Learn how to double your donation to the Greater Illinois Chapter

The Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter is now partnering with Double the Donation to maximize contributions to the organization. Double the Donation helps nonprofits access matching gift programs. By typing in the name of a select company, employees can gain access to immediate matching gift eligibility, guidance, forms, and more. Using Double the Donation, users can also access a company’s volunteer grant program. Learn more about this great opportunity.

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Music and art can enrich the lives of people with Alzheimer’s disease

Music and art allow for self-expression and engagement, even after dementia has progressed. 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 and art can enrich the lives of people with Alzheimer’s disease. Both allow for self-expression and engagement, even after dementia has progressed.

• Music
• Art

Music

From our Blog
Caregivers Take Note – Music
as Therapy
Although music has been with us since the dawn of time, in the last few decades studies have found that music as a therapeutic tool can increase cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients … read more.

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.

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Art

Map out a plan to approach Alzheimer’s

Go to our free online tool,Alzheimer’s Navigator and complete a series of short surveys to receive a customized action plan.
Learn more:
Alzheimer’s Navigator

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 o

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Get the emotional support you need

A support group is a regularly scheduled in-person or virtual gathering of people with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia, family, friends or caregivers who interact around issues relating to dementia. Groups are facilitated by individuals who have received training from the Alzheimer’s Association.
We have over 80 support groups in the Greater Illinois Chapter area, at various times and locations. Check to see if there is a group close to you that fits your needs.

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Join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s® Experience

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Illinois residents to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than just a walk. It is an experience. It is a mission. It is a revolution. It is personal.

Everyone has their own reason to walk. Maybe you care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or maybe someone in your family has the disease…or maybe you have Alzheimer’s disease yourself. Whatever the reason, Walk to End Alzheimer’s is your opportunity to make a difference by participating in the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research programs.
When you participate in one of our 27 Walk events throughout Illinois you are taking a stand to fight this devastating disease and commit to helping us get closer to a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. More than a half million people are currently dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia in Illinois either as a caregiver or living with it themselves.
Alzheimer’s disease is a growing epidemic and is now the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death. As baby boomers age, the number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease will rapidly escalate, increasing well beyond today’s more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s.
Click here and start or join a team today or call 800.272.3900 for more information.

Join the Walk to End Alzheimer’s® Experience

The Alzheimer’s Association is inviting Illinois residents to unite in a movement to reclaim the future for millions by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Walk to End Alzheimer’s is more than just a walk. It is an experience. It is a mission. It is a revolution. It is personal.

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Broncos owner Bowlen steps down due to Alzheimer’s disease

Denver Broncos owner Pat Bowlen, 70, has given up control of the NFL team to focus on his battle with Alzheimer’s disease. His family issued a statement that said Bowlen has fought Alzheimer’s for the last few years but elected to keep his diagnosis private until now.

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