Innovative approach connects those with memory loss to services
Janie Bonham, RN helps participants create individualized plans
A trend among contacts to the Alzheimer’s Association Mid-Missouri Chapter is clear - those with early stage memory loss are not accessing beneficial services.
“110,000 Missourians have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Others have noticed memory loss but have not yet sought a diagnosis or explanation. We should have an influx of people in the early stages contacting the Alzheimer's Association for referrals, information and services,” said Joetta Coen, Program Director for the Alzheimer’s Association Mid-Missouri Chapter and one of the original creators of the project. “Persons with early stage memory loss are not accessing services and therefore not benefiting from all that’s available.” This realization prompted the Alzheimer's Association to pursue funds for Project LEARN.
Project LEARN is an opportunity for those with early stage memory loss to work with an Alzheimer’s Association care consultant to create individualized plans to access education, build coping skills and address future planning needs. Persons with early stage memory loss and their families will receive ongoing support at least every other month for a year or more. Janie Bonham, RN is the Project LEARN Care Consultant.
“Our goal is to reach people with memory loss to help them create a plan that addresses individual needs. If the physician’s assessment results in a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia, we are prepared to go from there,” said Bonham. “Project LEARN is about connecting people with education and services early in the disease process so that those with memory loss can really benefit.”
Project LEARN starts with either an inquiry through the Alzheimer’s Association Helpline (800.272.3900) or a referral from community partners in healthcare. “We are partnering with hospitals, health departments, medical clinics and home health agencies throughout our 29 counties to ensure that those with early stage memory loss are referred to Project LEARN,” said Ashley Burden, Communications Coordinator. “We’ve also begun a pilot program with Central Missouri Area Agency on Aging (CMAAA). CMAAA care coordinators are using new tools to assess changes in individuals’ memory and if appropriate, can then refer them to Project LEARN.”
Project LEARN is funded by a grant from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and the U.S. Administration on Aging to demonstrate an innovative approach in delivering services to people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Missouri is one of 22 states to receive a share of $17 million in federal innovation grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Do you have memory problems? Did you recently receive a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease? Email Janie today for a care consultation or call 573.443.8665.
Watch Janie on KOMU's Pepper and Friends
