Alzheimer Foundation of America

Together for Care…in addition to Cure.

The Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA) is a national nonprofit organization that provides myriad programs and initiatives to assure quality of care and excellence in service to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and to their caregivers and families. Its mission is “to provide optimal care and services to individuals confronting dementia, and to their caregivers and families—through member organizations dedicated to improving quality of life.

AFA unites hundreds of member organizations from coast-to-coast that are dedicated to meeting the educational, social, emotional and practical needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related illnesses, and their families. Under AFA's umbrella, these organizations collaborate on education, resources, program design and implementation, fundraising campaigns, and advocacy—all resulting in better care for those affected by the disease.

AFA's member organizations include grassroots nonprofit organizations, healthcare facilities, government agencies, public safety departments and long-term care communities. They all share one vital factor: a commitment to dementia care.

AFA was founded on the belief that by raising awareness of the disease and educating healthcare professionals and the public at large, it would:

  • Help remove the stigma of the disease
  • Lead to early detection and proper treatment
  • Result in greater utilization of community resources
  • Ultimately improve quality of life
For more information, please go to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America website.

Top Tip

Avoid caregiver burnout. Make time for yourself. Join caregiver support groups. Pursue interests beyond your caregiving role, such as exercise, hobbies, journaling and art.

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Q: My 78-year-old father is experiencing the early stages of dementia. What can I do to minimize his frustration?

A: First, be sure that your father has been thoroughly assessed by a physician and that he is properly diagnosed. In some cases, dementia symptoms are caused by a treatable medical condition. If your father has been diagnosed with a progressive (irreversible) dementia, continue to pay close attention to his behavior and his complaints—and report any changes to his doctor. The doctor may propose treatments that will have the effect of reducing feelings of frustration.

As a family caregiver, you will have many opportunities to manage his experience to help reduce frustration. It helps to stick to a daily schedule. Program...

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