Dear Friends of the Chapter:
Alzheimer's, often referred to as a "journey" or "the long road," progresses in stages. During each stage new challenges emerge, both for the person with the disease and their family members. While we cannot stop this progression, we can offer a promise: to provide resources, support, education and compassion during every phase of this long and devastating illness.
In the past year, we affirmed this promise through the development of two groundbreaking initiatives: the opening of New York City's first Early Stage Center and the launch of a palliative care project for people with late stage dementia. Both initiatives – working on opposite ends of the dementia spectrum – address the need for quality dementia care.
For our clients in the earliest stages of the disease, we have designed a space tailored specifically to their needs. Having access to a supportive environment with a network of care provides reassurance that they do not have to face their diagnosis alone. With the comforting guidance of our professional staff, clients are introduced to personal counseling, support groups, exercises to stimulate mental activity and a reprieve from the daily stress of living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) or early dementia. Our services also extend to those caring for someone who has recently been diagnosed, because we know that caregiving is not a responsibility that can or should be undertaken alone.
Another of our leading-edge initiatives focuses on improving the quality of life for individuals with late stage dementia through a palliative care approach. Collaborating with select New York City nursing homes and their hospice partners, this pilot program is working to develop a model of comfort care for residential care facilities. In the months ahead we will focus on fully integrating palliative care into our work at the Chapter, while continuing to make this approach more accessible for persons with late stage dementia throughout New York City in every setting.
It is our 35 years of expertise and commitment to person-centered care that sets us apart. And it is your financial support that allows us to make revolutionary advancements in the field of dementia care. While we continue to expand our programs and services to keep pace with the growing prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, our devotion to quality remains unchanged.
As we end the year, we can take great pride in what we have accomplished together. Our 2013 Year-End Campaign Goal of $500,000 is achievable only with your ongoing support. Your generosity ensures that we can continue to develop innovative programming and sustain and grow our services so that we are providing the best in dementia care for caregivers and persons with dementia who rely upon us during one of the most difficult times in their lives. Please be generous. Thank you.
With best wishes for a peaceful and productive new year.
Sincerely,
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