Effective immediately, The Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation has changed its name to the Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center. The name of the 31-year old not for profit was changed to more clearly reflect the wide range of programs and services that the center offers to families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia. The Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center Executive Director Victoria (Tori) Cohen and Board Chair Jennifer Cona made the announcement.
“While Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, there are other types of dementia, such as stroke-related or Lewy body dementia that are of equal concern,” explains Tori Cohen. “We don’t want potential participants to feel that we don’t have the programs or services to help them if they don’t have the exact diagnosis of Alzheimer’s. We welcome anyone with a cognitive impairment diagnosis to our programs.”
“The Board of Trustees wholeheartedly supports the name change,” said Jennifer B. Cona, Board Chair. “Over the course of 30 years, the organization has grown dramatically, both in terms of the programs and services we offer and with our move to a larger, centralized location in Westbury two years ago. Unlike organizations that raise money for Alzheimer’s research, the funds we receive through donations and grants go directly to provide Long Island families with critical programs and services. We want to help as many people as we can cope with the challenges of dementia-related illness.”
The Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center offers day programs for people in the early, moderate and late stages of the disease, several support groups, an in-home respite program, Social Saturdays, Brain Fitness Workshops, and physical and occupational therapy. Transportation is also available. Experienced social workers and health professionals provide direct assistance to families, as well as offer additional resources, referrals and guidance, both in person and over the phone.
“Receiving a diagnosis is devastating,” adds Cohen. “In addition to providing a community where families can find hope, comfort and critical services, the Long Island Alzheimer’s & Dementia Center can be your ‘one stop shop,’ with our social workers doing the work of the middle man to help you find practitioners and professionals, from home visit doctors to elder law and real estate attorneys to help you plan for the future.”
“We truly believe that as the number of diagnosed individuals continues to rise, and until there is a cure for Alzheimer’s, utilizing the programs of the center is the best solution for families. We do not turn away anyone with a diagnosis.”