People Inc.

Buffalo, N.Y. December 13, 2006: Not knowing if your loved one will remember you when you ring the door bell or when you are on the other end of the phone is devastating. Your loved one who has dementia or the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease is going through several emotions: sadness, anger, and personality changes. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. There is hope for individuals that are suffering from this degenerative disease and there is help for caregivers. People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited Program provides activities for individuals and a break for caregivers.

People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited, located at 310 Delaware Ave. in Buffalo, is a unique day respite program that meets the special needs of those who have developed dementia or memory loss from Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, strokes, heart disease or any other illness. The program provides a break for the individual’s family members to work, run errands, or attend to personal matters. Participants have the opportunity to make new friends, share experiences, and contribute to discussions that provide memory stimulation. They enjoy working with trained staff and socialize on community outings. A favorite highlight for participants is the art therapy program. It stresses self-esteem and promotes a sense of accomplishment. Art therapy is a unique approach combining graphics, poetry, music, and imagery to encourage self-confidence and willingness to express oneself. Participants have had their artwork displayed at art studios and government buildings.

According to the National Alzheimer’s Association, it is estimated that 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease. The number of Americans with Alzheimer’s has more than doubled since 1980. As recently reported in U.S. News & World Report and the National Alzheimer’s Association’s website, “Alzheimer’s is not just a disease of old age. Early-onset is Alzheimer’s disease that affects people who are under age 65. Many people with early-onset are in their 40s and 50s. Up to 10 percent of people with Alzheimer’s have early-onset. In the United States, that’s about 400,000 people.”

Locally, People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited Program serves 22 individuals ranging in age from 60 to 80. Family members may feel at ease knowing their loved one benefits from a safe and comfortable environment.

For more information about People Inc.’s Seniors Unlimited Program or learn to about caregiver coping tips, call 853-4500.

People Inc. is a not-for-profit health and human services agency providing programs and services to more than 10,000 people with special needs, their families, and seniors throughout Western New York. Since 1971, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity.

Nicole Passantino
Marketing and Communications Manager
Direct Dial: (716) 817-7469
Cellular: (716) 440-5161