Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota - North Dakota to Distribute Information Toolkits to More Than 3,000 Health Care Providers Statewide.

Program supported by Julie Webster Memorial Fund was created to promote earlier diagnosis and care

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota - North Dakota today announced that it has developed comprehensive "physician memory loss toolkits" containing essential diagnostic tools and medical care and support services information, which will be sent to more than 3,000 advanced practice professionals (physicians, neurologists, physicians assistants and nurse practitioners) throughout Minnesota. The toolkits will be unveiled to professionals attending the organization's annual dementia conference, "A Meeting of the Minds," on March 24 in St. Paul. Supported by the Julie Webster Memorial Fund and backed by the Minnesota Medical Association, the toolkits promote early diagnosis, treatment and services for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, as well as their families and care partners.

Kit contents for health care providers include:

* Provider checklist: An easy-to-use, guideline-based, diagnostic checklist.

* Mini-Cog: A three-minute patient screening tool.

* Family Questionnaire: A family / caregiver assessment of patient status.

* Minnesota Guidelines for Alzheimer's Disease Management: An evidence- and consensus-based guideline for ongoing dementia management.

* Rx Pad: An outline of disease information, education, and planning assistance offered by the Alzheimer's Association and other available community support services.

Family caregiver tools include:

* Help and Hope brochure: Describes Alzheimer's Association programs and services.

* Safe Return([R]) program brochure: Offers information on a national registry program for those at risk for wandering.

* Minnesota Advance Directives form: Allows patients and families to make choices about their future medical care.

* AARP Driving and Dementia booklet: Provides information on when it's no longer safe to drive.

Health care providers can order additional copies of the materials from the Alzheimer's Association, free of charge.

"Skip Webster wanted to direct his wife's memorial funds toward a unique and meaningful program that would have a significant impact on Alzheimer's disease care," said Michelle Barclay, Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota - North Dakota director of program services. "We developed these comprehensive informational packets to arm health care providers with an array of tools to support their patients' health and well-being with early diagnosis and medical intervention, plus support and safety services."

About Julie Webster

Deephaven resident Julie Webster died in Buffalo, Wyoming, on July 30, 2006, at the age of 58 as the result of an accident caused by the sudden progression of early Alzheimer's disease. A former elementary school teacher and also a cancer survivor, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2004 and retired from teaching in 2005, but continued to enjoy her family and friends and lead an active lifestyle. She was driving to pick up her daughter from the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport last July and, for reasons unknown, strayed from her route. Her body was found several days later near her car in Wyoming. Her family used memorials to create an Alzheimer's Association fund in her name.

About the Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota - North Dakota

There are more than 5 million people nationwide living with Alzheimer's disease. The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's is increasing age, and with 78 million baby boomers beginning to turn 60 last year, it is estimated that someone in America develops Alzheimer's every 72 seconds; by mid-century someone will develop Alzheimer's every 33 seconds.

The mission of the Alzheimer's Association of Minnesota-North Dakota is to improve the lives of all individuals, families and care partners throughout their journey with Alzheimer's and related diseases by providing leadership, support, education, advocacy and research. More information about the association's programs and services, as well as additional resources for individuals, families and caregivers, can be obtained through www.alzmndak.org or by calling the association's 24-hour Information Helpline at 800-232-0851.