Alzheimer's Association offers new peer-to-peer program

Submitted by Alzheimer's Association Greater Illinois Chapter

The Alzheimer's Association Greater Illinois Chapter has announced its new peer-to-peer mentoring program, pALZ.

This program, one of the first of its kind for Alzheimer's, provides supportive resources for young professionals facing an Alzheimer's diagnosis in a family member or loved one. pALZ allows young people whose lives have been touched by dementia to benefit from the camaraderie and support of someone who has gone through a similar experience.

In the pALZ program, mentors and mentees are matched by way of a program liaison who introduces the two. The nature of each relationship is discretionary and mentors and mentees may communicate via phone, video chat, text message, email or in person.

The program is meant for mentees to receive personal support and companionship. It is not meant as a way to provide medical advice, referrals or financial support.

In forming the program, the Greater Illinois Chapter recognized the importance of reviewing applications and providing training for those who wished to act as mentors.

“The training will be an opportunity for the mentors to engage with one another and share common experiences that will aid them in forming supportive relationships with their mentees,” said Stephanie Herro, senior manager, Support Services.

“pALZ mentors will be trained in techniques similar to those of our support group facilitators, learning about the potential dynamics of a mentoring relationship and how to manage any difficult situations.”

For information on the pALZ program and how to get involved, visit alzheimers-illinois.org/palz.

The Alzheimer's Association is the world's largest voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's research, care and support. Its mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

The Alzheimer's Association, Greater Illinois Chapter, serves 68 counties in Illinois. Since 1980, the chapter has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.