Project Summary

With funding from an Administration on Aging grant, Colorado State University Institute of Applied Prevention Research and the Alzheimer’s Association Colorado Chapter has launched a study focused on the delivery of services to families facing early stage dementia and create a guide for others to establish and provide effective services.  The project goal is to demonstrate positive results for people with early stage dementia and their care partners from participation in a program of counseling, training, support and socialization.

People with early stage Alzheimer’s and their care partners are encouraged to enroll together. However, participants may enroll individually if a partner is not available.  Enrollees may choose full participation in the services below, or enroll in a Control group with selected programs they choose.  All applicants will be interviewed to determine eligibility.

Description of the Study

• Provide Alzheimer’s Association care consultation to people with early stage dementia and their care partners to assist with future planning
• Enrollment in the Early Stage Strategies series education program (6 contact hours).
• Referral to Early Stage Support groups
• Provide supportive social and intellectual activities selected by participants
• Evaluate and report on the results
• Information about participants’ use of Alzheimer’s Association early stage services and about their well being will be gathered in an initial assessment and then once every three months

Expected Results of Participating in the Study

• Increased knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease
• Recognition of the need for future planning
• Enhanced emotional well being including:
  o An improvement in effectiveness as a care partner
  o Reduction in isolation and depression
  o Increased participation in support and activity programs 

At the end of the two year study, Paul Bell, PhD, Colorado State University Institute of Applied Prevention Research, will produce a key lessons-learned summary, including a manual to guide others in establishing early stage services.

For more information on the project or enrollment process, please contact Cheryl Parrish, VP of Programs at cheryl.parrish@alz.org or 970-472-9798.

Resources for people living with Alzheimer's disease