#United States #Chicago #Alzheimer's Association #Dementia Support #My ALZ Journey

Alzheimer's Association Launches My ALZ Journey App

The Alzheimer's Association has announced the launch of a groundbreaking mobile application named My ALZ Journey. This application aims specifically to cater to the needs of individuals recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and their care partners. The app was developed based on direct feedback from those living with early-stage dementia, ensuring that it is practical and relevant to users' real-life experiences.

Designed for Support

Navigating a dementia diagnosis can be an exceptionally daunting experience for individuals and their families. Elizabeth Edgerly, Senior Director of Community Programs and Services at the Alzheimer’s Association, emphasizes that “a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and isolating.” My ALZ Journey is designed to alleviate these feelings by offering a wealth of resources and support right at users’ fingertips.

The app features an array of tools including personalized guidance, educational resources, planning tools, interactive activities, and access to local community services. These features aim to empower both individuals and their care partners, fostering an environment of connection and support at a time when it is most needed.

The Importance of Input

Notably, the app's creation involved individuals living with dementia, including those from the Alzheimer’s Association’s National Early Stage Advisory Group (ESAG). Their experiences highlighted the necessity of such a tool. For instance, Brent Beasley, a member of ESAG and an early-stage Alzheimer’s patient, remarked, “Having people living with dementia provide input and feedback into the app’s development helps make it practical and responsive to the real-life needs of diagnosed individuals and their care partners.”

Features of My ALZ Journey

One of the app’s hallmarks is its user-friendly design, which allows for an engaging and straightforward experience. Users will find a home screen that offers a curated pathway with step-by-step guidance tailored to their unique journeys. Furthermore, the app’s comprehensive library provides educational content sourced from alz.org, addressing common questions about Alzheimer’s, caregiving, and future planning.

In addition, the Community section connects users directly with their local Alzheimer’s Association chapter, showcasing nearby support groups, events, and programs tailored for them. The Activity Center is another engaging feature, offering interactive tools, resources, and activities that help users remain active and connected to their care networks.

Addressing Common Concerns

Edgerly added that after receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, families often have a multitude of questions. My ALZ Journey serves as a valuable starting point for obtaining information and connecting users with essential services and resources tailored for the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Its primary goal is to remind families affected by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia that they are not alone in their struggles.

Availability

Individuals interested in utilizing this innovative resource can access My ALZ Journey for free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. For those who wish to learn more about the app or the resources available through the Alzheimer’s Association, additional information can be found at alz.org/MyALZJourney.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is a globally recognized voluntary health organization focused on caring for, supporting, and advancing research related to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Their mission is to enhance the lives of those affected by dementia through advancing research, facilitating early detection, and ensuring quality care and support for those in need. The vision is a world free of Alzheimer's and all other forms of dementia. More information can be found at alz.org or by calling 800.272.3900.