ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION DESERT SOUTHWEST CHAPTER Northern Arizona Region

MISSION: To eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce their risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. AGENCY SELF-DESCRIPTION: The Alzheimer’s Association, Desert Southwest Chapter has been providing a variety of free programs, services and resource information since 1981 to people with Alzheimer's and/or related dementias, families caring for them and health care professionals. We are a community based non-profit charitable organization that offers six core program areas to help cope with all aspects of the disease and its progression. Our purpose is to equip, energize and ultimately empower individuals, families and communities to provide compassionate and effective dementia care and support in Arizona and Southern Nevada. Our youth program is an educational program that is presented in the schools using age-appropriate materials, including books, videos and PowerPoint presentations, to discuss aging and memory loss with children of all ages from K through 12th grade. The Alzheimer's Association also offers support, services, and education programs for families, professionals and communities throughout northern Arizona. HELPLINE/INFORMATION & REFERRAL: Call 1-800-272-3900 - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to speak confidentially with a trained specialist for  support, information and referral. Free of charge. FAMILY CARE CONSULTATION: individualized guidance on care options, interventions and resources with ongoing support. Free of charge. SUPPORT GROUPS: regularly scheduled small group sessions that offer peer support and education. Facilitated by trained individuals. Free of charge. EDUCATION: programs designed to increase awareness and knowledge of Alzheimer's and other related dementias. EARLY STAGE: programs to engage, educate and empower persons diagnosed with Alzheimer's and other related dementias and their loved ones to fully utilize their strengths and capabilities. Free of charge. MEDIC ALERT + SAFE RETURN: a nationwide identification and education program that mobilizes first responders should an individual wander or become lost. Education on home safety and wandering prevention. Scholarships available.