Summitt discusses Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis in new memoir

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/colleges/pat-summitt-discusses-her-battle-with-alzheimers-among-other-topics-in-new-memoir/2013/03/04/6ebb287c-84ff-11e2-a80b-3edc779b676f_story.html

Pat Summitt may have trouble remembering records, scores and statistics from her 38-year career coaching women’s basketball at the University of Tennessee, but she still recalls all of her former players. Summitt details her battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s in her new book, Sum It Up.
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Marilu Henner raises Alzheimer’s awareness on “The Apprentice”

http://www.nbc.com/the-apprentice/social/social-boardroom/

The Alzheimer’s Association is excited to cheer on Alzheimer’s Association Champion Marilu Henner in season six of NBC’s “All-Star Celebrity Apprentice” (airing Sundays at 9 p.m. EST). Henner selected the Alzheimer’s Association as her charity of choice for the televised competition; the winner receives $250,000 for their charity. Follow @AlzAssociation on Twitter to find out how you can help Henner win additional funds for the Alzheimer’s Association in the “All-Star Celebrity Apprentice” Social Boardroom.
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Marshalls supports Alzheimer’s Association efforts in fighting the disease

http://www.facebook.com/Marshalls

Through March 16, Marshalls customers across the United States will have the opportunity to add $1 at checkout in support of the Alzheimer’s Association and its efforts to advance Alzheimer’s-related care, support and research. The campaign adds to the support The TJX Companies, Inc., has shown in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease, including its recent multi-year, $1 million pledge.
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http://www.alz.org/dm/marshalls/030313-v2.html

Starting today through March 16th, Marshalls customers across the United States will be offered the opportunity to add a dollar to each purchase. That added dollar will be donated to the Alzheimer’s Association and its efforts to advance Alzheimer’s-related care, support and research – and taking a stand against this disease, nationwide.

This campaign is part of a much bigger pledge from The TJX Companies, Inc. on behalf of its 168,000 Associates and retail division including T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods and Sierra Trading Post in the United States; Winners, HomeSense, and Marshalls in Canada; and T.K. Maxx, and HomeSense in Europe. They have pledged $1 million to the Alzheimer’s Association in recognition of the massive impact the disease has worldwide.

Every single dollar donated through the campaign will go to towards supporting our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s. Thank you Marshalls and TJX Companies, Inc.!

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Music as Alzheimer’s therapy can hit the right notes

http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-music-art-therapy.asp?WT.mc_id=enews2013_02_27

Numerous studies have shown the therapeutic effects of music for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Not only has exercising the brain via music therapy been shown to increase cognitive function, it may also reduce agitation and improve behavioral issues.
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Music

Music can be powerful. Studies have shown music may reduce agitation and improve behavioral issues that are common in the middle-stages of the disease. Even in the late-stages of Alzheimer’s, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood. Music provides a way to connect, even after verbal communication has become difficult.

Use these tips when selecting music for a person with dementia:

• Identify music that’s familiar and enjoyable to the person. If possible, let the person choose the music.
• Choose a source of music that isn’t interrupted by commercials, which can cause confusion.  
• Use music to create the mood you want. For example, a tranquil piece of music can help create a calm environment, while a faster paced song from someone’s childhood may boost spirit and evoke happy memories.
• Encourage movement (clapping, dancing) to add to the enjoyment.
• Avoid sensory overload; eliminate competing noises by shutting windows and doors and by turning off the television. Make sure the volume of the music is not too loud.

Art

Art projects can create a sense of accomplishment and purpose. They can provide the person with dementia — as well as caregivers — an opportunity for self-expression.
When planning an art activity for someone with middle- to late-stage Alzheimer’s, keep these tips in mind:

• Keep the project on an adult level. Avoid anything that might be demeaning or seem child-like.
• Build conversation into the project. Provide encouragement, discuss what the person is creating or reminiscence.
• Help the person begin the activity. If the person is painting, you may need to start the brush movement. Most other projects should only require basic instruction and assistance.
• Use safe materials. Avoid toxic substances and sharp tools.
• Allow plenty of time, keeping in mind that the person doesn’t have to finish the project in one sitting.

Read more: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-music-art-therapy.asp?WT.mc_id=enews2013_02_27#ixzz2MPoc6g5k
Read more: http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-music-art-therapy.asp?WT.mc_id=enews2013_02_27#ixzz2MPoSXPN8

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