Resources for Individuals with Alzheimer's and Their Caregivers
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of untreatable, irreversible dementia. According to the Florida Department of Elder Affairs most people with the disease are age 65 or older, and half of the people over age 85 have Alzheimer's. Individuals may live two to 25 years from the time of onset until death. It can exact a heavy toll on caregivers as the disease worsens. The following organizations provide services that are beneficial to both caregivers and their loved ones.
Alzheimer's Project of Tallahassee
St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1700 North Meridian Rd.,
Phone: 386-2778
Website: http://www.alzheimersproject.org/
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm
APT coordinates trained volunteers that go to the homes of Alzheimer's patients and stay with them while their caregivers have some time outside of the home to run errands, attend doctor's appointments, connect with friends, exercise, or simply rest. Known as respite care, APT's services are free of charge. Donations are accepted.
- APT Support Groups for Caregivers
Meeting Time: First and Third Tuesday of every month, 11am–1pm; Second Monday of every month, 6–8pm This is an informal gathering where participants laugh, cry, share experiences, ideas and practical advice. The group leader has a Master's degree in counseling and psychology, and is specially trained to work with Alzheimer's patients and their families.
Respite care for the Alzheimer's patient is offered during Support Groups, free of charge, with 24-hour advanced notice. Lunch is also provided at no cost for all participants. - Project Life Saver
People at risk of wandering wear a personalized wristband that emits a tracking signal. APT staff goes to the home of the bracelet recipient to install the transmitter and make regular visits to maintain the equipment. When caregivers notify the Alzheimer's Project that the person is missing, a search and rescue team from Leon County Sheriff's Office responds immediately. Rescue times have been reduced from hours and days to minutes. There is no charge for this service.
Alzheimer Resource Center
Address: 1400 N. Bronough St.
Phone: 561-6869
Website: arc-tallahassee.org
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm
ARC provides the following services at no cost. Donations are accepted.
Counseling, education and training for caregivers, File of Life to help people keep their personal health information current and in one convenient place, information and referral, bi-monthly newsletter, Alzheimer's Disease Resource Book, Extra Special Persons (ESP) Program provides crisis assistance to residents of Tallahassee-Leon County who may become lost due, workshops and seminars, and advocacy.
- Family Support Group
Meeting time: First Wednesday, 6:30pm–8pm; Second Tuesday, 1:30–3pm
This is a loosely structured group designed to provide support and sharing among its members. The group is facilitated by a licensed social worker with education and training in Alzheimer's disease. Respite care for the Alzheimer's patient is offered during the Support Group, free of charge, with 24 hour advanced notice. - Claude Pepper Saturday Retreat
Address: TMH Adult Day Services, 2039 N. Monroe St.
Phone: 561-6869
Website: arc-tallahassee.org
Hours: Saturday 9am–1pm
A caregiver respite program offered by Alzheimer Resource Center for seniors with Alzheimer's and other memory disorders. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $5 per hour, but sponsorships are available.
Elder Care Services Alzheimer's Disease Initiative
Address: 2518 West Tennessee Street
Phone: 922-5554
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm
This organization provides in-home respite care and adult day-care services for those suffering from Alzheimer's or related dementia. Funding is limited so there may be a waiting list for those trying to access services. Clients must meet applicable eligibility criteria in order to qualify.
Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare Memory Disorder Clinic
Address: 1300 Miccosukee Rd.
Phone: 431-5001
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm
Funded through a grant from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs as part of the State's Alzheimer's Disease Initiative, the MDC coordinates a team of specialists who provide a comprehensive and coordinated diagnostic evaluation for persons concerned that they are having memory problems. A summary conference conducted by the team produces a personalized care plan, including resources for patient and family support. Other services are counseling for caregivers, training and education for professionals and caregivers, support groups and optional participation in research studies, and access to an educational library. Fees vary, and are generally covered by Medicare and private insurance; however some assistance is available for people experiencing financial difficulty. Clients may be referred by their personal physician or call directly to arrange a screening.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Feeling stretched caring for an older adult? "Powerful Tools for Caregivers" is an educational series designed to help family caregivers reduce stress, improve self-confidence, better communicate feelings, balance life, increase ability to make tough decisions and locate helpful resources. Classes consist of six, two and a half hour sessions held once a week. Two experienced class leaders conduct each session. Interactive lessons, discussions and brainstorming help you take the "tools" you choose and put them into action for your life. The program is free and respite care is provided. Classes are held at Saint Paul's United Methodist Church, 1700 North Meridian. For more information or to register, contact Louise Engle at 891-4003.