Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter
Tulsa Office
6465 S. Yale, Suite 312
Tulsa, OK 74136
24 Hour Helpline 1-800-272-3900
For Immediate Release
Contact: Tonda Ames, VP of Marketing
918-481-7782
July 20, 2009
EASE: Early Access to Support and Education
Support Program for People and Families Affected by a Recent Diagnosis
of Alzheimer’s Disease or a Related Disorder
“It’s as if you’re reading a book and someone has torn the pages out.” The person who said these words had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. People with progressive memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders are being diagnosed earlier than ever before, and the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma/Arkansas Chapter recognizes there is a growing need for families to learn together, plan together and live each day to the fullest.
People with mild memory loss and their family members often feel they would like to talk with others on a similar journey, to seek support from those who can understand. They search for ways to compensate for failing memory, to cope with changes in communication. They want to learn more about current research and medications to treat symptoms of the disease. They need to know how to make plans for legal and financial matters.
To meet these needs, an E.A.S.E. program will be offered in seven weekly sessions on Friday mornings from 10:00 AM to noon beginning October 9, 2009, in Sapulpa. Meetings will be held at the Sapulpa Public Library, 27 W. Dewey, Sapulpa 74066, 1st floor, Frank Hall Room. Staff of the Alzheimer’s Association will facilitate sessions. Family members and people with early stage memory loss will usually meet together at the beginning of the session; divide into two separate groups for discussion, and join together again near the end of the session. This will give everyone an opportunity to express thoughts and concerns openly.
The E.A.S.E. program is appropriate for people with mild memory loss who are:
§ Aware of their diagnosis
§ Able to communicate their concerns and participate in a small group
§ Interested in participating in the program
§ Accompanied by a participating family member or friend
Weekly topics will include Alzheimer’s update and current research, chapter services, coping with the disease from a family perspective, effective communication, community resources, legal and financial issues, and meaningful activities.
Registration is necessary for participation. For more information or to register, please contact: Cathy Sullins at the Alzheimer’s Association Oklahoma Chapter: 481-7741 or 800-272-3900.
There is no charge for the program. Donations are gratefully accepted.
The Alzheimer’s Association is the largest voluntary health organization in the country with the dual mission of conquering Alzheimer’s disease through research and enhancing care and support for people with the disease, their families, and caregivers. The Association provides a 24-hour Helpline (1-800-272-3900), support groups, education programs, care consultation, information and referral, Safe Return (a national program to help find people with dementia who become lost). For more information about Alzheimer’s disease visit www.alz.org.
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