CEDAR RAPIDS, IA, April 6, 2020 – While the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the health of millions in this country and around the world, the novel coronavirus presents unique challenges for more than 5 million Americans, including 66,000 in Iowa, living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
The Alzheimer’s Association Iowa Chapter is offering free virtual education programs and support groups in the coming weeks to help all Iowa caregivers and their families. The Alzheimer's Association offers a number of education programs that can help those living with Alzheimer’s and their families understand what to expect so they can be prepared to meet the changes ahead and live well for as long as possible.
“During this challenging time, it’s critical that all Iowa caregivers have access to Alzheimer’s Association resources even if they cannot venture out,” said Kara Fishburn, Program Manager for the Alzheimer’s Association in Eastern Iowa. “The COVID-19 crisis is altering Americans’ daily lives, but the needs of Alzheimer’s caregivers cannot be put on hold. These online programs allow us to connect with caregivers and provide necessary information even amid the current crisis.”
Each virtual education program is approximately one hour and allows the audience to ask questions and engage with others going through the journey online.
Upcoming virtual education programs across Iowa include
- Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body on Monday, April 6, 4:30—5:30pm
- Effective Communication Strategies on Tuesday, April 7, 1pm—2pm
- 10 Warning Signs on Tuesday, April 14, 4pm—5pm
For a complete list of upcoming programs, or to register for a program, visit alz.org/crf or contact Kara Fishburn at kmfishburn@alz.org or 319.238.7641.In addition to the virtual education classes, the Alzheimer’s Association offers online community resources at alz.org including ALZConnected®, a free online community where people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family and friends can ask questions, get advice and find support.
More than 16 million family and friends, including 136,000 in Iowa, provide unpaid care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in the United States. To help family caregivers navigate the current complex and quickly changing environment, the Alzheimer’s Association has also offered additional guidance to families at alz.org/COVID19.
The Alzheimer’s Association free, 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) offers around-the-clock support for caregivers and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and all dementia.
Additional Facts and Figures: (alz.org/facts)
- Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th-leading cause of death in Iowa.
- More than 5 million Americans are living with the disease, including 66,000 inIowa — a number estimated to grow to as many as 73,000 by 2025.
- More than 16 million family and friends, including 136,000 in Iowa, provide unpaid care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in the United States.
- In 2019, friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s in Iowa provided an estimated 155 million hours of unpaid care, a contribution valued more than $2.036 billion.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia. Visit www.alz.org/iowa or call 1.800.272.3900 for more information. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.