Navigating the Journey Together
Facing Alzheimer's disease or another progressive dementia can be one of life's most challenging journeys, not just for the individual but for their entire family. At Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital (SNMH), we understand the complexities, the emotions, and the profound need for support that comes with this diagnosis.
Our Alzheimer's Outreach Program (AOP) is a dedicated and free community service designed to be your compassionate guide. We're here to walk alongside individuals living with memory impairment and their caregivers in Western Nevada County, offering resources, education, and personalized assistance every step of the way. You don't have to face this alone.
Why Support Matters: The Scope of Dementia
- A Growing Need: Alzheimer's is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States, and tragically, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's or dementia. It remains the only top-10 cause of death that cannot be prevented, slowed, or cured.
- More Than Statistics: Behind these numbers are real families, real struggles, and a critical demand for understanding and support. The AOP is our commitment to meeting that demand right here in our community.
How We Can Help: Your Free Support & Education
The Alzheimer's Outreach Program (AOP) offers two primary components – Clinical & Ongoing Support Services and Caregiver Education Programs – tailored to provide comprehensive, free assistance.
Clinical & Ongoing Support Services
The AOP is a "touchstone" in your caregiving journey, reminding you that you are not alone. Our AOP Coordinator, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), provides confidential, one-on-one counseling and support to help you navigate the immediate and long-term challenges. This assistance can be offered through a phone call or an in-home visit for your comfort and convenience.
Our Clinical & Ongoing Support Services assist with common issues such as:
- Caregiver Burnout & Stress: Strategies and linkage to mental health supports to protect your well-being.
- Accurate Diagnosis: Guidance on obtaining an accurate diagnosis.
- Respite Care Options: Exploring options and resources for temporary relief, including potential respite funds.
- Hiring In-Home Help: Education and linkage to resources for finding reliable assistance in the home.
- Managing Challenging Behaviors: Effective strategies to address difficult behaviors that may arise.
- Effective Communication: Techniques for clear and compassionate communication with those living with memory loss.
- Placement Decisions: Expert guidance and support when considering care facilities.
- Family Meetings: Facilitation of family discussions regarding planning, safety, and stress reduction.
- Benefit Navigation: Linkage to Veterans and Medi-Cal services, IHSS, and other supportive programs.
- Support Group Connections: Information and linkage to local caregiver support groups.
Connect with our AOP Coordinator for personalized support: Judy Kautz, LCSW, AOP Coordinator
Caregiver Education Programs
Knowledge empowers caregivers. AOP supports family caregivers with a variety of free educational programs designed to inform, equip, and provide comfort.
Our comprehensive educational offerings include:
- "Essential Tools for Caregivers" Series: A foundational program providing vital strategies and insights.
- "Remember Me" Series: A unique series offering specific support and understanding.
- These AOP series are typically offered during the spring and fall.
For details on upcoming classes and series, contact our AOP Education Coordinator: Linda Aeschliman, AOP Education Coordinator
Stay Informed & Get Involved
Don't miss out on vital learning opportunities, workshop dates, and community events related to Alzheimer's and dementia.
Click Here for Our Upcoming Events
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who Funds the AOP?
A: The Alzheimer's Outreach Program operates on a shared funding model, generously supported by Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Home Care, the County of Nevada, and through dedicated donations via the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation. This funding directly supports essential services like one-on-one crisis care, comprehensive case management, caregiver education, community education and outreach, and crucial respite care funds for families in need.
Q: What is the cost for AOP services?
A: There is no cost for any of the Alzheimer's Outreach Program services. We are a free community resource committed to providing ongoing support through a case management model.
Q: Who would be an appropriate referral for AOP?
A: The AOP is here to support anyone in the community who is:
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- - Suffering from a memory impairment and in need of guidance or support.
- - Adjusting to a new diagnosis of Alzheimer's or related dementia.
- - A caregiver experiencing stress, burnout, or in need of compassionate support and resources.
For More Information Contact:
- Linda Aeschliman, AOP Education Coordinator
- Email: infosnmhf@commonspirit.org
- Call or Text: (530) 648-0592
- Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation
P.O. Box 1810
Grass Valley, CA 95945
AOP is a joint program of the Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Foundation & Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital, proudly funded in part by the County of Nevada.