The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents a virtual education program on Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research

For centuries, we've known that the health of the brain and the body are connected. But now, science is able to provide insights into how to make lifestyle choices that may help you keep your brain and body healthy as you age. Join us to learn about research in the areas of diet and nutrition, exercise, cognitive activity and social engagement, and use hands-on tools to help you incorporate these recommendations into a plan for healthy aging.

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's and other dementias cause memory, thinking and behavior problems that interfere with daily living. Join us to learn how to recognize common signs of the disease; how to approach someone about memory concerns; the importance of early detection and benefits of a diagnosis; possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process, and Alzheimer's Association resources.

Additional Information

This program is presented virtually via Zoom. To register online, an email address is required. If you do not have an email address, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 to register.

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors. Behavior is a powerful form of communication and is one of the primary ways for people with dementia to communicate their needs and feelings as the ability to use language is lost. However, some behaviors can present real challenges for caregivers to manage. Join us to learn to decode behavioral messages, identify common behavior triggers, and learn strategies to help intervene with some of the most common behavioral challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Additional Information

This program is being presented virtually via Zoom. An email address is required to register. If you do not have an email address, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 to register.

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia. Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging. Join us to learn about the impact of Alzheimer's; the difference between Alzheimer's and dementia; stages and risk factors; current research and treatments available for some symptoms; and Alzheimer's Association resources.

Additional Information

This program is presented virtually via Zoom. To register online, an email address is required. If you do not have an email address, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 to register for the program.

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Effective Communication Strategies. Communication is more than just talking and listening – it’s also about sending and receiving messages through attitude, tone of voice, facial expressions and body language. As people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias progress in their journey and the ability to use words is lost, families need new ways to connect. Join us to explore how communication takes place when someone has Alzheimer’s, learn to decode the verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia, and identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage of the disease. The Effective Communication Strategies program of the Alzheimer’s Association was designed to provide practical information and resources to help dementia caregivers learn to decode verbal and behavioral messages from people with dementia.

Early-Stage

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents a 3-Part Series: Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers (Early-Stage)

In the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease, families face new questions as they adjust. What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made? What resources are available to help? This 3-part program provides practical answers to the questions that arise in the early stage. Hear from those directly affected and learn what you can do to cope with the changes that come with an early-stage diagnosis.

• August Series

Part 1: Tuesday, August 10, 2021 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Call Helpline to Register: (800) 272-3900

Part 2: Thursday, August 12, 2021 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Call Helpline to Register: (800) 272-3900

Part 3: Tuesday, August 17, 2021 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM Call Helpline to Register: (800) 272-3900

Additional Information

This program is presented virtually via Zoom. An email address is needed to register for this program online. If you do not have an email address, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900 to register.

Middle-Stage

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents a 3-Part Series: Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers (Middle-Stage)

In the middle stage of Alzheimer’s disease, those who were care partners now become hands-on caregivers. Join us for this 3-part series and hear caregivers and professionals discuss helpful strategies to provide safe, effective and comfortable care in the middle stage of Alzheimer’s.

• No upcoming programs at this time
• Check back for updates

Additional Information

This program is part one of a three-part series for caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer's or related dementia. This is a virtual / dial-in education program, and will be held through Zoom. Pre-registration is required. Meeting details will be emailed following registration. If you do not have a valid email address, or if you would like help registering, please contact our Helpline at 800-272-3900 or [email protected]

Late-Stage

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents a 2-Part Series: Living with Alzheimer’s: For Caregivers (Late-Stage)

In the late stage of Alzheimer’s disease, caregiving typically involves new ways of connecting and interacting with the person with the disease. In this 2-part series, you’ll hear from caregivers and professionals about resources, monitoring care and providing meaningful connection for the person with late-stage Alzheimer’s and their families.

• No upcoming programs at this time
• Check back for updates

Additional Information

This is a virtual education program, and will be held through Zoom (a dial-in option is available). Pre-registration is required. Meeting details will be emailed following registration. If you do not have a valid email address, or if you would like help registering, please contact our Helpline at 800-272-3900 or [email protected]. If you do not receive a confirmation email with the meeting details, please check your spam folder. If you cannot locate the information, please contact us at 800-272-3900 or [email protected]. 

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Living with Alzheimer’s: For Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s. When someone under 65 is diagnosed with Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, the first reaction is often shock or denial. This doesn’t happen to someone so young…does it? What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made for everyone? What about work? What resources are available to help? Join us for this program to get answers to the questions that arise for people concerned about Younger-Onset Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Hear from those directly affected and learn what you need to know, what you need to plan, and what you can do to ease the impact throughout the course of the disease.

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Legal and Financial Planning

The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease makes planning for the future more important than ever. Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease is an interactive two-part program where you will have a chance to learn about important legal and financial issues to consider, how to put plans in place, and how to access legal and financial resources near you. This program will cover information for families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia. Topics covered will include: Making legal plans that fit your needs; Legal documents you’ll need and what they mean for all of you; How to find legal and financial assistance; Practical strategies for making a long-term plan of care; Tax deductions and credits; and Government programs that can help pay for care.

Additional Information

This is a virtual education program, and will be held through Zoom (a dial-in option is available). Pre-registration is required. Meeting details will be emailed following registration. If you do not have a valid email address, or if you would like help registering, please contact our Helpline at 800-272-3900 or [email protected]. If you do not receive a confirmation email with the meeting details, please check your spam folder. If you cannot locate the information, please contact us at 800-272-3900 or [email protected]. This program will begin at 10 a.m. EST.

• Registration Opens: Sunday, January 1, 2017
• Deadline Date: Friday, May 21, 2021
• Type: Registration Preferred (Not Required)
• Event Fee: Free

Dementia Friends Michigan presents: Become a Dementia Friend! Register!

There are over 5 million people living with some form of dementia in the United States. Whether we are aware of it or not, we've all encountered a person with dementia - in our church, restaurant, workplace, bank, grocery store. A person with dementia could be a family member, neighbor, co-worker, customer, or friend. Dementia Friends Michigan strives to raise awareness of what it is like to live with dementia and offering practical steps we can all take to help those with dementia navigate their daily lives safely. 

WHAT DOES IT TAKE?

A Dementia Friend session lasts one hour. In a one-hour Dementia Friend session participants:

• Learn about dementia
• Understand what it is like to live with the disease
• Receive tips on communicating with people who have dementia
• Turn understanding into practical action 

More Upcoming Sessions:

• Thursday, May 27 at 10:30 AM

• Thursday, June 24 at 10:30 AM

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association presents: Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor Visits, Legal & Financial Planning.

When someone is showing signs of dementia, it’s time to talk. Often, conversations with family about changing behaviors can be challenging and uncomfortable. This program provides tips for breaking the ice with your family so you can address some of the most common issues that are difficult to discuss: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.

Additional Information

 If you do not have an email address, or are having other difficulties registering, please call the 24/7 Helpline at (800) 272-3900.

The Latest Updates in Alzheimer's Disease Research

Join the Alzheimer's Association, Michigan Chapter, to learn about the latest research regarding Alzheimer's and dementia and consider staying for the caregiver support group immediately to follow beginning at 7 p.m. EST.

Virtual Activities

In order to help individuals with dementia stay engaged while at home during the Covid-19 pandemic, the Alzheimer's Association has compiled a list of virtual activities that can be done at home. These include items such as virtual museum experiences, music, and animal web-cams. Please visit the event website to view which opportunities are available.

Alzheimer's Foundation of America Virtual Community Classes

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America is offering virtual online community classes during this time while Covid-19 limits in person meeting. Classes are offered covering a variety of topics including art, music, and topics for caregivers. Classes can be re-watched at a later date via Facebook or YouTube. Click here to be directed to the YouTube link.

Presentations will be on Facebook Live. Go to  www.facebook.com/AlzheimersFoundation

Visit https://alzfdn.org/event/ to view the schedule of upcoming events

Visit Event Website 

Virtual Memory Screening

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America is now offering free virtual memory screenings, which allow individuals to receive one-on-one, confidential memory screenings from a qualified health professional using their computer, smart phone or tablet.  This service, which is part of AFA’s National Memory Screening Program, began during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that people could still get screened from the safety and comfort of their homes.

Screenings are done by appointment every Monday and Wednesday from 10 am to 4 pm (ET) and every Friday from 10 am to 2 pm (ET).  Appointments can be scheduled by calling AFA at (866) 232-8484.

Visit Event Website 

Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregivers Support Group, Muskegon

Mercy Health Neurosciences and the Greater Michigan Alzheimer's Association present the Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregivers Support Group - Muskegon

Support for those caring for a loved one with dementia. Join for education and support while managing new responsibilities.

Family Caregiver Support Group

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in partnership with Spectrum Health presents a Virtual Family Caregiver Support Group.

Are you a family caregiver? Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed? Don't walk the caregiver path alone! Join the Virtual Family Caregiver Support Group led by Julie Alicki, LMSW, CADP.

To Register: Email or call (616) 222-7032

Access available by phone or computer. Group limited to 10 participants.

Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregivers Support Group, Grand Rapids

Mercy Health Neurosciences and the Greater Michigan Alzheimer's Association present the Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregivers Support Group - Grand Rapids. A monthly support group in collaboration with the Alzheimer's Association to share caregiving strategies and resources for those who care for others with dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, Frontotemporal degeneration, Vascular, Lewy Body, and Parkinson's dementia.

All Support Groups for the Alzheimer's Association are currently meeting virtually through June 2021. Please call (616) 685-4444 or (231) 672-8777 to have your name and email address added to the list for a zoom invite.

Email is sent in advance of the meeting with a link to the zoom meeting and people can connect via phone, iPad, tablet or computer.

Caregiver Support Group

Care Services of Evergreen Commons offers a caregiver support group primarily for caregivers who care for someone with dementia. All groups have limited capacity. Please register for support groups by contacting the Caregiver Support Coordinator at (616) 355-5153 or via email for more information.

Second & Fourth Tuesday of the Month

12:30 pm at The Day Center in the Conference Room. Visit Evergreen Commons - Facebook Page for more information.

Third Wednesday of the Month

2:00 pm at Fennville United Methodist Church

Second Thursday of the Month

10 am at Christ Memorial Church in Green Room (entrance D)

Fourth Tuesday of the Month

3:00 pm at Fellowship Church in Holland in the Gymnasium

Families & Friends of Aging Adults Support Group

Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services presents the Families & Friends of Aging Adults Support Group. The group is designed specifically for those who are caregivers to older adults, and provides an opportunity to gather information, gain answers and grow. What to expect:

• Information – Past topics have included financial planning, coping with hearing loss, Alzheimer’s, dementia, depression, managing stress and guilt, and much more.
• Ideas – Fresh thoughts about how to manage, where to call, how to get help, how to solve problems.
• Encouragement – Other caregivers understand your situation better than anyone else.
• Support – A positive atmosphere can help you overcome the challenging tasks involved in caring for loved ones.
• Confidentiality – Your personal and family concerns are not shared outside the group.
• Guest Speakers

New members are welcome to join at any time. This group is currently meeting online only on Zoom, for the safety of our participants and staff. Please call Cindy or Amy at (616) 281-6363 extension: 2450 to find out how you can join for free!

Alzheimer’s Association Aging with Down Syndrome

This group is for family members of individuals with Down syndrome to share concerns or questions about Alzheimer's disease and to seek support. Typically held at the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan on the fourth Monday of the month. Currently meeting via phone or Zoom. Call (248) 996-1066 or email [email protected] to register. Meeting access information provided upon registration.

Contact: Nate Clark

Phone: (616) 956-3488

Neuro Cognitive Caregivers Group

Mercy Health Hauenstein Neurosciences presents: The Neuro Cognitive Behaviors Caregiver support group. This group is open to those caregiving for people  with a variety of neurological conditions who, as part of the disease progression, may exhibit  challenging behaviors. This includes people with advanced Parkinson's disease, Huntington's  disease, frontotemporal degeneration, Alzheimer's disease or other non‐specified dementias.  Primary focus is peer support, strategies to help manage behaviors, education and training to  help understand, support and de‐escalate behaviors. Light refreshments will be served. 

Location
Mercy Health
245 Cherry Street SE
1st Floor Cherry Conference Room
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Convenient Free Parking at the 245 Cherry Street Lot

For information on this group or other Mercy Health Neuroscience Groups, call Neuro Patient Support at (616) 685-4444 or email us.

Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group: Spanish Language.

For Spanish-speaking caregivers of individuals who have Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Typically held at Exalta Health, 2060 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, on the second Tuesday of the month. Currently meeting via phone. Call (616) 459-7423 or email [email protected] for meeting details.

Contact: Ana Ramos
Phone: (616) 459-7423

Grupo de apoyo para cuidadores en Español del Alzheimer's Association.

Para cuidadores de personas que padecen de la enfermedad de Alzheimer o demencias relacionadas. Nos reunimos en el salón de multiuso de Exalta Health, 2060 Division Ave S, Grand Rapids, cada segundo Martes del mes. Debido al COVID-19, nos estamos reuniendo por teléfono. Comuníquese con Ana Ramos por teléfono al (616) 459-7423 o por correo electrónico [email protected] para obtener más detalles. 

Contacto: Ana Ramos 

Teléfono: (616) 459-7423