The Alzheimer’s Association Western New York Chapter offers a number of free education programs about dementia and support services for those living with dementia and caregivers all across the region and has a program scheduled in Chautauqua County in January.

Learn more about the differences between Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, symptoms of cognitive impairment and more at Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia. The class will be presented at 6 p.m. in the Anderson-Lee Library at 43 Main St. in Silver Creek on Thursday, Jan. 30. “This program provides an overview of the similarities and differences among various types of dementia and what local resources are available for those living with a diagnosis and their care partners,” says WNY Chapter Program Director Rachel Rotach. “We are delighted to be able to offer these programs free of charge to anyone interested in learning more about us and the disease.”

Pre-registration is strongly encouraged by calling the Chapter office at 626-0600 extension 313 during traditional business hours or 800-272-3900 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Additionally, the Chapter oversees monthly caregiver support group meetings in six locations across the county which allow caregivers to connect with others facing similar challenges and hear advice for overcoming them.

2nd Friday (Jan. 10) at 10 a.m. – St. John’s United Church of Christ, 733 Central Ave. – Dunkirk

4th Thursday (Jan. 23) at 4:30 p.m. – Fredonia Place, 50 Howard St., Fredonia

2nd Tuesday (Jan. 14) at 1 p.m. – Jamestown Area Medical Associates, 15 South Main St., Jamestown (respite services are available by calling 800-272-3900)

3rd Thursday (Jan. 16) at 5:30 p.m. – Fluvanna Community Church at 3363 Fluvanna Ave. in Jamestown

2nd Tuesday (Jan. 14) at 9:30 a.m. – North County Dine-N-Dish: Restaurant location changes monthly. Call Jennifer Ellman at the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging at 753-4781 for updated information.

A community social program, or respite, is also available every month in Westfield. This free program provides relief to those who care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia and offers them some time to refresh and re-charge, while their loved one is engaged in social activities in a safe environment. Westfield United Methodist Church at 101 East Main St. has launched a new respite service on the 2nd Wednesday (Jan. 8) of every month. For more information, call Gail Boardway at (716) 232-4310.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease or dementia and local programs and resources, contact the WNY Chapter office at 626-0600 extension 313 or the Chautauqua County Office for the Aging at 753-4582.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.