Association adapts and innovates as New Mexicans instructed to stay home

Albuquerque, NM – April 2nd, 2020 –  Even in these challenging times, the Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter is continuing their mission. Their staff is working remotely but available via phone, email and online.  In an effort to adapt to the current COVID-19 crisis, they are now offering many free resources electronically so that New Mexicans can access from the safety of their own homes.

The latest online webinar is designed specifically for family caregivers of loved ones with dementia during this crisis of COVID-19:

“COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s: What Caregivers Need to Know” is a free webinar from the Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter.  The presenter will be Adrian Rodriguez, MBA, Alzheimer's Association, Advisory Board Member.  It will be presented live online, Thursday, April 9th, 11am-12pm.

Description: Caring for someone living with Alzheimer's is stressful, and the COVID-19 crisis may bring unprecedented challenges. This presentation gives practical tips for providing Alzheimer's and dementia care at home during this time, as well as guidance for caregivers of individuals in assisted living.  Presented as part of the Emergency Preparedness for Caregivers Program.

To register by phone, call 505-266-4473 or 1-800-272-3900.  Or to register online, visit: https://www.communityresourcefinder.org/ResourceView/Index?id=1829643&profileDefinitionId=93  

“Transforming our chapter’s trainings and presentations into online webinars, accessible from the comfort and safety of people’s own homes, is a positive experience.  It’s an innovation we will certainly continue as we move forward,” says Tim Sheahan (Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter.)  “It is essential that we continue to engage and inform our constituents.  They need us.  It’s our goal to remain both helpful and relevant to them in these uncertain times.” 

About the presenter: Adrian Rodriguez is a home health and home care expert with over 13 years of experience. He specializes in Dementia and Alzheimer’s care, with a focus on caring for the caregiver. Adrian is well versed in the changes revolving the recent pandemic.  He is the Administrator for Crossroads In-Home Care and a member of the advisory board of the Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter.

“With this presentation, my hope is to provide useful information that will help caregivers provide a safe, healthy, and happy environment for their loved ones,” says Rodriguez. ”I have been studying constantly the best practices for caregivers to live and work with the changes during this pandemic. This unprecedented time calls for unprecedented strength from all of us. I hope to help caregivers find that strength.

In addition to the above presentation, the Alzheimer’s Association is offering many free online resources:

  • Our free 24/7 Helpline 1 (800) 272-3900 is available around the clock, 365 days a year. If you, a loved one or anyone you know needs to talk, do not hesitate to reach out. Our professional staff provides reliable information and support to all those who need assistance.
  • For local assistance, call us at (505) 266-4473. We are still taking your calls during our regular business hours, M-F 8:30am-4:30pm.
  • For Tips for Family Caregivers during COVID-19: Visit https://alz.org/help-support/caregiving/coronavirus-(covid-19)-tips-for-dementia-care.
  • For Guidelines for Professional long-term & community-based care providers during COVID-19.  Visit:  https://alz.org/professionals/professional-providers/coronavirus-covid-19-tips-for-dementia-caregivers
  • You can still participate in Alzheimer's Association education classes, many are available online. It's free and easy. Just log into:www.alz.org/educationMany support groups have adapted to virtual settings. For information on a support group, email Denise Parras at dnparras@alz.org.

No one should face Alzheimer’s alone, especially in a time like this. The Alzheimer’s Association is here for you.

Today, 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2050, the total number is expected to rise to nearly 14 million.  It is the 6th leading cause of death in the USA*.

Currently, there is no prevention, proven treatment or cure for Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s takes a devastating toll – not just on those with the disease, but on entire families.   In our own state, 43,000 New Mexicans over age 65 are living with Alzheimer’s disease and there are 108,000 unpaid dementia caregivers, many of whom are family members, contributing 123 million hours of care valued at $1.6 billion.

The Alzheimer's Association is the largest and most impactful nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's and dementia science in the world. Currently, the Association is investing over $167 million in more than 500 projects in 27 countries.

If you need help, call us. Our 24/7 Helpline is available any time, day or night for support or information at 1 (800) 272-3900. 

*Source for all statistics: The 2020 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report at www.alz.org/facts

About the Alzheimer’s Association®

Our mission: The Alzheimer's Association leads the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision: A world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Visit www.alz.org/newmexico or call 800.272.3900.

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