A Loved One Has Just Been Diagnosed With Dementia, What Should You Do?

Realizing that a loved one has dementia is heartbreaking and overwhelming and most families find that there are many more questions than answers.  One of the best initial steps families can take is to contact their local Alzheimer’s Association chapter.  The New Mexico chapter has locations in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces, Farmington and Roswell.   You will not find a more caring, helpful and knowledgeable bunch of folks.

Local Alzheimer’s Association Services

Support groups, caregiving instruction, a statewide Helpline, referral assistance and more are offered by the Albuquerque office of the Alzheimer’s Association

The Albuquerque office offers comfort and support, and on a practical level, offers support groups, caregiving instruction, a statewide Helpline, a respite assistance program, resource and referral assistance, advocacy and invaluable information to help you move forward.  The Helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  The Helpline can answer your questions and give you emotional support.  The Albuquerque office also offers the Savvy Caregiver class, which provides instruction and advice to family members who are caring for a loved one with dementia.  The class meets once a week for seven weeks.

Volunteer Opportunities

There are also many volunteer opportunities at the Alzheimer’s Association.  Visit the New Mexico chapter’s website at www.alz.org/newmexico to find out how to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, the Dancing Stars Gala or the UnFOREgettable Golf Classic.  Through these events, you can help the Alzheimer’s Association in its effort to eliminate dementia.

It has been said that to get through the hardest journey, you need take only one step at a time, but you must keep on stepping.  The Alzheimer’s Association can help you find your first step, and can help you keep on stepping.