Over 100,000 people die of AD annually, and over half of nursing home residents are afflicted with the disease. In Hawaii, an estimated 17,000 people suffer from Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Information about current resources of medical, legal, support services and care facilities is available. Office or Home Visits Families and caregivers receive support, education and training to better understand Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, behaviors resulting from all forms of dementia, how best to deal with such behaviors, and where to turn for support within the community. Library Free brochures and pamphlets, resource books for browsing, borrowing or buying, and informative video tapes for viewing in the office or for loan are available in the Alzheimer's Association office on O'ahu and Maui.
Materials are available in several languages.
The Chapter promotes the Safe Return wanderer's registry. This nationwide data base is accessible 24 hours a day through an 800-number, which enables police and private citizens to identify people with AD and help them return home. Call Oahu or Maui offices for enrollment information. Neighborhood Support Groups Support group meetings are held in many neighborhoods throughout the state. Caregivers meet in a nonjudgmental, confidential and sympathetic environment to share coping techniques, knowledge of the disease, awareness of community resources, and fellowship.