Early Memory Loss

At first, it is cause for gentle teasing – the misplaced keys and occasional memory lapses. Gradually, the lapses become more frequent and there begins a growing kernel of concern, “Is it Alzheimer’s or is it just standard aging stuff?”

Unfortunately, many people overlook or deny the first symptoms of Alzheimer’s (memory loss, confusion, repetitive speech) and delay diagnoses and treatment. We can help address your growing concerns, enable earlier treatment and empower you and your loved ones to plan for the future, including financial and legal matters.

Our programs are for anyone experiencing memory loss. Call Donna Velarde, MSW at 949.757.3759 for information.
All AAOC services are no cost, low-key and entirely confidential.

Early Memory Loss Support Group

We offer an Early-Stage Memory Loss (EML) group for people in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, their families and caregivers. In a safe accepting setting, they are free to explore their feelings about the challenges and changes they are facing with remembering, decision-making, personal care activities and communication.

Trained facilitators lead participants through a series of informal group discussions, including topics on: an overview of Alzheimer's and related dementias, treatments and research, coping with memory loss, social and family relationships, daily living skills, self-esteem, health considerations, holidays and special occasions, legal and financial planning and planning for the future. During each session, caregivers participate in a separate but like discussion.

Services Available

Family Consultations
Whether you have received a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or are worried about yourself or loved one, we are here to help by providing information and support. Office visits are encouraged, but consultations can also take place by phone.

The goals of early stage consultation include: helping individuals with dementia and their care partner(s) to create a personalized care plan, which may include taking part in our Early Stage Memory Loss Group.

Take Charge - Early Memory Loss Group (EML)*
This forum provides a supportive environment for those affected by memory loss disorders and their caregiver(s) to work with trained professionals who can:

Answer question about early stage and early onset dementia
Provide referrals to services and other supportive programs and information locally, nationally and via the Internet
Provide relevant education materials and event information
Provide information about clinical trials, research and medication updates

Continuation Group
To extend the benefits of this support group beyond the time-limited format of the EML Group, we invite graduates for whom it is appropriate to take part in our Continuation Group. Regular Family Consultations are encouraged to assist members in evaluating and adapting their individualized care plans. This group meets twice monthly, maintaining the same objectives of the EML Group, utilizing the input of current members to guide programming and topic choices.

Questions? Call Donna Velarde, MSW at 949.757.3759 for information.
All AAOC services are no cost, low-key and entirely confidential.

*Funded by (or in part) through a grant from the California Department of Aging of funds from the Federal Older Americans Act, as allocate by the Orange County Board of Supervisors and under contract with the Caregiver Resource Center.

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