methodist ChurchReverend Bell, 740.667.3351

Barbour County, WVFourth Wednesday, 6:00 pmBelington Senior Center, BelingtonMelissa Garcia, 304.599.1159

Berkeley County, WVThird Wednesday, 7:30 pmCity Hospital, 4th Floor, MartinsburgKathy Weaver, 304.264.8106

Last Tuesday, 6:00 pm Senior Life Services, Berkeley Heather Stauffer, 301.395.2953

Brooke County, WVSecond Thursday, 6:30 pmBrooke County Library, WellsburgVirginia Hudec, 304.737.0957

Cabell County, WVSecond Monday, 1:00pmThe Woodlands, HuntingtonLeala Zappia, 304.697.1620

Last Wednesday, 7:00pmUnderwood Senior Center, HuntingtonTerry Cunningham, 304.744.7634

Third Tuesday, 1:00 pmHeritage Center, HuntingtonRobin Cliff-Korne, 304.525.7622

Second Wednesday, 1:00 pmLewis Memorial Baptist ChurchTerry Cunningham, 304.744.7649 orRichard Sexton, 304.736.1500 ext. 101

Fayette County, WVThird Thursday, 2:00 pmHidden Valley, Oak HillDebbie Treadway, 304.465.1903

Third Tuesday, 4:30 pmMontgomery General Elderly CareTerri Jones, 304.442.7499

Greenbrier County, WVFourth Monday, 2:00 pm

Old Stone Presbyterian Church, LewisburgTerry Cunningham, 304.744.7634

Hampshire County, WVFirst Monday, 5:00 pmHampshire County Committee on Aging, RomneyMaria Stoker, 301.697.2326

Hancock County, WVThird Monday, 6:00 pmWeirton Geriatric Center, WeirtonMary Ann Boyd, 304.723.4300

Harrison County, WVSecond Tuesday, 6:00 pmHarrison County Senior Center, ClarksburgCarolyn Jones, 304.366.4750

Last Thursday, 2:00 pmSunbridge at SalemAlice Skinner, 304.782.3000

Kanawha County, WVFirst Wednesday, 11:30 amEarly-onset/spousesAlzheimer’s Association, CharlestonMelissa Gandee, 304.343.2717

Third Friday, 11:45 amCharleston Gardens, Lunch ProvidedFaith Hairston, 304.343.6600

First Thursday, 1:00 pmHansford Senior Center, St. AlbansNancy Cipoletti, 304.344.9243

Second Tuesday, 1:30 pmQuarry Manor, CharlestonAndi Nelson, 304.925.4663

Fourth Tuesday, 6:00 pmMarmet Center, MarmetDebbie Allman, 304.949.1580

Third Tuesday, 7:00 pmFirst Presbyterian ChurchEducation Bldg, Rm 301, CharlestonTerry Cunningham, 304.744.7634

Second Friday, 2:00 pmGolden Living Center, GlasgowBrandy Bowles, 304.595.1155

Third Thursday, 3:30 pmSunbridge Care & Rehabilitation of DunbarLisa Snyder, 304.744.4761

First Friday, 1:00 pmHeartland of CharlestonSomer Goff, 304.925.4771

Logan County, WVFirst Thursday, 6:30 pmThe First Presbyterian Church of LoganRhonda Richards or Rex Thompson, 304.752.8723

Marion County, WVFirst Tuesday, 6:00 pmFamily Services of Marion County, FairmontCarolyn Jones, 304.366.4750

Last Thursday, 2:00 pmJohn Manchin Senior Care Center, FairmontJudy Labdik, 304.363.2500

Marshall County, WVFourth Tuesday, 6:00 pmMarshall County Senior Center, MoundsvillePeggy Everly, 304.232.6730

Meigs County, OHEvery Friday, 1:15 pmMeigs County Senior Center, Pomeroy Kathy McDaniel, 740.992.2161

Mercer County, WVThird Tuesday, 5:30 pmPrinceton Health Care Center, PrincetonVickie Jessee, 304.487.3458

Monongalia County, WVFirst Wednesday, 7:00 pmAlzheimer’s Association, MorgantownNorthern Regional Office, 304.599.1159

Morgan County, OHThird Tuesday, 2:00 pmGenesis Rehab, McConnellsvilleLinda Tompkins, 740.962.3761

Ohio County, WVThird Tuesday, 6:00 pmMJ Viola Senior Center, WheelingPeggy Everly, 304.232.6730*Adult Day Care Provided

Preston County, WVThird Monday, 7:00 pmHeartland of Preston, KingwoodMelissa Groves, 304.329.3195

Putnam County, WVThird Thursday, 6:00 pmBroadmore Assisted Living, HurricaneSusan Stover, 304.757.4778

Third Thursday, 6:00 pmRegency Place, Scott DepotConnie Hill, 304.757.3104

Third Thursday, 6:00 pmSunBridge of PutnamNicole or Justin, 304.757.6805

Raleigh County, WVThird Thursday, 2:00 pmRaleigh County Commission on Aging, BeckleyTerri Tilley, 304.252.5606

Randolph County, WVFourth Wednesday, 6:30 pmColonial Place, ElkinsMelissa McGee, 304.636.8600

Tyler County, WVFirst Thursday, 10:00 am & 6:00 pm Sistersville Center, SistersvilleAmy Lynch or Melanie Dailey, 304.652.1032

Upshur County, WVLast Thursday, 2:00 pmSt. Joseph’s Hospital, BuckhannonDonna Lewis, 304.473.6808

Washington County, OHSecond Tuesday, 3:00 pmMarietta Center, MariettaBrenda Truex, 740.373.1867 Lois Sizemore, 740.374.8304

Second Saturday, 2:00 pmO’Neill Senior Center, MariettaLois Sizemore, 740.374.8304Brenda Truex, 740.373.1867

Wood County, WVFirst Wednesday, 1:00 pmEmmanuel Baptist Church, ParkersburgJoe Lantz, 304.422.9293

Fourth Thursday 6:00 pmAlzheimer’s Association, ParkersburgKen Stewart, 304.865.6775

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

The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter, gratefully acknowledges the donors whose honorary and memorial contributions to the Chapter were received from 8/31/2008 - 10/31/2008:

In Lieu of Flowers:Please consider

designating donations to the Alzheimer’s

Association, WV Chapter in lieu of flowers. All

contributions help support programs and services in our Chapter

service area.

N HONOR OF:WILMA BIRCHERMs. Teresa SmithEUNICE DANGERFIELDMr. Barry DangerfieldVIOLET DOWDYMr. & Mrs. Conley & Vivian WhiteFAMILY MEMBERS FROM LOGAN CENTERLogan Health Village Family CouncilVICIE FULTZMs. Donna SweeneyJOHN HUDKINSMs. Georg-Ann E. GreenMILDRED LOUISE KIRKMr. & Mrs. John & Paulette KirkMR. & MRS. CHUCK MADOREMs. Dorise R. RinaldiMIKE & JANET MAWHINNEYMr. & Mrs. Patrick & Annette ManLINDA MILLSMs. Melanie MillsHELEN PYLESFNB BankTEAM STURGILLMs. Olivia DavisJOHN TIMBERLAKEMs. Laurie ZorioJOHN YOUNGMs. Kimberly D. CovertMr. & Mrs. Kevin & Valerie NicholsMs. Nancy PfordresherMr. & Mrs. John & Janice ToddMr. & Mrs. Joe & Liz WillsMr. & Mrs. Aaron & Heather Workman

MEMORIAL:CATHERINE ALIFFMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Mary QuesenberryAUBREY ASBURYAEP Services CorporationMr. & Mrs. Joe LeeLower Elk River Ministry AssociationPAUL BOGGSMr. & Mrs. Bill & Harriet KoppPaul’s Auto SalesDELORES SMITH BOLEAMr. & Mrs. Richard & Diane BoleaPATRICIA BOSTICMr. & Mrs. William & Wilma BosticANNELIESE M. BURKSMs. Dorothy Sutton

PAUL BURNSFrankford CEOSCURTIS R. CARUTHERSMs. Marcia A. DuranMadison Coal & Supply Co.Mid-Atlantic Boiler & ChimneyISABEL CHRISTIANMs. Kathleen V. WelchROBERT H. CLARKSONCharleston AEP VREAANNABEL COMBSAmerican Legion Auxiliary Victory Unit 155HUBERT COOKATF EmployeesJACK COOKPlymouth Michigan Church of ChristRALPH RICHARD COWGILLR. Ruffner & Betty AlexanderMs. Tonya BairdMs. Sarah J. BrownMr. Jeffrey BubarMr. Bruce DotsonMr. & Mrs. Donald & Brenda DotsonElk River Exercise ClassMr. & Mrs. Leonard & Sarah Lou PetersMs. Charlotte A. PiersolMr. Dennis R. SmithMs. Lori WynesMs. Calah A. YoungROBERT CRAWFORDMs. Naomi KriegLARRY DALTONMs. Ina Jean BinghamMr. & Mrs. Charles & Martha MooreDUNCAN DAUGHERTYMs. Anne P. McColmELVA JANE DAWSONMr. & Mrs. Robert & Betty Jo GatherumMr. & Mrs. Will & Karen SmithRALPH DINKINSTHOMAS DOVEMr. & Mrs. Dexter & Judy KnightMr. & Mrs. Philip & Rose Ann FarleyMr. & Mrs. James & Lorna Weaver LESTER LEE DURHAMCarpenters Local Union 1207Mr. Charles D. DishmanMr. & Mrs. E. Neil & Regena KuhlBERTHA FOSTERMs. Peggy J. BarkerJOHN PAUL FRANKMrs. Lutishie FrankJOHN FROSTMr. & Mrs. Stanley & Suzanne BarkerTED GREUEYMalta United Methodist ChurchMs. W. Virgene RayRAYMOND GRIFFITHMr. & Mrs. Michael & Cheryl GriffithP.J. “BUD” HARLESSMs. Connie Harless

Ms. Amy HollinsVIOLET HARLESSMs. Priscilla F. HaningLEON & MARJORIE HARNESSDr. & Mrs. N.C. RatliffeIRMA HARRISLifecare Management ServicesJAMES HERRONThrasher Engineering, Inc.CREED C. “PETE” HESSMr. & Mrs. Ellis & Jacqueline BouryRICH HIGGINBOTHAMMs. Linda Dickenson ElliottJOHN HUDKINSMr. & Mrs. Brian & Rosemarie Davis Ms. Pauline C. DillsMs. Gerri DoodyMr. & Mrs. R.W. & Judy WilliamsCLARENCE O. “C.O.” HUGHES, JR.Judy & Lindsey JochetsMr. & Mrs. Donald & Yvette SlawterG. CAMERON HUNTERMr. & Mrs. Niles & Nancy MillerCARL & RUTH JARRELLMs. Robin JarrellZULEMA JAYNESMs. Patricia Ann LakeJOHN JEBBIAMs. Emily Foster JebbiaMs. Mary VelezMARIE JENKINSMs. Alice B. CopeFLORENCE JONESMs. Eileen LynchDr. Steven K. SidebottomHARRY JONESMr. & Mrs. Bryan & Kathryn TottenWilliams, Turner & Holmes, P.C.VERLIN JONESMs. Betty CollinsMrs. Virginia EngladMr. & Mrs. Darrell & Sharon JonesMs. Rhonda ShumateMs. Lora TackettCHARLES KINGMs. Naomi SniderMIIDAH LORANTMs. Marcia StickleyMARIAN MCQUADEMr. & Mrs. Clyde & Sue Anne AllbaughMr. & Mrs. Ellis & Linda DusenburyMr. & Mrs. Jim & Lynne EllisonMr. & Mrs. Michael & Glenna RichmondBETTY HUMPHRIES MESSERMs. Elizabeth GorrellCLIFFORD MESSER Mr. & Dr. Steven & Amy KeithDOROTHY MILLERWilkins TruckingTHOMAS BURKE MILLERMr. & Mrs. W. Burke BeroEljac Realty, Inc.

Mr. & Mrs. Norris & Doris KantorMr. & Mrs. R.W. & Sue MendenhallMs. Mary P. RileyMr. & Mrs. George & Darlene ThieroffMs. Bettie VdovjakMr. & Mrs. Don & Linda WagenheimMr. & Mrs. C. Robert & Jean WhitingVELMA MORTONMs. Esther TedderRUBY MULLINSMs. Lois SalmonsRUSSELL ESKER “JIM” NEALEast River Mountain Town BandELTON W. PATTONMr. & Mrs. Jesse & Naomi BaldwinMr. & Mrs. Kenneth & Lenore DickMs. Marsha L. GallagherMs. Velma B. LeggMr. John P. OwenMr. & Mrs. Jeff & June PriceMs. Lou Ann SimmonsUPS - Kanawha CenterWeight Watchers of WV, Inc.NADINE DYE PERKINSMr. & Mrs. Eugene & Pauline WhiteCHESTER PEYTONMs. Melanie MillsCHARLES POLINGParkersburg-Marietta Building & Construction Trades CouncilALDA BOSWELL RANDOLPHMr. & Mrs. Jeffrey & Dianna BranhamDOTTIE RHODESMs. Alice B. CopeJOHN F. SANTROCK, JR. McGraw-Hill High EducationFRED SHEPHERDMs. Susan BrittonANNA HELEN “NANCY” SHERRYSt. John’s United Methodist WomenANNA V. SMITHMr. John P. SmithHUNTER P. SMITH, SR.Mr. & Mrs. Steve & Kathy MossVIRGINIA STARRMr. & Mrs. Jerry & Mary Kay AngeloMs. Angela M. BattistaMr. Ellsworth Brown, Jr.Mr. & Mrs. Milosh & Sophie DivichMr. & Mrs. Hugh & Phyllis ManlyYVONNE F. STUMPMs. Margaret “Pat” P. CareyMr. & Mrs. Harold & Evelyn MooreMr. David SpenceJan StropeMolly ThompsonMs. Uala Puckett WellsHOLLIS C. SUMMERSMr. Charles W. Kaufman, Jr. Ms. Mary K. LairdJUNE TABORMs. Helen D. Jackson

RUTH TANNERMs. Kathy IrvineMARY LEA WHITEGlendale Temple No. 26 Pythian Sisters of WVDOROTHY WHITTMr. James B. Englert, Jr.Ms. Virginia C. SnufferMs. Lois A. VaughtCHARLES WILLIAMS Mr. & Mrs. John & Terry WhiteHARRY S. “BOB” WILLIAMSMr. & Mrs. Thomas & Barbara ShrinerREV. CARL “TOMMY” WINGOMs. Tammi WoodrumBERNARD YOHOWetzel County Farm BureauJOHN YOUNGMs. Louise JenkinsWV Coal AssociationHASSAN ARDESTANI ZAVAREEIMs. Leslie AngelMr. & Mrs. James & Jean CaprioMr. Barbour ChildressMr. & Mrs. Robert & Joann DaleyMr. John P. DavidMr. & Mrs. Sam & Yvonne FarleyMs. Rita RayMr. & Mrs. James & Kathryn StoneDr. Annette M. Zavareei

Tributes

13

The scientific community’s “gold standard” for showing the effectiveness of a drug is a successful Phase III clinical study whose results are replicated in additional studies. A key resource for determining which studies are under way is ClinicalTrials.gov, a Web site of the National Institutes of Health. No studies at any stage of investigation (Phase I, II or III) are under way exploring naltrexone as a treatment for Alzheimer’s.

Given the absence of a body of scientific evidence supporting naltrexone as a treatment for Alzheimer’s, the Alzheimer’s Association does not recommend its use.

Make sure you approach the individual from the front and on her •level. If she is seated, then kneel in front of her before beginning a conversation.Use touch to let her know you care. A pat on the hand can speak a •thousand words!

Attitude is key when visiting with an individual with Alzheimer’s. Your attitude prior to and during the visit may help determine the success and/or failure of your visit! Those with Alzheimer’s are very intuitive. They will sense your mood. If you are stressed, angry or rushed, they may become agitated. Also, be prepared for the unexpected. Be flexible. We all have good days and bad days and so do those with Alzheimer’s. If the individual is having a bad day, simply leave and try again another time. If it’s a good day, simply live in that moment, and create a little joy.

Plan on a short visit. All day visits are not necessary. This may only tire the person with whom you are visiting. If you visit for short intervals you are more likely to have a successful interaction. And remember, try bringing a favorite food. Food can be a great communication tool! (Check first to make sure the individual has no conditions or allergies that would create a problem.)

Never say “goodbye” at the end of a visit. Perhaps you can say, “Have fun!” or “I love you.” It is better not to draw attention to the fact that you are leaving.

It is not only good to visit the person with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, but we must also keep in mind that the family or caregiver may enjoy it as well. Caregivers need to know they are not alone. A caregiver may benefit from the stimulation a visitor brings, and it may give the caregiver time to rest while you are visiting with the person with Alzheimer’s.

With the holidays fast approaching you may want to take a gift along as you visit.

Suggestions for gifts for the person with Alzheimer’s: Music: Take a tape or CD of favorite music. Or sing with the individual •

and match the music to their interest. They won’t care if you don’t have a great voice, and the songs may trigger happy thoughts and memories.Books: Make a homemade book of •pictures of the family or interests of the individual you are visiting. If the individual loves animals, make a book of animal photos. Safe Return: Enroll the individual in •Safe Return, a national program to assist in the safe and timely return of those who wanderHugs, Hugs, Hugs: People with Alzheimer’s especially need physical •love, touching and tendernessNonmaterial Gifts: Listening, affection, laughter, notes of love or •appreciation, compliments, favors, solitude or a cheerful disposition Soft items such as slipper socks, a soft sweater, shawl or lap-robe•Large piece puzzles•Materials to sort or simple crafts•Hand or body lotion•

Suggestions for gifts for the Caregiver:Offer to visit on a specific day, so they can leave for a bit•A gift certificate for a massage or manicure along with your offer to stay •with the individual with Alzheimer’sBring him dinner or some frozen meals to be reheated•A subscription to a magazine•CD’s of favorite music•A surprise note or phone call just to say “Hi”•

Whether you are preparing for a visit or deciding what gift to buy this holiday season, please remember to cherish those unique and special moments that occur when you least expect them. The person with Alzheimer’s is a very special human being who still has strong feelings and emotions and can share joy with you.

Some information for this article was gathered from the Greater Richmond Chapter Newsletter.

Miscellaneous

14

Positive Visits, continued from page 8

Naltrexone, continued from page 10

Name: ______________________________________________________________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

Miscellaneous

Beautiful Spaces!Welcoming Places!• Attractive & spacious living spaces• Individualized care• Personally tailored activities• On-site rehabilitation programs• Short term stays available• Join Their Journey™ – Unique family & staff Alzheimer’s partnership

An Emeritus Assisted Living &Alzheimer’s Care Community

304.343.6600800 Association Dr., Charleston, WV 25311

Northgate Business Park www.emeritus.com �

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

days can’t be memorable.

Homestead Specialized Alzheimer’s

and Dementia CareOur specially trained staff is

focused on creating individualized plans and routines that build on

each resident’s strengths.

Genesis CareLine: 800-584-0507www.genesishcc.com

EQUAL HOUSING O P P O R T U N I T Y

Assisted LivingMoving into one of our Assisted Living Communities is like being in a small town. You stay close to

friends and family.

Genesis CareLine: 800-584-0507www.genesishcc.com

EQUAL HOUSING O P P O R T U N I T Y

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

Quarry ManorCharleston, WV

Regency PlaceScott Depot, WV

� e SeasonsLewisburg, WV

� e Summit at Hidden ValleyOak Hill, WV

Please take note of our sponsors. Their continued support allows us to offer this publication free of charge to our readers. If you would like to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Laurel Kirksey, Development Director, at 1.800.491.2717 or laurel.kirksey@alz.org.

Donate ONLINE! at www.alz.org/wv

15

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

Your support goes a long way to help the Alzheimer’s Association, West Virginia Chapter provide the necessary free programs and services to families in our Chapter area facing Alzheimer’s disease. We truly appreciate your support of our important cause.

MOVEThe Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter’s 24-Hour Toll-Free Education and Support Helpline and Care Consultation programs are supported by the United Ways of Central West Virginia and Monongalia and Preston Counties. The Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter’s Respite Care programs in Monongalia, Preston and Harrison counties are supported by the United Ways of Monongalia and Preston and Harrison counties. Thank you for your generous support of the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter through United Way campaigns.

For more information on how you can support the Alzheimer’s Association, WV Chapter through workplace giving campaigns, contact Laurel Kirksey at laurel.kirksey@alz.org or 1.800.491.2717.

West Virginia Chapter

1111 Lee Street, East

Charleston, WV 25301

www.alz.org/wv

1.800.491.2717

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

Non-Profit OrgU.S. Postage

PAIDPermit 2518

Chas. WV 25301

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...we can help, now. Our expert sta� can o�er support, links to resources, information and an understanding ear. Please call our 24-hour Education & Support Helpline or visit us on the web at www.alz.org/wv.

We can help: 24-Hour Education & Support Helpline 1.800.491.2717Care Consultations, in person or by phoneInformation & Resource CenterSupport GroupsFree Educational MaterialCaregiver WorkshopsProfessional TrainingComprehensive Website www.alz.org/wv

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Every 71 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer’s, a disease so devastating it can steal the most precious moments from you and your family, and could cripple the Medicare system in the near future.

Now is the time to

To learn more, go to alz.org.

When Alzheimer’s enters your life...

helpline 1.800.491.2717