Avoid Stress and Overstimulation Over the Holidays

The holidays are a time to be joyful! For many, they mean seeing family and friends that have traveled near and far to spend this special time together. There’s always something delicious cooking in the kitchen, large groups of people gather around the fire to reminisce about fond memories, and the laughter often doesn’t die down until late into the night.


But, for those living with Alzheimer’s, the holidays can mean increased feelings of agitation, a great deal of unease – and even prompt wandering. Here are a few ways you can quell the feelings of stress in your loved one this year:

1. Stay Well Rested: "Sundowning" is a state of increased agitation occurring late in the day through the evening hours. Research now indicates that being overly tired may have more to do with “sundowning” than previously thought. If a nap is out of the question for your loved one, try to encourage some quiet time away from the TV and other sources of stimulation.

2. Plan Wisely: Those with Alzheimer’s are generally better able to tolerate outings and events earlier in the day. Manage expectations with your family and friends so that they know when to expect you and what to expect. Try coordinating a quiet breakfast or brunch in the morning rather than a busy dinner in the evening.

3. Calm in the Face of the Storm: If an episode begins to come on, try guiding your loved one away from that particular source of stimulation. A quiet space where they can feel comfortable may be all they need when the world around them seems so loud.

Alzheimer’s Disease is unpredictable, but if you can prepare for unexpected episodes and look for the sources of stimulation that might trigger one, we can focus on what the holidays were meant to be about. Enjoying and relishing the company of those we love.

3 Ways to Help this December

November is National Family Caregivers Month

All caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s – both women and men – face a devastating toll.

Alzheimer’s disease affects men and women equally and knows no social or economic boundaries. Today, over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 200,000 under the age of 65.

It is estimated that there are 15.5 million caregivers caring for someone with Alzheimer’s across the nation. Caregiving is a costly job – financially, physically and emotionally. Alzheimer’s disease costs American society approximately $214 billion annually - taking into account everything from lost employee productivity to increased healthcare costs. More than 3 in 5 unpaid Alzheimer’s caregivers are women; among women caregivers who also work, 20 percent have gone from working full-time to part-time because of their caregiving duties.

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease grows, so will the needs of caregivers. Due to the physical and emotional toll of caregiving, Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers had $9.3 billion in additional healthcare costs of their own in 2013. Moreover, unlike most diseases, the financial and emotional impact of Alzheimer’s on the caregiver is nearly equal to that of the affected person, thus increasing its overall societal threat. 

To honor the many caregivers who may or may not receive thanks for their hard work, dedication, and love, November is National Family Caregivers Month.

During National Family Caregivers Month, contact your legislator and share what caregiving means to you. Urge them to place Alzheimer’s disease at the top of their health public policy agenda by advocating for adequate funding for care and support. For more on what you can do as an advocate, visit the Ohio Council of the Alzheimer's Association.

November's 3 Ways to Help!

Check out November's 3 Ways to Help This Month!

1. Paint the Night Purple Gala.
2. Take a Walk with Marion.
3. Purple it Up!

Paint the Night Purple for Alzheimer’s Awareness!

Join us on November 7th for the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association’s Annual Gala as we Paint the Night Purple to raise funds for the fight against Alzheimer’s.

Check out what this year’s Gala has to offer:

• Cocktails, hor d’oeuvres and a lavish dinner buffet
• Dessert buffet and coffee bar
• Special 2014 Ralph and Billie Hazelbaker Award Recipient Joanie Johnson
• Live Auction Trips and Glitz:
• Hilton Head Sea Pine vacation home
• Summer fun at Deer Valley Resort in Park City, Utah
• Experience Cape Cod
• Gorgeous 14ct white gold necklace with a 10ct oval shaped smokey quarts rimmed in diamonds.
• Treasure-filled Silent Auction

Purple is the new black this year, so wear your favorite Alzheimer's gear! Call to reserve your tickets today at (614) 457-6003! Click for more information, or contact Suzy Rudolph at srudolph@alz.org.

It’s the Simple Things: 10 Family Activities for Those Facing Alzheimer’s

There are many ways to engage and socialize with loved ones battling Alzheimer’s and dementia. Check out 10 fun and simple activities that could have a great impact on the health and happiness of your loved ones.

1. Read aloud. Read a favorite book aloud and talk about parts you like.
2. String beads. Crafting can be very relaxing, especially with just a few steps in the process.
3. Bake cookies. From mixing ingredients and eating the dough to waiting for the delicious result, this can be a great family bonding time.
4. Scrapbook. Going through old and recent photographs is a really great way to bring up conversation and use a little creativity by collaging.
5. Plant seeds for indoor or outdoor plants. Planting seeds in small pots to be placed around the house, or at the doorstep is an easy activity that shows progress week after week.
6. Fold laundry. This is a simple task that can be a great sense of accomplishment during the day.
7. Play with a pup. Animals are a great way to bring some fun cuddles into the day. Having a friend visit with their adorable dog is a great way to share in experiences.
8. Have a picnic. You don’t have to go far, just take lunch outside. Enjoy the beautiful day with a little music and split a sandwich.
9. Write a letter to a friend or family member. This can be a great way to talk about memories and future plans your loved one has with friends and family members.
10. Feed the ducks. Take any chance to get out of the house and see something new or familiar. A loaf of bread and an afternoon at the park is a relaxing way to spend the afternoon.

For more information about Alzheimer’s and dementia and how you can help empower those living with these disorders, please visit us here.

Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer's - This Saturday!

Walk to End Alzheimer’s (or run a 5K) this Saturday, September 20 at Huntington Park! Join us and Columbus in the fight against this devastating disease by registering yourself, family and friends to walk or join in the Ohio Health 5K.

If you’re uncertain about walking or running, you can still get involved by volunteering at the walk! Volunteers are needed to help with set-up, registration, water stops, promise garden, the T-shirt tent and so much more. Visit our Volunteers Page for more information!

Event Information
Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Date: September 20, 2014
Location: Huntington Park 330 Huntington Park Lane, Columbus, OH 43215
Time of Events:

• 5K Run: Arrive at 7 AM; run begins 8 AM
• Ceremony: 9 AM
• Walk: Arrive at 8 AM; walk begins at 9:15 AM

A special thank-you to Barbasol and Pure Silk for sponsoring the
Walk to End Alzheimer's!

It Takes Just 1% to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s

Just 20 minutes of exercise a day can reduce the risk and slow the progression of developing Alzheimer’s - 1% of your day, that’s it! Listed below are the amazing benefits of light to moderate exercise like walking, bicycling, gardening, tai chi, or yoga everyday.

1.    Improve cardiovascular health: Exercise lets more oxygen into the blood stream. Impaired blood flow is a critical affliction of deteriorating brain health.

2.    Help physical function:  Strengthen muscles and bones, enhance body confidence, feel a sense of accomplishment and improve coordination to reduce risk of falls and maintain independence longer.

3.    Promote cognition: Studies show that physical activity may improve memory, slow down mental decline and reduce brain cell loss.

4.    Restful sleep: Alzheimer’s upsets the “internal body clock” and makes it difficult for those with the disease to separate dreams from reality. Physical activity can help for a more restful sleep at night.

5.    Enhance social interaction: Opportunities to engage in exercise with social interaction is shown to reduce feelings of isolation and helps maintain brain vitality.

The Difference a Day Can Make

World Alzheimer’s Day is September 21. Alzheimer’s organizations across the globe combine efforts to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s and dementia. Ending Alzheimer’s starts with one voice – yours. Please take the day to acknowledge the struggle that more than 5 million Americans face. Read more about 5 ways you can honor World Alzheimer’s Day:

·      Wear that you care: Sell “Casual for a Cause” stickers for $5 to coworkers and dress down to help fund Alzheimer’s research and support services.

·      Feed the need: Get together with friends and family for “Dinner to Make a Difference” and ask them to donate what they would have spent on a night out to help aid those living with the debilitating disease.

·      Every moment counts: Every 67 seconds a person dies from Alzheimer’s. Mark a moment of silence in the workplace, church or at home.

·      Common bond: One of the most important ways to improve Alzheimer’s symptoms is social interaction. Be a part of the network by joining or starting a team for a Walk to End Alzheimer’s near you.

·      Lend a hand: Volunteer at an event or a caregiving facility and learn more about both the patients and caregivers facing Alzheimer’s everyday.

Any effort given is another day closer to ending Alzheimer’s. Share with us on Facebook what you plan on doing for World Alzheimer’s Day! Find out more about Alzheimer’s at ALZ.org today.

Support Circleville’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Join us this Saturday for Circleville’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, 5K Run to End Alzheimer’s and a Kids Fun Run! This is a great opportunity for families to enjoy a Saturday morning supporting those suffering with Alzheimer’s. Funds raised help further the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association. Register today!

Event Information
Circleville Walk to End Alzheimer's
Date: August 16, 2014
Location: Mary Virginia Crites Hannan Park Circleville, OH 43113
Route Length: 1.2 mile walk, 5K run

Save the Date!

Mark your calendars to join the Alzheimer’s Association on November 7th for a night full of food, fun and entertainment! Click here for more information.

Drive to End Alzheimer's

Test drive a new Ford vehicle and Jim Keim Ford and Ford Motor Company together will donate $20 to Central Ohio Alzheimer's Association, up to $6,000! Jeim Keim Ford will donate an additional $2,000 for the first 100 test drives. That's a total of $8,000 if we reach our goal of 300 test drives!

Alzheimer's Association Appoints Vince McGrail as Executive Director & CEO

Growing Awareness of Disease and Chapter’s Ability to Provide Support are Priorities for New Chapter Leader.

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Alzheimer’s Association of Central Ohio recently announced the appointment of Vince McGrail as Executive Director and CEO. McGrail will provide executive leadership for the Chapter’s staff, and serve as a partner with its Board of Directors to set, communicate and implement strategic goals for the Chapter, which will include increasing concern and awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease, enhancing care and support, growing revenue, and advancing advocacy. McGrail previously held the position of Sr. Director, Marketing Communications at The Ohio State University.

“We welcome Vince’s experience and leadership to the Chapter,” said the Association’s board president John Petro. “He’s a proven professional with more than 20 years of experience in marketing communications and fundraising strategy. His leadership and ability to think strategically and creatively will drive innovation and growth within the Chapter, and help the Chapter continue to serve more than 24,000 people living with Alzheimer’s in Central Ohio and their caregivers.”

McGrail joins the Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter after serving The Ohio State University for 17 years in multiple leadership roles in development and marketing communications with focus in strategic fundraising. McGrail led the coordination of strategy and execution of university communication plans to publicly launch the $2.5 billion But for Ohio State fundraising campaign. Among McGrail’s successes includes co-chairing marketing efforts for the Students First, Students Now initiative, raising $116 million for student support in a 30-month timeframe. In addition, McGrail led the growth of Annual Giving at Ohio State from $9.5 million in 2006 to $13 million in 2012.

“I am excited to be working with the board to increase services and support for those who suffer with Alzheimer’s in Central Ohio and to make a difference in our community, said McGrail. “I am thrilled to be working with a passionate and talented team and dedicated volunteers, working hard towards the day we end Alzheimer’s”.

The Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter offers a variety of family and clinical support, education, advocacy and resources on behalf of Alzheimer’s patients and their families living throughout the surrounding 14 counties. They work closely with both patients and caregivers to maintain the highest quality of life for everyone involved.

The first major fundraising event to take place under McGrail’s leadership is the 2014 Columbus Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, September 20th beginning at Huntington Park and hosted by the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association. Those who walk, both through fundraising and participating in the event, help to change the level of Alzheimer’s awareness in the Columbus community. Registration for the walk is free and can be done at Alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association The Alzheimer's Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. The Central Ohio Chapter was established in 1979 and provides a broad range of programs and services for individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Visit Alz.org.

Walk to End Alzheimer's

More than 15 million people are affected by Alzheimer’s in the United States. There is something you can do …

 

Walk with us to End Alzheimer’s. This event raises funds to help advance research and support those living with the disease as well as provide resources to caregivers. Participate in any of the 5 Walks to End Alzheimer’s taking place throughout Central Ohio. Together, we can walk Alzheimer’s out of town.

Saturday, August 9 – Perry County

act.alz.org/perrycountyohio

Saturday, August 16 – Circleville

act.alz.org/circlevilleohio

Saturday, September 20 - Columbus

act.alz.org/columbusohio

Saturday, October 11 – Chillicothe

act.alz.org/chillicotheohio

Sunday, October 26 - Delaware

act.alz.org/delawareohio

In November 2014 – Marion

act.alz.org/marionohio

Super Brain Power from Super Brain Food!

July is National Blueberry Month and your brain should be celebrating because studies have shown that the antioxidants and flavonoids in blueberries can help improve learning and memory function! So whether you’re playing brain games or getting ready for a Walk to End Alzheimer’s, power-up and keep your brain healthy with Oprah’s Blueberry Brain Boost Smoothie!

Blueberry Brain Boost Smoothie

Ingredients
• 1 cup fresh-pressed apple juice
• 1 fresh ripe fresh ripe banana
• 1 1/2 cups frozen blueberries
• 1/2 cup frozen raspberries
• 1/4 cup raw walnuts, preferably soaked
   and drained

Directions
Combine the apple juice and banana in a blender. Add the blueberries, raspberries, and walnuts. Blend until smooth. Servings: Serves 2 (makes about 2 1/2 cups)

Tips for Alzheimer's Caregivers

The emotional, physical and financial cost to a caregiver of an Alzheimer's patient is immeasurable. From the initial shock ... to the long-term care, nothing compares. And to the 15 million caregivers of Alzheimer’s patients across the United States, a little encouragement can go a long way.

Olivia Hoblitzelle found herself, as many do, face to face with a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's … her husband. She wrote 8 Inspiring Tips for Alzheimer’s Caregivers to help encourage those on this journey.

At the Alzheimer's Association, we're here to help. With caregiver centers, local caregiver support groups, education programs and a 24/7 hotline, the Alzheimer's Association can provide care and resources for those affected by this devastating disease. We are here for you.

Chicken Soup for the Soul Book Signing!

Join us for a special book signing at The Book Loft on June 26 from 6-8 PM!

The Greatest Football Game of the Year

It's the 5th Annual Columbus Blondes vs. Brunettes Flag Football game! Come cheer on the blondes and brunettes as they tackle Alzheimer's by raising funds and awareness ... put on by the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association Junior Committee!

Blondes vs Brunettes is a volunteer-driven family fun event that brings the passion and spirit of young community leaders together to support the Alzheimer’s Association.

Held Sunday, June 29th at the Columbus Commons, kickoff is 1:00 PM. The event is free, open to the public and will include:

• Food vendors
• Raffle
• DJ
• Half-time show

Though admission is free, donations are strongly encouraged to advance the work of the Alzheimer’s Association in research and supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

A BIG thank-you to sponsors: Pure Silk, E-cycle, Mac Murray, Peterson & Shuster LLP, Stanley Steamer and Matrix Media.

Come early to show your support June 29th as the two teams come together to fight for yards, glory, flags … and most of all, a cure.

Training for the Walk

So, you signed up for the Central Ohio Walk to End Alzheimer's, now what? We know that completing a 5k is no easy feat ... and whether you are an experienced runner - or an experienced couch potato - it's important to properly prepare for the 3.1 miles ahead. You have the choice to either run or walk, but if you are a go-getter and hoping to run in the event, perhaps you’ll consider earning a spot in the prestigious Champions Club.

To ensure that your 5K race is successful, The Central Ohio Alzheimer's Association has compiled a training guide for the Walk to End Alzheimer's. See our easy to follow guide below and you’ll be on your way to proper training preparation.

Week	Training Day 1	Training Day 2	Training Day 3
1	• Jog for 90 seconds  • Walk for 2 minutes • Alternate between the two for a total of 20 minutes	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
2	• Jog for 90 seconds  • Walk for 2 minutes • Alternate between the two for a total of 20 minutes	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
3	• Jog for 90 seconds • Walk for 90 seconds • Alternate between the two for a total of 20 minutes	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
4	• Jog for ¼ mile, or roughly 3 minutes • Walk for 90 seconds • Alternate between the two for a total of 20 minutes	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
5	• Jog for ½ mile, or for roughly 5 minutes • Walk for ¼ mile, or roughly 3 minutes • Jog for ½ mile, or for roughly 5 minutes • Walk for ¼ mile, or roughly 3 minutes • Jog for ½ mile, or for roughly 5 minutes	• Same as Day 1	• Warm Up • Jog for 2 miles in roughly 20 minutes without walking
6	• Jog ½ mile, or for roughly five minutes • Walk ¼ mile, or for roughly 3 minutes • Jog ¾ mile, or for roughly eight minutes • Walk ¼ mile, or for roughly 3 minutes • Jog ½ mile, or for roughly five minutes	• Jog 1 mile, or for roughly 10 minutes • Walk ¼ mile, or for roughly 3 minutes • Jog 1 mile, or for roughly 10 minutes	• Jog 2 ¼ miles for roughly 22 minutes without walking
7	• Jog for 2.5 miles, or for roughly 25 minutes, without walking	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
8	• Jog for 2.75 miles, or for roughly 25 minutes, without walking	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1
9	• Jog for full 3 miles, or for roughly 30 minutes, without walking	• Same as Day 1	• Same as Day 1

16 Hours to Raise Funds and Awareness for Alzheimer’s

On The Longest Day, Alzheimer’s teams around the world come together to honor the strength, passion and endurance of caregivers and patients facing Alzheimer's.

The event is held on the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and gives participants a sense of what 24/7 caregivers experience each day. On June 21st, participants will take part in more than 16 consecutive hours of an activity of their choice and raise $100 per hour, for a total of $1600 over the course of the day. Participants show their compassion and support for those living with Alzheimer’s, along with their respect and admiration. More than 15 million caregivers provide committed, around-the-clock assistance to those suffering with the disease. They are most definitely a group worth honoring.

You can start by grabbing your friends and picking an activity you love! Activities can include bowling, boating, playing cards, walking, playing sports, baking, dancing, hiking, crafting, etc. Get more ideas here!




Funds raised from The Longest Day will be used by the Alzheimer’s Association for accelerated research across the globe, for providing care and support to those in need and for advocating the needs and rights of those facing Alzheimer’s.

To learn more about how you can get involved, call your local association at 614.457.6003 and ask for Matt.

Walking to End Alz

Each year, family, friends, caregivers and concerned community members in our 14 county service area come together and Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The event raises funds to help advance research and support those living with the disease. You can walk, make a difference and provide hope to millions affected by Alzheimer’s or related dementia. The following walks are taking place throughout Central Ohio:

Saturday, August 9 – Perry County

act.alz.org/perrycountyohio

Saturday, August 16 – Circleville

act.alz.org/circlevilleohio

Saturday, September 20 - Columbus

act.alz.org/columbusohio

Saturday, October 11 – Chillicothe

act.alz.org/chillicotheohio

Sunday, October 26 - Delaware

act.alz.org/delawareohio

In November 2014 – Marion

act.alz.org/marionohio

About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s

The Walk to End Alzheimer's is a community event for every age and is wheel chair, stroller and dog friendly! At each walk in Central Ohio you’ll find:

• 1-3 miles in length
• Entertainment
• Kids activities
• Powerful opening ceremony
• 5K* in some markets
• Information about local chapter programs and services
• Opportunities to become involved with the Association through advocacy, volunteering, fundraising or other awareness events
• Information about our Corporate Sponsors products and services

When you participate in Walk to End Alzheimer's, you help support:

• 24/7 Helpline 1-800-272-3900
• Education programs and services
• Care consultations with the Alzheimer's Association registered nurse, occupational therapist and social workers
• Caregiver support groups
• Early stage services
• Sparking Imaginations held at the Columbus Museum of Art
• Free educational literature and publications
• Information from ALZ.org/CentralOhio and KnowMoreAlz newsletter
• Employee wellness materials
• Medic Alert + Safe Return wandering response system
• Healthcare professional training
• Medical research
• Local and national advocacy

Columbus Area Professionals Join theFight Against Alzheimer’s

Four Central Ohio Professionals Appointed to the Association’s Board

The Alzheimer’s Association Central Ohio Chapter has announced the appointment of four new board members to serve on its board of directors. The board members will serve one term each, and will be tapped for their passion, expertise and ability to encourage others to get involved in making a difference to patients with Alzheimer’s and dementia in Central Ohio and the 14 regions served by the chapter, and their caregivers. The new board members include Sue Reninger of RMD Advertising, Scott McKim of Nationwide Bank, Chris Joos of Plante Moran and Scott Claunch of Cardinal Health. In addition to the board members, two team members have been added to the team’s staff of qualified healthcare professionals.

Sue Reninger is a Managing Partner of Client Brand Strategy at RMD Advertising. Reninger brings more than two decades of marketing expertise and a number of board appointments to her work on the Alzheimer’s board. “All of our professional success means nothing if we can not give to those in need. For me, Alzheimer’s is a personal mission. We may not be able to cure Alzheimer’s, but we can use our talents to raise awareness and the much needed funds for research and support services,” shares Reninger.

Scott McKim is an Associate Vice President & Lending Product Manager for Nationwide Bank. McKim’s purpose is rooted in assistance and caregiver support. “My purpose is to provide assistance and relief to the caregivers who are ultimately impacted by Alzheimer’s, so they may better cope with the terrible impact of this disease and what it does to their friend or family member,” offers McKim. 

Chris Joos, a CPA Partner at Plante Moran in Columbus, specializes in the Healthcare sector. “I want to use my 25 years of experience in the Senior Care Industry to help further the goals and mission of the Alzheimer’s Association in serving my community’s families impacted by a dementia disease,” shares Joos.

Finally, Scott Claunch, RPh, BCNP, is a Vice President of Nuclear Pharmacy Services at Cardinal Health. “In my work everything you do has a real, meaningful impact on a human life. That’s what I want to do for everyone connected to Alzheimer’s, I want to make a meaningful difference in their lives,” offers Claunch.

To learn more about becoming engaged in the work of the Alzheimer’s Association, please contact interim executive director, Joanie Johnson at jjohnson1@alz.org or call
614-457-6003.

5 Foods Your Brain Is Craving

We are always told to develop wiser eating habits in order to keep our bodies healthy, but how often do you think about keeping your brain healthy? What you feed your body can affect the health of your brain. These 5 foods are filled with nutrients to keep your brain healthy, which can help prevent Alzheimer’s and increase cognitive function.

1.  Blueberries

Blueberries have been linked to reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and are one of the most powerful anti-stress foods you can eat, which is associated with brain health.

2.  Nuts and Seeds

These are a good source of vitamin E, which has been found help prevent cognitive decline. Nuts also contain high mounts of antioxidants and are great for boosting your energy!

 3.  Whole Grains

 

Keeping your heart healthy keeps your brain healthy. Since your brain uses 20 percent of circulating blood, consume whole grain foods that can reduce the risk of heart disease.

4.  Fish

Omega-3s and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have been linked to healthier brain function, and fish are full of both. In fact, low DHA levels in the brain have been linked to a greater risk of developing memory loss, Alzheimer’s or other dementia.

 

5.  Tomatoes

Lycopene, an antioxidant abundantly found in tomatoes, acts to protect your body against harmful free radicals that can damage you brain cells, potentially leading to Alzheimer’s.