NORWELL VNA AWARDED GRANT FROM SOUTH SHORE ELDER SERVICES, INC. Exploring Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia October 26, 2007 (NORWELL, MA) - The Norwell Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded two grants by South Shore Elder Services, Inc. under Title IIID and Title IIIE. The grants will fund a day-long conference to be offered Spring 2008 that will focus on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The event will be catered towards caregivers, family members and healthcare professionals affected by these diseases. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and fatal brain dysfunction that afflicts 5 million Americans, making it the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. As the most common form of dementia, it destroys brain cells, generating problems with memory and intellectual activity. The families and caregivers of patients are deeply affected by the disease, as long-term care is needed in the majority of cases. "Through our monthly Alzheimer’s support group we meet a variety of individuals affected by the disease," said Jackie Crossen-Sills, PhD, Program Development Manager. "These grants will allow us to better serve that population and reach out to more people who may need our assistance." Norwell VNA’s Title IIIE grant will be dedicated to the overall production of the Alzheimer and dementia day-long conference. The Title IIID grant is geared towards providing event attendees with an in-depth educational information session on the medications available for patients with Alzheimer’s or dementia. To receive information about the conference, the Norwell VNA, or our programs, such as the Alzheimer’s Support Group, call 781-659-2342 or www.nvna.org.