Early-Stage programs are designed for individuals to participate with a network of families who are experiencing a similar journey in a friendly and safe environment. In the early stages, individuals retain the ability to participate in daily activities and give-and-take dialogue.
Registration through the Alzheimer’s Association is required to attend all early-stage programs.
Screening is required prior to attending most of the groups and individuals must have a diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer's disease or related dementia. Care partners are encouraged to attend.
Please call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 to connect with your local program manager and find out whether these programs are right for you.
I Have Alzheimer’s
A person living with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia may have feelings of isolation and uncertainty. The Alzheimer’s Association created "I Have Alzheimer’s" in a special section of alz.org to help empower those living in the early stages of the disease.
Learning Together
Learning Together is available in Fort Wayne and Indianapolis. It is a four-week, psycho-educational program for those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s or another dementia and one care partner. The program is facilitated by Alzheimer’s Association staff and volunteers. It provides information, emotional support and socialization among peers within a safe, accepting atmosphere. The early-stage participant must have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia, understand that they have the disease and be able to talk about what it means for them. Both parties must desire to attend the program. This program is offered periodically throughout the year.
Meet Me at IMA / Meet Me at FWMoA
In partnership with Newfields/Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), Fort Wayne Museum of Art (FWMoA) and sponsored by the Klapper Family Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter’s unique program provides an opportunity for early-stage individuals to participate in a facilitated conversation of artworks in the IMA and FWMoA collections with their care partner, family, or friends. The art conversation is facilitated by trained docents. The IMA program takes place on the 4th Tuesday of the month, and the FWMoA program takes place the 3rd Tuesday of each month.
Community Theatre
Early-stage participants are invited to attend dress rehearsal performances for upcoming shows at the following community theatres. Tickets are limited for all performances and advanced registration is required.
- Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre in Carmel
- Mud Creek Players in Indianapolis
- Dance Kaleidoscrope
Musical Moments
The Alzheimer’s Association Greater Indiana Chapter offers participants the opportunity to engage through music at a variety of venues, including Hilbert Circle Theatre, The Center for Performing Arts in Carmel, and various parks. Tickets are limited and advanced registration for each performance is required..
Perfect Harmony
Join us at The Center for the Performing Arts in Carmel as we go back in time by exploring the origins of many of our most beloved songs. We will be guided by a docent through an interactive program and engage in music and discussion about songs that were written and recorded by some of the most cherished artists of all time.
Memory Cafe
This activity-based program offers opportunities for people with Alzheimer’s to talk and laugh with friends. Activities include games, crafts, conversation and group quizzes - with the goal to have fun and enjoy the company of others. This program is offered in Fort Wayne once a month and in Indianapolis every two months.