Alzheimer's Association to Host Early Stage/Early Onset Focus Groups

If you have been diagnosed with early stage and/or early onset memory loss, we need your help. 

For many years the Alzheimer’s Association has provided quality programs for professionals, family members, and care partners of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and other, related dementias. 

Now, we need to hear from you.  We recognize the need to expand our programs and services for individuals who have themselves been diagnosed with early onset and/or early stage memory loss.  Our first step in this effort will be to conduct focus groups so that we can develop programs and services that meet your needs.

The focus groups will take place the week of September 8th of 2008 in several communities served by the Greater Illinois Chapter.  If you are unable to participate in a focus group, there will be limited opportunities for individual interviews. 

Please feel free to contact Nicole Batsch, Director of Early Stage Services, directly at (847) 933-2413 with any questions.

Definitions:

Early or Young Onset:  Individuals diagnosed with any type of dementia prior to the age of 65.

Early Stage:  Individuals diagnosed with any type of dementia at any age with mild impairment due to symptoms of the disease process.

Both Early Onset and Early Stage individuals should welcome participation (i.e., no pressure by family members or professionals to participate), must be aware of their diagnosis, and have sufficient language and comprehension skills to participate fully in the focus groups.