Alzheimer’s Patients Receive Support Through Virtual Therapy Amid Lockdown

The coronavirus outbreak has isolated much of the millions of Alzheimer’s patients throughout the country. The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or AFA has been working very hard to make sure that some of America’s most vulnerable continue to have a support system.

A Connected Community

In an interview with Fox News, Jennifer Reeder, the Director of Educational and Social Services for AFA, she explained that the foundation is currently building a connected community. Ms. Reeder is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.

Using virtual therapeutic programming, Alzheimer’s patients will continue to have a support system in times when physical mobility is difficult because of lockdown measures. Founded in 2002, AFA was established to build a community for families, individuals, and caregivers who are affected by Alzheimer's diseases and other related dementias.

Virtual Programming

According to Ms. Reeder, AFA was established so that families affected by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. She said that because of circumstances brought about by COVID-19, they went from in-person to virtual programming.

The licensed clinical social worker said that virtual programming is something that they are hugely focused on amid the virus pandemic. Reeder said this is “because individuals, families need to be staying at home, and this can be particularly difficult for people living with dementia-related illnesses as well as their caregivers.”

A Great Variation

The virtual programming being offered by AFA comes in many forms. You can choose music, dance, art, and many other kinds of therapy. The classes also feature a broad array of topics like creating paper bouquets to yoga and “disco-funk chair fitness.” Ms. Reeder said that these programs could help seniors, especially those living with dementia-related ailments, fight isolation, and help keep them engaged.

The classes offered are also designed to improve their mood, reduce anxious feelings, and help with caregiver bonding. “We’ve been getting amazing feedback on the classes regarding people with dementia-related illnesses,” said Reeder. She added that it is really helping to minimize feelings of anxiety and depression because now, they would still have something to do. They will also be able to link-up with their caregivers.

For those who have inquiries regarding the programs of AFA, the organization’s toll-free nationwide helpline is 866-232-8484. They are also open seven days a week. Ms. Reeder emphasized that despite the big challenges that the coronavirus pandemic is creating, AFA will not stop providing support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related neurodegenerative ailments. Reeder said they are finding ways to brighten up the day of people. “We also want to make sure people know we’re here as a support system and they are not alone,” Reeder said.