Northern Michigan Region

2011-08-05T18:44:00.002-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oy1meibwQ0A&feature=share

Gosling Czubak Engineering Sciences - Thank YOU!

2011-07-08T10:30:00.002-04:00

Gosling Czubak Engineering Sciences are a Walk to End Alzheimer's Program Sponsor again this year. Thank you for your steadfast partnership over the years! We appreciate you!

French Manor Senior Living - Thank YOU!

2011-07-05T10:30:00.000-04:00

French Manor Senior Living is once again sponsoring at the Program Sponsor level. Thank you for your faithful partnership through the years!

Munson Medical Center - Thank YOU!

2011-06-30T10:30:00.000-04:00

Munson Medical Center is once again sponsoring Walk to End Alzheimer's as a Benefactor Sponsor. Thank you for your continued partnership! With your help, we're meeting the needs of families here in Northern Michigan.

Dr. Diane Parsons - Thank YOU

2011-06-27T10:30:00.000-04:00

Thank you Dr. Parsons for coming on board as a Walk to End Alzheimer's Benefactor Sponsor! We know in your line of work, you deal with dementia patients every day. You know better than most what this disease is all about. Thank you for helping the Alzheimer's Association as we work to achieve the goal of a world without Alzheimer's!

A Helping Hand

2011-06-25T10:30:00.003-04:00

My Grandmother, a feisty 91 and living alone in a small town in Oregon, had a total hip replacement and was house bound. Our family, not being nearby, was concerned for her welfare and called Meals on Wheels. We let the service know how Grandmother didn’t like the idea of being dependant on anyone for anything.
The next day a volunteer phoned Grandmother and cheerfully explained that Meals on Wheels is a service which relies on volunteers to help the elderly and the ill. Would she be interested in it?

There was a reflective pause. "Well, sure," my grandmother said. "If you can't find anyone else to get food to the old people, I guess I can."

Orchard Creek - Thank YOU!

2011-06-24T10:30:00.000-04:00

Orchard Creek Senior Living and Healthcare Community is once again supporting Walk to End Alzheimer's as a Silver Sponsor. We appreciate their willingness to help support the families here in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease.

The Village at Bay Ridge - Thank YOU!

2011-06-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

The Village at Bay Ridge is a Silver Sponsor for Walk to End Alzheimer's again this year! We appreciate our partners who help us year in and year out and The Village at Bay Ridge has been with us for years. We appreciate you!

Wendy's of Traverse City and Petoskey - Thank YOU!

2011-06-20T10:30:00.001-04:00

Wendy's of Traverse City and Petoskey is a new Bronze Sponsor for our Walk to End Alzheimer's this year! We appreciate you partnering with the Alzheimer's Association as we strive to help the families in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease.

Revamping Some Good Old Songs

2011-06-18T10:30:00.003-04:00

Some hit songs of the 60s and 70s are being revised with new lyrics to accommodate aging baby boomers. They include:

Herman's Hermits: Mrs. Brown, You've Got a Lovely Walker

The Bee Gees: How Can You Mend a Broken Hip?

Bobby Darin: Splish, Splash, I Was Havin' a Flash

Ringo Starr: I Get By With a Little Help from Depends

Roberta Flack: The First Time Ever I Forgot Your Face

Johnny Nash: I Can't See Clearly Now

Paul Simon: Fifty Ways to Lose Your Liver

Commodores: Once, Twice, Three Times to the Bathroom

Marvin Gaye: I Heard it Through the GrapeNuts

Procol Harem: A Whiter Shade of Hair

Leo Sayer: You Make Me Feel Like Napping

First Community Bank - Thank YOU!

2011-06-16T10:30:00.001-04:00

First Community Bank is one of our Bronze Sponsors this year for Walk to End Alzheimer's. We're happy to have them back supporting us again this year. We appreciate you!

Grandvue - Thank YOU

2011-06-14T10:30:00.000-04:00

Grandvue Medical Care Facility is supporting our Walk to End Alzheimer's again this year as a Silver Sponsor. Grandvue and their staff are long term partners who help us help families here in Northern Michigan. We appreciate you!

Comfort Keepers - Thank YOU!

2011-06-13T10:30:00.000-04:00

Again this year Comfort Keepers has stepped up to be our Platinum Sponsor! We can't say enough good things about Russ and his staff at Comfort Keepers. They work hard to support families in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease. We appreciate all you do!

Culver Meadows - Thank YOU!

2011-06-10T10:30:00.000-04:00

Culver Meadows is supporting Walk to End Alzheimer's again this year as a Silver Sponsor. We appreciate your continued and much valued support for the families in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease!

Listen Carefully to Your Doctor

2011-06-08T10:30:00.002-04:00

Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical. A few days later the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gorgeous young woman on his arm.

A couple of days later the doctor spoke to Morris and said, "You're really doing great, aren't you?"

Morris replied, "Just doing what you said, Doc: 'Get a hot mamma and be cheerful.'"

The doctor said, "I didn't say that. I said, 'You've got a heart murmur. Be careful.'"

Culver's Day in Alpena

2011-06-06T10:30:00.000-04:00

Diane and Pegg will be meeting and greeting the fine customers of Culver's in Alpena on June 9th from 11:00am - 6:00pm

Culver's is once again donating their "Butter Bucks" to the Alzheimer's Association. Customers can purchase "Butter Bucks" for $1.00 each and then redeem them on their next visit to Culver's for the full $1.00 value.

This is our 3rd year to partner with Culver's in Alpena. Stop by for lunch or dinner and thank the fine folks at Culver's for their support!

Genetics of Alzheimer's Video

2011-06-04T10:30:00.000-04:00

Teens in Action - Garage Sale!

2011-06-01T10:30:00.000-04:00

Teens in Action Garage Sale

Friday - June 10th

8 - 4 come rain or shine!

941 George Street

Traverse City

All proceeds benefit Walk to End Alzheimer's in Traverse City. Come out and support the kids! Their goal is to raise $1,000 by Oct 1st. If you can't make it to the garage sale, you can donate to Teens in Action on-line HERE.

Independence

2011-05-27T10:30:00.000-04:00

Independence – Caregivers must walk a fine line on the issue of independence. On the one hand, we want to help our person with dementia (PWD) and keep them safe. On the other hand, we don’t want to limit our PWD from doing things they can do for themselves. The matter of independence often boils down to two underlying issues caregivers need to monitor, safety and frustration.

Situation #1 – the PWD who has been getting lost frequently decides to walk to a store a few blocks away.

“You can’t walk to the store anymore. I’m tired of having to look for you when you get lost.” Nothing gets a person’s back up more than being told they can’t do what they think they can do, and what they want to do.

“I need to go to the store too. Let’s go this afternoon.” The caregiver may not be able to drop everything and go when the PWD wants to. Often, the suggestion that they’ll go together later will be enough to redirect the PWD for the moment. The caregiver may have to give that same answer many times until the trip is completed.

Situation #2 – the PWD is trying to use an electric can opener without success and is getting frustrated.

“Why can’t you do that? Just put the can like this. How hard was that?” The caregiver opens the can. The PWD is left feeling inadequate and frustrated.

“That can might be dented, let me hold it while you push the handle down. I’ve had this happen before.” The caregiver gave a logical explanation for the problem and assisted the PWD to finish the job.

Dental Hygiene and Dementia

2011-05-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

In the past 30 years the number of nursing-home residents who still have their own teeth has risen significantly. Many of these people need assistance with their dental hygiene, as well as with other hygiene.

Jablonski and her team conducted a pilot study with seven people who had either moderate or severe cases of dementia. The researchers used the MOUTh technique on the subjects for two weeks, recording the state of the patients' mouths and how the patients reacted throughout the study.

At the beginning of the study all seven subjects had poor oral health, as determined by the Oral Health Assessment Tool. Eight categories concerning oral health are scored between zero and two. The lower the score the healthier the mouth. The average score for the subjects at the start of the study was 7.29. By the end of the study the average score was 1.00.

"To my knowledge, we are the only nurses in the country who are looking at ways to improve the mouth care of persons with dementia, especially those who fight and bite during mouth care," said Jablonski. "Our approach is unique because we frame resistive behavior as a reaction to a perceived threat."

Read more about this new approach to oral hygiene at the Alzheimer's Reading Room.

Texting for Seniors

2011-05-21T16:03:00.000-04:00

Everyone is texting these days and the lauguage is shifting because of it. We all know what LOL and BFF mean, don't we? Well for seniors - things take on a whole new meaning!

ATD - At the Doctor's
BFF - Best Friend's Funeral
BTW - Bring the Wheelchair
BYOT - Bring Your Own Teeth
CBM - Covered by Medicare
CUATSC - See You at the Senior Center
DWI - Driving While Incontinent
FWIW - Forgot Where I Was
FYI - Found Your Insulin
GGPBL - Gotta Go, Pacemaker Battery Low
GHA - Got Heartburn Again
HGBM - Had Good Bowel Movement
IMHO - Is My Hearing-Aid On?
LMDO - Laughing My Dentures Out
LOL - Living on Lipitor
LWO - Lawrence Welk's On
OMMR - On My Massage Recliner
OMSG - Oh My! Sorry, Gas
ROFL...CGU - Rolling on the Floor Laughing...Can't get Up!
TTYL - Talk to You Louder
WAITT - Who Am I Talking To?
WTP - Where's the Prunes
WWNO - Walker Wheels Need Oil

Hope these help!

GGLKI - Gotta Go, Laxative Kicking in!

Dignity

2011-05-19T10:30:00.002-04:00

Dignity – is important for self-esteem. A person with dementia (PWD) deserves to be treated in such a way that they can retain their dignity as much as possible.

Situation #1 – the PWD needs their dentures scrubbed.

“Give me your dentures and I’ll scrub them.” Nobody wants to pop out their teeth and hand them to someone else.

“Here’s a dish to put your dentures in. I’ll be back in a moment and clean them for you. I’ll bring you a cup of tea to sip while I do that.” Giving the PWD a moment’s privacy to accomplish this helps them retain their dignity. They may forget and have to be reminded why the dish is there, but using the same dish each and every time will help.

Situation #2 – the PWD needs regular trips to the bathroom to prevent accidents. Few things will squash our dignity faster than having an accident.

“You need to go to the bathroom.” This approach rarely works, as the PWD may lack the ability to recognize the sensation of a full bladder anymore. They don’t think they need to go. They resent being told that they do.

“After you use the bathroom and wash your hands, we’ll have a snack.” You’ve given a logical reason why the trip to the bathroom is needed. Substitute the snack with a walk or playing a game or whatever works for the PWD.

Pause for a CAUSE

2011-05-17T10:30:00.001-04:00

You are invited to join the Alpena Association of Lifelong Learners at: Alpena Community College room CTR 104 Tuesday, May 24 9:00am - 10:00am Enjoy a doughnut and a free cup of coffee. Drop off a cash contribution, visit with friends, and meet the Alzheimer's Association staff in Alpena. What a great way to start the day and help our community!

2011 Walk to End Alzheimer's Quilt

2011-05-10T10:30:00.002-04:00

Once again the lovely ladies of The White Pine Quilt Guild in Harrisville, have donated a quilt that will be raffled at the Alpena Walk to End Alzheimer's on September 17.

Tickets are available now at the Alpena Office or from Alpena Walk to End Alzheimer's teams. Cost is $1/ticket or 6 tickets/$5. All proceeds benefit the families here in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease.

This beautiful quilt is queen bed sized and machine quilted by Ruth's Quilted Dreams of Harrisville. The guild ladies who stitched the quilt meet at Hollyhock Quilt Shoppe in Harrisville, MI. If you're in the area, stop in and thank the ladies there for their generous support!

Respect

2011-05-09T10:30:00.001-04:00

Lori La Bey is a speaker, trainer, consultant, spokes person, and author who advocates for people with Alzheimer’s Disease. She authors a blog called Alzheimer’s Speaks.

Lori defines her PRIDE Principal™ this way: Preserve, Respect, Independence, Dignity for Everyone. As caregivers we are charged with the responsibility to “preserve” these things for our person with dementia (PWD). Today we’ll look at respect.

Respect – is a need we all have, no matter where we are in life. As a caregiver, preserving the self respect of your PWD is a great way to help that person feel good. Avoiding snappish replies and talking down to someone will help preserve their self-esteem.

Situation #1 – the PWD is repeatedly asking about dinner.

“I told you already, we’re going out to dinner. Stop badgering me about it!” The caregiver has arms crossed, frown in place, tapping a toe on the floor, assaulting the PWD with both verbal and physical disrespect.

“We’re going out for dinner tonight, it will be fun.” The caregiver is smiling, even though it’s the fifteenth time these words have been repeated in the last half hour. The caregiver is answering the question and giving positive non-verbal communication as well.

Situation #2 – the PWD is having difficulty tying a shoe.

“Let me do that, we’re going to be late. You can’t even tie your own shoe.” The caregiver takes the laces out of the PWD’s fingers and ties the shoe.

“Those shoes need cleaning up, wear this pair today.” Or, “Those shoes don’t go with your outfit, wear these instead.” The caregiver holds out a pair of slip-on style shoes. The caregiver offered the PWD a way out of a frustrating and embarrassing situation with a logical reason for changing what wasn’t working.

Preserving a PWD’s self respect will help keep peace and harmony in the home. A PWD who retains their self-esteem is less likely to become angry, sullen, uncooperative, or depressed.

Caregiving Tip - Mastering Reactions

2011-05-05T10:30:00.005-04:00

One of the best skills a caregiver can learn is to control their own reactions.

"But it's my loved one's behavior that is the problem!"

Understanding dementia is difficult and living with it is too. For example, a person with dementia cannot remember repeating themselves over and over. However, this does prevent them from understanding anger, impatience, disapproval, or any other negative reaction caused by their forgetful behavior. Hurt feelings, return anger, and confusion are often the result.

Left unchecked, this becomes a vicious cycle. The caregiver feels stressed by the dementia related behavior. The person with dementia feels stressed by the caregiver's reactions. It falls on the caregiver to break that cycle because the person with dementia is not able to.

Learning to not react negatively to dementia caused behaviors will result in a more content and less stressful environment for everyone.

New Department of Defense program to fund Alzheimer's research

2011-05-02T10:30:00.001-04:00

As the leading voluntary health organization advocating for Alzheimer's care, support and research, the Alzheimer's Association is pleased that Congress has authorized a $15 million investment to be provided to the Department of Defense's Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center (TATRC) to create an Alzheimer's Research Grant Program. The program will provide grants for research that will explore the causes, complications and potential treatments associated with Alzheimer's disease, particularly among those in the military.

The funding will be used to create a peer-reviewed research grant program portfolio which will include traumatic brain injury (TBI), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other research areas. The Alzheimer's Association joined US Against Alzheimer's in support of the creation of this very important program which will make a significant contribution to greater understanding about Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's Genes

2011-04-29T10:30:00.001-04:00

"Ultimately, the full list of Alzheimer’s genes emerging from the family-based genetic studies of the Alzheimer’s Genome Project and the population based studies of the International Genomics of Alzheimer's Project are getting us closer and closer to someday being able to eradicate Alzheimer’s disease using a strategy of early prediction and early intervention."
-- Dr. Rudolph Tanzi

What a happy day it will be when our hard working researchers are able to tag the cause or triggers for Alzheimer's! This article goes indepth about the genetic information we have to date.

Thank You!

2011-04-27T10:30:00.003-04:00

A huge thank you to all the volunteers who came together to make this year's 9-Ball Pool Tournaments in Montmorency and Alpena Counties successful. We had a blast! If you missed out, be sure and mark your calendars next year, Feb 12 - March 25, 2012.

Normal Memory Loss

2011-04-25T10:30:00.001-04:00

Not all memory loss is Alzheimer's or a related dementia. Let's repeat that for emphasis. Not all memory loss is Alzheimer's or a related dementia. With aging comes a degree of memory loss that is a normal, natural consequence of growing older. A recent study done by Dr. Adam Gazzaley, a neurologist at the University of California at San Francisco, shows the differences in brain activity between people 20-30 years old vs people 60-80 years old.

Dr. Gazzaley’s study looked at a type of memory called working memory, which is considered a precious and finite resource that people tap into when they are engaged in a task, like doing a work project or having a conversation. The study did not look at the effects of multitasking on long-term memory. However, Dr. Gazzaley said there was a relationship between people’s ability to develop long-term memories and the amount of time they spend focused on a particular experience. In other words, if interruptions make it difficult for older people to remember what they were doing in the short run, it also could hurt their ability to record those experiences over the long run, he said.

But Dr. Gazzaley said the study sheds more light on the reasons that short-term memories seem suddenly to go empty, as when someone stands in front the refrigerator, forgetting what it is he went to get.

“Events such as these increase in frequency as we get older — the classic senior moment. We now understand that this is not necessarily a memory problem per se, but often the result of an interaction between attention and memory,” he said. “For example, a phone call or text that interrupts us on the way to the refrigerator will negatively impact our ability to remember what we were going to the refrigerator to get in the first place.”

So the next time you experience one of these "senior moments", relax and realize that it may very well be a normal, expected reaction to our hectic and cluttered lifestyle!

Happy Easter

2011-04-23T10:30:00.002-04:00

From the Staff and Volunteers
of the Northern Michigan Region

Traverse City Walk to End Alzheimer's

2011-04-20T10:30:00.000-04:00

Have you visited the website for Traverse City's Walk to End Alzheimer's yet?

Today would be a good day to:

join an existing team

donate to a registered walker

What are you waiting for?

The end of Alzheimer's starts here!

Virtual Candlelight Rally

2011-04-19T14:45:00.003-04:00

On the evening of May 15, 2011, advocates will gather on the lawn in front of the Capitol in Washington, D.C., share their stories and light candles in honor of loved ones. This moving ceremony is part of the Alzheimer's Association Alzheimer's Advocacy Forum. Add your support by joining our Virtual Rally by visiting the web page.

Happy Passover

2011-04-18T10:30:00.000-04:00

From the Staff and Volunteers

of the Northern Region

Overcoming Bathing Issues

2011-04-15T10:30:00.000-04:00

Getting a dementia patent to bathe can be one of life's biggest challenges. This article by Carole Larkin gives a ton of helpful tips and techniques. This is a great one:

If there is no other way to get them to bathe. Ask their doctor to write on a prescription pad something like this: “Mr. So-and-so needs to bathe two times a week for infection control”. Make several copies of the prescription (in case they tear it up). Show the prescription to them and say “Doctor’s orders”.

Alpena Walk to End Alzheimer's

2011-04-13T10:30:00.002-04:00

Have you visited the website for Alpena's Walk to End Alzheimer's yet?

Today would be a good day to:

join an existing team

donate to a registered walker

What are you waiting for?

The end of Alzheimer's starts here!

Chicken Dinner & Pool Tournament - Atlanta Eagles

2011-04-11T10:00:00.003-04:00

We have something to crow about! The good folks of Atlanta are pulling out all the stops this year to give a grand finale to the 14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments. The Montmorency County Commission on Aging is hosting a Chicken Dinner, open to the public, on Sunday, April 17th, in conjunction with our last Bar Pool Tournament! The Atlanta Eagles are graciously donating the use of their building for this event! Join us for a fun day!

Atlanta Eagles 18020 M-32, Atlanta
Pool Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination
Dinner begins at 1:00pm
Cost is $10.00 at the door
(Contact MCCOA at 989.785.2580 for advance tickets at $7.00 each)
50/50 raffle Chinese Raffle More fun than you can shake a pool cue at!

Mercy Hospital Grayling

2011-04-08T10:30:00.000-04:00

Mercy Hospital Grayling is once again contributing to Alpena's Walk to End Alzheimer's as a Program Sponsor. They have been a steadfast participant in this event for many years. Thank you! Your continued support helps families here in Northern Michigan.

Cadillac - Save the Date!

2011-04-06T10:30:00.002-04:00

We are excited to announce our first satillite Walk to End Alzheimer's. Cadillac is piloting this innovative move to start local walks in our Northern Michigan Region. Cadillac's Walk to End Alzheimer's will be tracked on the Traverse City walk site. Look for the Cadillac teams to be listed there soon. For more information, contact the office at 231.929.3804 or visit the website link above.

Cadillac Walk - September 24th
exact route to be announced
10:00am - registration
11:00am - walk

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments - Chauncey's Pub

2011-04-04T10:00:00.001-04:00

Join us Sunday, April 10, at
Chauncey's Pub
121 N State St, Hillman
for the sixth 9-Ball Tournament of 2011.

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Chauncey's Pub
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

Alzheimer's Study in Scotland

2011-04-01T10:30:00.000-04:00

This study is looking at the possible impact of melatonin on sleep habits of people with dementia. The hopeful conclusion is that adding melatonin will improve the person with dementia's quality of sleep, thereby allowing them to function better during the day. This study is being done in Scotland.

"In our groundwork for this project we investigated a slow-release version of the natural compound melatonin. Our findings suggested that the participants functioned better during the day - possibly due to a better quality sleep pattern." Dr Crawford said that melatonin does not currently exist as a treatment for dementia but was registered in Europe and the UK for use with elderly patients with sleeping difficulties. He said: "It has proven to be remarkably safe and virtually free from side effects. We are exploring whether its use as an add-on treatment for dementia could transform the lives of patients and their carers. "With the help of volunteers from Scotland we aim to establish whether adding melatonin to current treatments could provide a major advance in dementia management."

Walk to End Alzheimer's Traverse City Chairperson

2011-03-30T10:30:00.002-04:00

We are pleased to have Jessica Schlimme, who is employed by First Community Bank in Traverse City, serve as the 2011 Event Chairperson for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.

Jessica is very excited about this year’s event. “Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be a day to remember those who have been lost to this disease, to honor their caregivers, and to work toward an end to this illness.”

The Traverse City walk will take place Saturday, October 1st, at the Village, Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City. Join Jessica in this event by visiting Walk to End Alzheimer’s or call the Alzheimer's Office at 231.929.3804. The end of Alzheimer's starts here.

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments - Hoppe's Hut

2011-03-28T10:00:00.001-04:00

Join us Sunday, April 3, at
Hoppe's Hut
6449 M-65 South, Lachine
for the fifth 9-Ball Tournament of 2011.

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Hoppe's Hut
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

Train Your Brain

2011-03-25T10:30:00.002-04:00

The Alzheimer's Association has long endorsed our "Maintain Your Brain" program which stresses using your brain to keep it active and healthy. This study done by Institut Universitaire de Geriatrie de Montreal illustrates the reasons why.

The hypothesis behind the research was that certain cells traditionally involved in other brain processes could, through a simple memory-training programme, temporarily take over since they themselves are not yet affected.

The above has been accepted for many years, the exciting part of this study is seeing it displayed through Magnetic resonance imaging.Before the memory training, magnetic resonance imaging in both the healthy elderly subjects and those with MCI showed activation in areas of the brain traditionally associated with memory.

As expected, decreased activation was observed in subjects with MCI. After training, brain areas in elderly subjects with MCI showed increased activation in areas typically associated with memory, but also in new areas of the brain usually associated with language processing, spatial and object memory and skill learning. “Analysis of brain activity during encoding as measured before and after the training program, indicates that increased post-training activation in the right inferior parietal gyrus is associated with post-intervention improvement. The healthy area of the brain has taken over for the area that is compromised,” said Belleville.

Diane O'Connor and Lisa Teglas, both Program Coordindators for our Northern Region, are available to give the "Maintain Your Brain" presentation to groups upon request. Contact your closest office to schedule a date, phone numbers are below the header.

2011 Facts and Figures Video

2011-03-22T10:19:00.002-04:00

Please share this video with your friends and family, re-post on Facebook, your personal blog, Twitter, wherever you can share. People need to know!

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments - Avalon Bar

2011-03-21T10:00:00.001-04:00

Join us Sunday, March 27, at
Avalon Bar
18020 County Road 451, Hillman
for the fourth 9-Ball Tournament of 2011.

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Avalon Bar
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

Senate Appropriation Subcommittee Meeting March 16

2011-03-15T14:12:00.005-04:00

Pegg Thomas, from our Alpena office, will be testifying before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee in Lansing on Wednesday, March 16th. She will be appealing to the Senators for reinstatement of funding for the Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

All state funding was cut in 2009. But today is a new day! Our new governor wants "value for dollar" spending and that's what we plan to demonstrate to the Senators on Wednesday. Here is a snippet from Pegg's testmony:

According to data release this year, in Michigan there are 180,000 people with dementia. If even 1% of them per year, 1,800 people, are able to live an extra 3 months at home due to our services, it will save the State of Michigan $8,497,764 in nursing home Medicaid payments alone. The state could reinstate our past support of $600,000 yearly and still save $7,897,764 per year.

You can help by contacting your local Senator and asking that he look at the facts and make the determination to support the Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.

District 35 - Darwin Booher
District 36 - John Moolenaar
District 37 - Howard Walker

We currently have no state or federal funding. Our offices survive on the generosity of the people of Northern Michigan, some grants and our fundraising events. Given the state of the economy here in Michigan, however, it hasn't been enough. We are facing a dire shortfall at the end of our fiscal year on June 30, 2011. Nobody wants to cut services, but we face that possibility without a change from Lansing. Please make that contact now.

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournament - Know-Good Pub & Grub

2011-03-14T10:00:00.001-04:00

Join us Sunday, March 20, at
Know-Good Pub & Grub
12350 State St, Atlanta
for the third 9-Ball Tournament of 2011.

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Know-Good Pub & Grub
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

McFalda Law Office - Rogers City

2011-03-12T10:30:00.000-05:00

Thank you McFalda Law Office for joining us again in 2011 as a Program Sponsor for Walk to End Alzheimer's in Alpena! Attorney Judy McFalda cares about the people of Northern Michigan. This is the 3rd year McFalda Law Office has made this commitment. Returning sponsors build the backbone of our Walks.

Join the cause by supporting Walk to End Alzheimer's today. Start a team, join a team, or donate to a registered walker on-line today. The end of Alzheimer's starts HERE.

Brain Awareness Week - March 14-20, 2011

2011-03-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

What is Brain Awareness Week and why should we care about it? Started in 1996 by The Dana Alliance, Brain Awareness Week focuses international attention on the field of neuroscience and offers opportunities for teachers and students to engage in fun educational activities. The goals include:

* Inspire the next generation of scientists

* Contribute to general understanding of basic brain functions

* Improve public health by expanding awareness of neurological disorders

* Make the connection between increased support for biomedical research and benefits to public health

All of these goals fall in line with our vision for a world without Alzheimer's. Today's student may be tomorrow's scientist who unlocks the mystery of the disease.

Do something good for your brain during the week. Take a walk (exercise), visit with friends (be social), play a game (stimulate your mind), and try one of the healthy recipes (eat healthy foods) found here on our blog.

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments - Hi Way Inn

2011-03-07T10:00:00.001-05:00

Join us Sunday, March 13, at
Hi Way Inn
231 N State St, Hillman
for the second 9-Ball Tournament of 2011.

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Hi Way Inn
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

14th Annual Bar Pool Tournaments - Phatt Boyz

2011-02-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

Join us Sunday, March 6, at
Phatt Boyz Bar
3046 M-32 West, Alpena
for the first 9-Ball Tournament of 2011. This is Phatt Boyz first year to participate in the annual fund raising event for the Alzheimer's Association. Welcome Phatt Boyz!

Registration - 11:30am
Pool Play begins - noon
Costs - $5.00 per player
Lunch provided to players by Phatt Boyz
Non-players lunch for $5.00 donation to the Alzheimer's Association
50/50 raffle
$500 cash prize raffle (drawing 04-15-11)
32 or less players - double elimination
33 or more players - singles elimination

Aging Boomers

2011-02-25T10:30:00.000-05:00

The Baby Boomers started turning 65 as of January 1st this year at the incredible rate of 10,000 per day. We know that 1 in 8 persons (roughly 13%) age 65 and older will develop Alzhimer's. Statistically, that means 1,300 of the 10,000 daily Boomers reaching 65 will develop the disease.

What can we do to be ready for the staggering numbers ahead? Personally we can take better care of our own overall health. Proper diet, exercise, and living a socially active life are proven methods to staying healthy longer

Locally we can support Walk to End Alzheimer's and keep our services available, most free of charge, to the people who need them. The more education, counseling, and support we provide to families, the longer they can care for their loved one at home. Nursing facilities are expensive and the decision to admit a loved one is gut-wrenching. Enabling and supporting home caregivers benefits the family as well as the person with dementia.

Nationally we can write to our senators and represenatives and demand that they take this crisis seriously. More money is needed for research. Alzheimer's research is tragically under-funded compared to other diseases.

The power of the Boomers has always been its numbers. It's time to use those numbers in another positive way, by supporting the Walks in Alpena and Traverse City, and by contacting our State Senators, State Representatives, U.S. Senator Carl Levin, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, and our U.S. Congress Representatives. Together we will make a difference.

Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries

2011-02-24T10:30:00.000-05:00

Sweet potato fries are a fun alternative to traditional potato fries. Make them without the mess of frying with this oven-baked recipe from PositScience. Sweet potatoes and olive oil add beneficial folic acid and antioxidants to any meal.

1 pound sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2 inch strips

1/4 cup olive oil

1 teas salt

1/2 teas cayenne pepper (or regular pepper to taste)

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with aluminium foil or parchment paper. Put all incredients in a large sealable bag and toss several times to coat. Spread onto baking sheet. Bake 30 - 40 minutes, turning 3 or 4 times. Drain on paper towels.

Walk to End Alzheimer's

2011-02-22T10:30:00.000-05:00

The Alzheimer's Association has re-branded Memory Walk into Walk to End Alzheimer's. This is the first year under our new name. By changing the name to include the word Alzheimer's, as well as firmly indicating our goal to find the cure, we hope to attract more people and raise more awareness of this disease and the families affected by it.

Here in Northern Michigan we have two walks already scheduled. The web pages are up and active. Today is the perfect time to sign up your team, or join an existing team, and get involved.

Remember, you do not have to attend the walk to participate! We understand that people are busy and Saturdays in the fall are not always convenient. By raising funds through the spring and summer months, you can still be an irreplacible part of this year's Walk to End Alzheimer's!

Another way to participate is to support a registered walker. Click on their name to make an on-line donation to the walker of your choice. You can make your donation in memory of, or in honor of, the person you choose. Click on the links below for the walk closest to you:

Alpena - Walk to End Alzheimer's

Traverse City - Walk to End Alzheimer's

Thank you for helping us make this inaugural year of Walk to End Alzheimer's a successful event! We wouldn't be here without the support of friends like you!

Chewy Oat-Nut Cookies

2011-02-21T10:30:00.000-05:00

Another sweet recipe from PositScience to deliver important antioxidants, complex carbohydrates, and omega 3 fatty acids.

10 Tbsp unsalted butter

1/3 cup sugar

1/3 cup brown sugar

1 egg

1 teas vanilla

3/4 cup whole wheat flour

1/2 teas baking soda

1/2 teas salt (omit if using salted butter)

1 1/2 cups oatmeal (not quick oats)

1/2 cup pitted prunes, chopped into raisin sized pieces

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/2 cup flaked, unsweetened coconut

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Cream butter and sugars with a mixer. Add egg and vanilla, beat well. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt, mix just until combined. Stir in oatmeal, dates, nuts, and coconut. Spoon large tablespoons onto baking sheet. Bake 8 - 9 minutes. Allow to cool on the baking sheets 4 - 5 minutes before removing. For easiest removing, line baking sheets with parchment paper before baking.

Oatmeal with Almonds and Dried Cherries

2011-02-17T10:30:00.002-05:00

Try this for breakfast, a bowl full of delicious antioxidants, complex carbohydrates, omega 3 fatty acids, and lean protein. Feel your health blossom with every bite! Another great recipe from PositScience.

Oatmeal is always a good choice for breakfast, brunch or anytime you need a warm bowl of health "comfort food". Avoid loading it up with refined sugars by adding fruit, fresh or dried, or honey to sweeten it up.

3 1/2 cups lowfat or skim milk

1 teas cinnamon

2 cups oats (no quick oats)

1 cup dried unsweetened cherries, cranberries, blueberries, or raisins

2/3 cup slivered almonds

maple syrup or honey to taste

Heat milk and cinnamon in a saucepan just until boiling. Add oats and cook, stirring, over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency, about 5 minutes. Add fruit and stir. Turn off heat, cover and let set for 5 minutes. Spoon into serving bowls and top with almonds. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey to taste.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

From the Staff and Volunteers

of the Northern Michigan Region!

Spinach Scramble

2011-02-12T10:30:00.000-05:00

Antioxidants, folic acid, lean protein, and omega 3 fatty acids are all combined in this tasty breakfast or brunch scramble. Another recipe from PositScience.

6 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1 teas salt

1/4 teas pepper

2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

1 Tbsp + 2 teas olive oil, divided

4 -5 green onions, finely chopped

Whisk eggs, milk, salt & pepper in a mixing bowl. Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a non-stick saute pan over medium-high heat. Add spinach and cook 2-3 minutes, tossing to wilt. Remove spinach from pan and set aside. Turn heat down to medium. In the same pan, add remaining 2 teas oil and heat. Add eggs and cook, scraping bottom and sides, folding them over continuously until cooked through. Turn off heat, stir in spinach and green onions, serve with whole wheat toast.

Medicare's Annual Wellness Visit

2011-02-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

Under the Affordable Care Act (the health care reform law), Medicare will now pay for an annual wellness visit, which will include the creation of a personalized prevention plan and detection of possible cognitive impairment. This new benefit began on January 1, 2011.

For more information about who is eligible, what to expect, and how to prepare, visit the Alzheimer's Webpage here.

Espresso Brownie Cake

2011-02-08T10:30:00.000-05:00

There has been some research to support that drinking coffee may be beneficial for staving off the onset of Alzheimer's. That research is not conclusive, but it gives coffee drinkers one more reason to have a cup! For the non-coffee drinkers out there, here is a sweet way to slip a little coffee into your diet while adding beneficial antioxidants.

1 cup flour

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter

1/2 cup strong coffee

3 Tbsp cocoa powder

1/4 cup buttermilk

1 egg

1/2 teas baking soda

1 teas vanilla

1/2 teas cinnamon

1 cup chopped dark chocolate

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Spray 8" or 9" square pan with oil. Combine flour and sugar in mixing bowl. Heat butter, coffee, and cocoa in a saucepan, bring to a boil. Pour hot mixture over flour mixture and stir well. Add buttermilk, egg, baking soda, vanilla, cinnamon and chopped chocolate. Mix well. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 20 - 25 minutes. Let cool, sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.

Potato Cauliflower Mash

2011-02-04T10:30:00.001-05:00

Enjoy the goodness of mashed potatoes with added nutrition of cauliflower added. This recipe includes complex carbohydrates and omega 3 fatty acids, both essential to overall good health. This is another recipe from PositScience.

3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 head cauliflower, trimmed and cut into chunks
4 green onions, finely chopped
1/2 cup butter, cut into small pieces
1 cup light sour cream
salt & pepper to taste
milk as needed for consistency

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add potatoes and boil for 15 minutes. Add cauliflower and boild another 5 - 7 minutes, until soft enough to mash, drain. Add butter and begin mashing. Add sour cream, green onions, salt & pepper to taste. Continue mashing until smooth, if needed, add milk.

Meeting with Senator John Moolenaar

2011-02-02T10:30:00.000-05:00

Pegg Thomas, Alpena Office Coordinator, had an opportunity to speak with new State Senator John Moolenaar on January 31st while he was in Alpena. Senator Moolenaar represents the counties of Alcona, Alpena, Crawford, Iosco, Montmorency, Ogemaw, Oscoda and Otsego within our Northern Region. He is the Vice Chair of the Appropriations Committee.

Money is tight all across the state, including within the government, spending what we have wisely is more important than ever. One wise choice is to support an organization that helps people provide high quality care at home for their loved ones with dementia as long as possible. Senator Moolenaar is willing to listen and we need to reach out to him with our concerns and with our stories.

Please consider e-mailing Senator Moolenaar, or calling him at 517.373.7946, concerning support for the Alzheimer's Association here in Northern Michigan. We currently receive no funding or support from the state since the Healthy Michigan Fund monies were cancelled in 2009.

A Tour of Italy

2011-01-31T09:34:00.002-05:00

The Northern Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association
in partnership with Tuscan Bistro
is excited to offer:

“A Tour of Italy”
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Beginning at 6:00 pm
Tuscan Bistro
12930 SW Bay Shore Dr
Traverse City, MI 49684

Cost for the evening is $40.00 per person,

there is a 50 seat limit, reservation available.

Guest will experience a four course menu with wine pairings.

In addition, guests can enjoy other wines and drinks from the cash bar.
To make your reservation please contact

the Tuscan Bistro at 231- 922-7795.

Turkey with Cranberry Slaw Sandwich

2011-01-29T10:30:00.004-05:00

Make yourself a Memory Sandwich

Turkey with Cranberry Slaw

Cranberries are packed with antioxidants which can help improve memory. They also go great with turkey!

Ingredients:

whole grain bread
1 cup shredded turkey
½ cup shredded red or white cabbage
¼ cup shredded carrot
A few pecans, finely chopped
1 tbs finely chopped cilantro
2 tbs buttermilk
2 tbs mayo
2 tbs dried cranberries

Mix together everything but the turkey. Layer turkey on bread, top with slaw.

Recipe from: AskMen.com

WVU finds promising treatment for Alzheimer's

2011-01-27T10:30:00.001-05:00

There are studies going on in many countries to find better treatments and ultimately "the cure" for Alzheimer's. This one is looking at the disease in a different way. The article in interesting and worth reading. It's too soon to get excited about it, but it's good to know that researchers are thinking outside the box and working dilgently to end Alzheimer's.

Your contributions to the Alzheimer's Association help this work to continue!

Hoppin' John

2011-01-25T10:30:00.000-05:00

Hoppin' John is a traditional Southern dish. This recipe from PositScience includes both antioxidants and folic acid, known to promote brain health.

5 slices of smoky bacon, chopped into small pieces

1 small onion, chopped

1 small red pepper, chopped into 1/4" squares

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups cooked brown rice

1 can (15 oz) black-eyed peas, drained & rinsed

1/2 teas dry mustard

1/4 teas Worcestershire Sauce

Salt, pepper and cayenne to taste

Cook bacon in large saucepan until crispy. Add onion, pepper, and garlic. Cook 3 - 5 minutes, until vegetables are soft, add rice, black-eyed peas, dry mustard, and Worcestershire Sauce. Cook and stir for 5 minutes. Season to taste. Cook and stir another 10 minutes. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Heart Healthy Honey Glazed Sweet Potatoes

2011-01-24T10:30:00.000-05:00

l/4 cup water
2 tblsp brown sugar
2 tblsp honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds sweet potatoes (4 large) peeled and cut into wedges

Directions: Preheat oven to 375 F. Lightly coat a 9x13 baking pan with cooking spray. In a small bowl whisk water, brown sugar, honey and olive oil. Place a single layer of sweet potatoes in the pan and pour the sauce over them to coat. Cover and bake until tender (about 45 min.) Turn them once or twice to coat. When tender, remove the cover and continue to bake for about 15 more minutes.

(Baking is the preferred way to cook since boiling leaches out vitamins and minerals.)
Submitted by Rosalie Shepherd to alz.org

New York Times Article

2011-01-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

The New York Times published a very good article on keeping a person with dementia happy and content. The article showcases a nursing facility, but many of the suggestions made can easily be adopted for a home environment. A long article, three pages on-line, it's worth the time to read. Here is one excerpt:

For behavior management, Beatitudes plumbs residents’ biographies, soothing one woman, Ruth Ann Clapper, by dabbing on White Shoulders perfume, which her biographical survey indicated she had worn before becoming ill. Food became available constantly, a canny move, Ms. Dougherty said, because people with dementia might be “too distracted” to eat during group mealtimes, and later “be acting out when what they actually need is food.”

Realizing that nutritious, low-salt, low-fat, doctor-recommended foods might actually discourage people from eating, Ms. Alonzo began carrying chocolate in her pocket. “For God’s sake,” Ms. Mullan said, “if you like bacon, you can have bacon here.”

Comforting food improves behavior and mood because it “sends messages they can still understand: ‘it feels good, therefore I must be in a place where I’m loved,’ ” Ms. Dougherty said.

Raffle Tickets - Help Support the GMC

2011-01-12T10:00:00.001-05:00

The Greater Michigan Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association is holding a cash prize raffle, the drawing will be held on Friday, April 15th. All sold tickets must be turned in no later than Monday, April 11, 2011 to be included in the drawing.

There will be 6 winners!

There are 2 ways to win!

Three $500 winners will be drawn and three $200 prizes awarded
(The $200 prizes will be awarded to those
people who sold the winning tickets.)

Tickets are available at both office locations and sell for $5.00 each.

To increase your chances of winning, along with helping the Greater Michigan Chapter, you can volunteer sell tickets. Questions? Call either office, phone numbers to the right.

Alzheimer's Association
526 W Chisholm Street
Alpena, MI 49707
or
Alzheimer's Association
921 11th Street, Suite 1W
Traverse City, MI 49864

President Obama Signs NAPA

2011-01-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

“The Alzheimer’s Association is pleased that a much needed plan will now be put into place to address the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, currently the sixth-leading cause of death in this country. In fact, among the 10 leading causes of death, it is by far the fastest growing — increasing more than 50 percent from 2000 to 2007,” said Harry Johns, Alzheimer’s Association president and CEO. “Given the devastation experienced by millions of families because of this disease and the staggering economic costs, particularly to Medicare and Medicaid, we must have an effective strategy now. The fact that Alzheimer’s is the only one of the top 10 causes of death without a way to prevent, cure or even slow it underscores the critical need for the swift, aggressive implementation of this legislation."
Read more HERE.

Medic Alert + Safe Return Special Price for January

2011-01-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

Our gift to you comes AFTER the rush of the holiday season, in the form of offering $10 off (a 20% discount) on MedicAlert + Safe Return enrollment for individuals with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Take this opportunity to try the program out and let us provide our lifesaving service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to you and your family.

Over the past year, we responded to thousands of calls and relayed vital medical information to emergency responders on behalf of our members, thereby helping responders to provide safe and effective care in a matter of seconds and ensuring the safe return of our members with their loved ones.

Please enroll your loved one today and enjoy the peace of mind associated with being with family and friends during this holiday season. During this special limited time offer, you can enroll your loved one for only $39.95, which includes a MedicAlert medical ID! (Regularly priced at $49.95.)

This special won’t last long, so enroll your loved one today!* Click here to sign up on-line.

Alzheimer's Rose Bowl Parade Float

2011-01-03T10:27:00.003-05:00

For those who missed it, here is the Alzheimer's float which won the President's Award for 2011. Thank you to Pfizer who collaborated to make this float happen. Awareness is key to reaching people with Alzheimer's, their families, and to secure funding for research.

Welcome 2011!

2010-12-29T09:25:00.005-05:00

From the Staff and Volunteers

of the Northern Michigan Region
we want to wish you all a

May 2011 be the year we find the cure!

(offices will be closed on Dec 30 & 31)

From the Staff and Volunteers:

2010-12-22T08:56:00.005-05:00

Merry Christmas

and Happy New Year

See you in 2011!

(Offices will be closed Dec 24, Dec 27, Dec 30, & Dec 31.)

National Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA) Update

2010-12-15T13:57:00.003-05:00

On December 15, 2010, the National Alzheimer’s Project Act was passed unanimously by the House of Representatives. It is now on the way to the White House for the President’s signature. This is a major victory for the Alzheimer’s Association and, once enacted, NAPA will create a national strategic plan to address and overcome the rapidly escalating crisis of Alzheimer’s.

By 2050 nearly 16 million Americans will have Alzheimer’s, yet there is no national plan to deal with this looming crisis. The National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) would establish an inter-agency advisory council to address the government’s efforts on Alzheimer’s research, care, institutional services, and home- and community-based programs.

Many other countries have developed or are developing plans, the United States is lagging behind these nations: Australia, South Korea, Norway, France, England, Scotland, India, Malta, Cyprus, and Wales.

Fill out this form on-line to urge President Obama to sign this legislation!

Tell Congress to Pass the National Alzheimer's Project Act (N.A.P.A.)

2010-12-10T16:10:00.002-05:00

The Senate unanimously voted in favor of the National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA), which now goes to the House. Urgent action is needed to ensure that NAPA passes this year! Make your voice heard by sending a message to your Representative.

Click to Contact Your Representative

New Council Member - Eric Winkelman

2010-12-08T15:04:00.001-05:00

The Northern Michigan Region of the Alzheimer’s Association is pleased and honored to announce our new Regional Council member, Eric Winkelman. Eric has been a resident of Leelanau County since 1990. He has been involved with numerous activities to preserve the beauty of Leelanau County from development.

Eric’s life has been personally touched by the effects of Alzheimer’s Disease, beginning with the loss of his father in 1979 and his mother in 2003, who both passed away due to complications of the disease. More recently, Eric lost his 64 year old step-brother, also to Alzheimer’s Disease.

Eric’s late father’s charitable Southeast Michigan foundation has been very supportive, of the Alzheimer’s Association mission “to eliminate Alzheimer's Disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected…” and to one day find a cure.

He and his wife Barbara, have three sons, and one granddaughter, and spend the vast majority of their time in Glen Arbor, Michigan.

Pool Tournament & Chili Cook Off

2010-11-29T11:33:00.009-05:00

Benefit
Pool Tournament

& Chili Cook Off

We're looking for pool players, good cooks,
and hungry judges to join us!

Saturday, Dec. 11th
Wagon Wheel Bar - Ossineke, MI
beginning at noon

Pool Information:
Pool teams of two, one guy and one gal, can enter the competition. Cost to enter is $20/person or $40/team. Envelopes are available at The Wagon Wheel Bar and the Alzheimer's Association to collect donations to cover the entry fee. Come have a good time and support a worthy cause!

Chili Cook Off Information:
Bring your best pot of chili in a crockpot to enter. Judging will begin shortly after noon. "Judges" will purchase a bowl and ticket for $2.00. Samples may be tasted from the various entries. To vote, drop the ticket in the can near your favorite chili and enjoy a bowlful! "Judges" may purchase as many bowls as they like. The winner of the cook off will be the one with the most tickets.

To round out the day:
Throughout the day there will be 50/50 raffles, prizes, small item raffles, and a live auction. Join us for the FUN, the FOOD, and support the FAMILIES in Northern Michigan dealing with Alzheimer's Disease.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T09:15:00.005-05:00

The staff and volunteers of the
Northern Michigan Region
would like to wish you a

We are thankful for each and every one of you
who supports our association and enables us to
meet the needs of families in Northern Michigan.
We couldn't do it without YOU!

Welcome New Council Members

2010-11-22T15:42:00.008-05:00

Welcome

our new

Northern
Michigan
Regional
Council
Members

Aaron Simon

and
Kelli Sefton

The Northern Michigan Region of the Alzheimer’s Association is pleased and honored to announce two new Regional Council members, Kelli Sefton and Aaron Simon.

Kelli and her family have lived in the Traverse City area for the last eight years; previously they lived in the Alpena area. Both she and her husband Rick own the Traverse City Wendy’s Restaurant on Division and the Wendy’s Restaurant in Petoskey. Kelli is currently serving on the Swingshift and the Stars committee for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Aaron Simon and his family also live in Traverse City. Aaron and his wife Erin are owners of Senior Helpers of Northern Michigan. He is a member of the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce, BASA, and the Traverse Area Association of Realtors Committee on aging in place.

What Can Your Church Do?

2010-11-12T10:00:00.001-05:00

We are blessed with over 700 churches in the Northern Michigan Region. This area of our state was originally settled by many ethnic groups who brought their religious traditions with them. And today, their descendants carry on their faith and continue to meet from shore to shore.

The Alzheimer's Association welcomes the opportunity to meet with people of all faiths and talk about Alzheimer's Disease, the symptoms, current research, staying healthy, and other related topics. We find a large concentration of our elderly in the pews and chairs of local churches and they need to know what we have to share.

What can your church do to help educate people about Alzheimer's Disease? Call one of our offices and invite a speaker to come and address your members and guests. We are very flexible on times and dates. There is no cost for this service, but a free will offering or a donation to help defray the cost of mileage is always appreciated.

What can your church do to help keep our presence as vibrant and accessible as it is today for families dealing with Alzheimer's Disease? If every church in our region would give a $100 gift of support to the Northern Michigan Region, it would make up our projected giving shortfall for 2010/2011 and secure our ability to provide vital work in our communities.

What can you do, dear reader? Present these ideas to your church board, elders, deacons, women's groups, or pastor. Thank you!

The Shriver Report

2010-11-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

"A Woman‘s Nation Takes on Alzheimer's" sounds the alarm for Americans—women, men, government leaders, corporations, nonproﬁts, churches and the press—to understand that almost a third of Americans have a family member with Alzheimer's and that women are effectively a gender under siege by this disease. Other reports on Alzheimer's exist. But this one—backed by an extensive, scientiﬁc poll, buttressed by in-depth chapters by experts and salted with dozens of poignant, revealing essays and original photography commissioned exclusively for this report—is the ﬁrst to underscore the impact of the disease on women and how that impact is compounded by the increased risk women have of developing the disease. Learn more here.

Where Should I Give and Why?

2010-11-05T10:00:00.001-04:00

It seems like everyone is asking for your donation dollars this year. And maybe everyone is! Times are hard in Northern Michigan and dollars are fewer and farther between than we've seen in a long time. The reasons for giving, however, have not changed. People are in need all across our great state, our nation, and our world.

We receive many calls at our offices in Alpena and Traverse City asking about how our donation dollars are spent. The short-hand way to describe it is this:

1) All money collected by the local offices is split 70/30 with the National Association. We keep 70% of each dollar right here in Northern Michigan. The remaining money is split 15% and 15% to research and awareness at the national level.

2) All money collected by the National Office is split 30/70 with Northern Michigan receiving 30% to further the work here in our area.

The best way to keep more of your donation dollars in Northern Michigan is to donate through one of our local offices. You can call either office to request a donation envelope at any time. The phone numbers are listed to the right. Thank you, your donations of any amount do make a difference!

Happy Hour Hustle

2010-11-04T11:22:00.002-04:00

Monday, November 15^th, the Cambria Suites and TC Dance Star Heather Daniels will host a “Happy Hour Hustle” at Cambria Suites from 5 – 7 p.m. Heather invites everyone to “get their groove on” as she teaches the Hustle. Appetizers and a happy hour cash bar will be available. There is no entrance fee, donations are accepted and support the Alzheimer’s Association.

All proceeds from the Happy Hour Hustle will be used towards programs and services for the caregivers and over 13,000 individuals affected by Alzheimer’s Disease in Northern Michigan. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24 hour toll-free helpline, educational programs, support groups, our national Safe Return program, a resource center and lending library. For more information, please contact 231.929.3804.

What is the National Alzheimer's Project Act?

2010-11-02T10:00:00.004-04:00

Here is the official summary:

National Alzheimer's Project Act - Establishes in the Office of the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) the Office of the National Alzheimer's Project to:

(1) accelerate the development of treatments that would prevent, halt, or reverse the course of Alzheimer's;
(2) create and maintain an integrated national plan to overcome Alzheimer's;
(3) help to coordinate the health care and treatment of citizens with Alzheimer's;
(4) ensure the inclusion of ethnic and racial populations that are at higher risk for Alzheimer's or that are least likely to receive care in clinical, research, and service efforts with the purpose of decreasing health disparities;
(5) coordinate with international bodies to integrate and inform the fight against Alzheimer's globally; and
(6) provide information and coordination of Alzheimer's research and services across all federal agencies. Sets forth the duties of the Director of the Office, including to use discretionary authority to evaluate all federal programs concerning Alzheimer's. Establishes in the Office an Advisory Council on Alzheimer's Research and Treatment.

The National Alzheimer's Project Act (H.R. 4689 / S. 3036) now has 33 Senate co-sponsors and 106 House co-sponsors. Send your legislators a letter requesting that they push to enact NAPA when they return to Washington after the elections.

Senator Carl Levin
Senator Debbie Stabenow
Find your local Representative here.

Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch™

2010-10-29T10:00:00.002-04:00

Doing something proactive is a great way to focus energy away from the despair that can come from living with a life changing disease. What can we, as family members, caregivers, and people in the early stages of Alzheimer's do to help make a difference? How can we advance the battle against this disease? What can one person do?

The Alzheimer’s Association has launched TrialMatch, which connects people with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family members, doctors, and healthy volunteers with Alzheimer’s clinical trials nearby that are recruiting volunteers.

Find out more at alz.org/trialmatch. Get proactive and help us help others in the future.

Two Great Conferences

2010-10-25T13:47:00.002-04:00

The Greater Michigan Chapter is honoring National Alzheimer's Disease Month in November by offering two great conferences. Both will be held on Tuesday, November 16th, at Wayne State University - Oakland Center, in Farmington, Michigan.

Alzheimer's Disease: A Professional Approach to a Personal Disease
This conference offers continuing education credits and contact hours for social workers and nurses as they learn more about Alzheimer's. Cost for this event is $35.00 and includes a continental breakfast. Pre-registration is required. For more details, click on the title.

Alzheimer's... What Every Caregiver Should Know
This conference is set up to help the in-home caregiver learn how to better care for their loved one and themselves as they journey through the caregiving experience. This is a FREE event, a box lunch will be served. For more details, click on the title.

Put it in Writing

2010-10-19T11:53:00.005-04:00

Come learn what you need to know to safeguard your health care wishes. This presentation will cover issues concerning power of attorney, guardianship, and other things you need to know. Learn how and where to make your wishes known concerning your future health care. This open and free to the public.

Where: Alpena Public Library Conference Room
When: Friday, Oct 22nd from 1:00pm - 2:30pm

Put on by the Alzheimer's Association in conjunction with the Northeast Michigan Community Foundation.

(Please note: There was a misprint in the Alpena News, the correct date is Friday, Oct. 22nd.)

Alzheimer's Disease - 6th Leading Cause of Death in the U.S.

2010-10-15T09:32:00.004-04:00

According to a recently released CDC report, Alzheimer's Disease is now the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. The breakdown looks like this:

1) Heart Disease - 616,067
2) Cancer (all types) - 562,875
3) Stroke - 135,952
4) Lung Diseases (all types) - 127,924
5) Accidental Deaths - 123,706
6) Alzheimer's Disease - 74,632
7) Diabetes - 71,382
8) Flu & Pneumonia - 52,717
9) Kidney Disease - 46,448
10) Septicemia - 34,828
11) Suicide - 34,598
12) Liver Disease (all types) - 29,165
13) High Blood Pressure - 23,965
14) Parkinson's Disease - 20,058
15) Homicide - 18,361

The need for funding and research has never been greater. The expected rise in the incidence of Alzheimer's with the aging of the Baby Boomers is a true health crisis. Contacting our representatives in Washington is a great way to help.

Senator Carl Levin
Senator Debbie Stabenow
Find your local Representative here.

Spaghetti Dinner - Benefit for Alzheimer's

2010-10-05T15:31:00.005-04:00

Attention Gaylord!

Saturday, October 16
5:00 - 7:30pm
St. Mary Catherdral Parish Hall in Gaylord

Sponsored by:
The Otsego Haus Memory Walk Team
Suggested donation $5.00 per person

Entertain by:
Margaret Madagame

Teen In Action on World Alzheimer's Day

2010-09-22T09:53:00.001-04:00

TEENS IN ACTION were on the MOVE in recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day. TEENS dressed in their purple Memory Walk shirts distributed Purple Mardi Gras beads to staff and students, upon arrival to school, Tuesday morning. A brief presentation was given to promote awareness about Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as to provide information on World Alzheimer’s Day and the significance of wearing the purple beads. To quote Lexi Vanbrocklin, one of the TEENS, “The beads went great!! A lot of people took them and wore them all day long!” GREAT JOB TEENS!!!

Alzheimer's Myth #8

2010-09-02T10:00:00.001-04:00

There are treatments available to stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease

Reality: At this time, there is no treatment to cure, delay or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease. FDA-approved drugs temporarily slow worsening of symptoms for about 6 to 12 months, on average, for about half of the individuals who take them.

Purple Cookie Day!

2010-08-30T16:14:00.010-04:00

Awareness has never been so sweet! In celebration of World Alzheimer's Day 2010, the Alzheimer's Association is partnering with E-Z Way Store in Alpena and selling purple frosted sugar cookies.
Cookie orders must be received by Friday, September 17th. Order forms are available at the Alzheimer's office (526 W Chisholm) and E-Z Way Store (2060 M-32 West). Or e-mail the office for a form. Cookies are $5.00/dozen and can be picked up at E-Z Way Store on Tuesday, September 21, between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm.

We are especially targeting businesses this year, asking employers to purchase cookies for their employees. In addition to providing a sweet treat, each box of cookies will include our office contact information. People working 9-5 often don't have time to search us out. This is one sweet way we can find them. Please recommend our cookies to any business or employer you know!

Alzheimer's Myth #7

2010-08-27T16:49:00.001-04:00

Silver dental fillings increase risk of Alzheimer's disease

Reality: According to the best available scientific evidence, there is no relationship between silver dental fillings and Alzheimer's. The concern that there could be a link arose because "silver" fillings are made of an amalgam (mixture) that typically contains about 50 percent mercury, 35 percent silver and 15 percent tin. Mercury is a heavy metal that, in certain forms, is know to be toxic to the brain and other organs.

Many scientists consider the studies below compelling evidence that dental amalgam is not a major risk factor for Alzheimer's. Public health agencies, including the FDA, the U.S. Public Health Service and the World Health Organization, endorse the continued use of amalgam as safe, strong, inexpensive material for dental restorations.

March 1991, the Dental Devices Panel of the FDA concluded there was no current evidence that amalgam poses any danger.
National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 1991 funded a study at the University of Kentucky to investigate the relationship between amalgam fillings and Alzheimer's. Analysis by University statisticians revealed no significant association between silver fillings and Alzheimer's. The abstract for this study is posted on the Journal of the American Dental Association Web site.
October 30, 2003, a New England Journal of Medicine article concluded that current evidence shows no connection between mercury-containing dental fillings and Alzheimer's or other neurological diseases. The abstract for this study is posted on the New England Journal of Medicine Web site.

Alzheimer's Myth #6

2010-08-23T10:00:00.002-04:00

Flu shots increase risk of Alzheimer’s disease

Reality: A theory linking flu shots to a greatly increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease has been proposed by a U.S. doctor whose license was suspended by the South Carolina Board of Medical Examiners. Several mainstream studies link flu shots and other vaccinations to a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease and overall better health.

A Nov. 27, 2001, Canadian Medical Journal report suggests older adults who were vaccinated against diphtheria or tetanus, polio, and influenza seemed to have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those not receiving these vaccinations. The full text of this report is posted on the journal’s Web site.
A report in the Nov. 3, 2004, JAMA found that annual flu shots for older adults were associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes. The abstract of that report is posted on PubMed.

Teens In Action on a Friday Night!

2010-08-17T16:02:00.010-04:00

TEENS IN ACTION joined street musicians, magicians, local artists, and food vendors on Front Street in Traverse City, August 13, for Friday Night Live!

This great TC tradition is held every Friday night for six Fridays in a row, beginning in late July. Each Friday Night Live has a theme of its own. Our Friday Night the theme was "Dancing In the Streets"!

This fit perfectly when SwingShift & the Stars dancer Heather Daniels joined us to promote the Association, Memory Walk, and SwingShift.

The TEENS had a great time with face and hair painting!! Through donations they raised $142.00 towards their Memory Walk Team Goal of $1,000.00.

You can help these TEENS reach their goal. Donate on-line to their Memory Walk team. Thank you for your support!

Alzheimer's Myth #5

2010-08-17T10:00:00.002-04:00

Aspartame causes memory loss.

Reality: This artificial sweetener, marketed under such brand names as Nutrasweet and Equal, was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in all foods and beverages in 1996. Since approval, concerns about aspartame's health effects have been raised.

According to the FDA, as of May 2006, the agency had not been presented with any scientific evidence that would lead to change its conclusions on the safety of aspartame for most people. The agency says its conclusions are based on more than 100 laboratory and clinical studies. Read the May 2006 FDA statement about aspartame.

Alzheimer's Myth #4

2010-08-12T10:00:00.001-04:00

Drinking out of aluminum cans or cooking in aluminum pots and pans can lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

Reality: During the 1960s and 1970s, aluminum emerged as a possible suspect in Alzheimer’s. This suspicion led to concern about exposure to aluminum through everyday sources such as pots and pans, beverage cans, antacids and antiperspirants. Since then, studies have failed to confirm any role for aluminum in causing Alzheimer’s. Experts today focus on other areas of research, and few believe that everyday sources of aluminum pose any threat.

Alzheimer's Myth #3

2010-08-09T10:00:00.002-04:00

Only older people can get Alzheimer's

Reality: Alzheimer's can strike people in their 30s, 40s and even 50s. This is called younger-onset Alzheimer's. It is estimated that there are as many as 5.3 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. This includes 5.1 million people age 65 and over and 200,000 people under age 65 with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease.