Alzheimer's Disease
Alzheimer's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, primarily impacting older adults. Alzheimer's gradually damages brain cells, leading to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty performing daily tasks. In later stages, individuals may lose the ability to communicate or recognize loved ones. Although there is no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Early diagnosis and supportive care are essential for patients and their families to navigate the challenges of the disease.
Maine Resources
Maine Council on Aging - Resource Guide - Offers a statewide Aging Resource Guide that connects older adults and caregivers with essential local services. It features Maine’s Aging & Disability Resource Centers and highlights support for aging in place, dementia care, legal services, and caregiver assistance.
MaineGeneral - Alzheimer's Care Center - Offers long-term residential care for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Located in Gardiner, Maine, the center provides a secure, home-like setting with indoor and outdoor spaces designed to support safety, comfort, and connection to nature. Staff work closely with families to create personalized care plans tailored to each resident’s needs.
MaineHealth - Cognitive Neurology Services - Offers comprehensive cognitive neurology care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Their multidisciplinary team focuses on slowing disease progression, alleviating symptoms, and enhancing quality of life. Services include cognitive evaluations, neuropsychological testing, imaging, EEGs, and access to clinical trials. The clinic emphasizes collaboration with primary care physicians, families, and caregivers to provide patient-centered care.
Northern Light Health - Geriatric Behavioral Care - Offers compassionate, expert care for older adults facing memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and related behavioral health challenges. Their team provides comprehensive evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and access to clinical trials through the Strauss Neurocognitive Research Program, helping patients and families navigate these complex conditions with support and guidance.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) - Supports family caregivers in Cumberland (excluding Harpswell and Brunswick) and York counties. They offer services like the Savvy Caregiver program for dementia care, the State Respite Care Program for financial support, and various support groups. SMAA also provides wellness programs, including Tai Chi for Health & Balance, and resources for kinship families.
Town of Sullivan, Maine - Dementia Inclusion Downeast - A community initiative in Sullivan, Maine, created through a partnership between Age-Friendly Sullivan and the Frenchman’s Bay Library. It provides daily resources, educational materials, and activities focused on brain health for individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Offerings include curated books, videos, online guides like Pathways to Well-Being with Dementia, and practical tools such as the Cooking Our Way cookbook. New content is shared regularly on their Facebook page, and physical resources are available at the Frenchman’s Bay Library.
Regional Resources
Massachusetts Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (MADRC) - Dedicated to discovering new ways to prevent and eventually cure Alzheimer's disease and related dementias through research and clinical trials.
National Resources
Alzheimer's Impact Movement - Advocates for public policies that improve the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Maine, AIM works alongside the Alzheimer’s Association to promote funding, access to care, and support for caregivers. Their efforts focus on advancing research, expanding community services, and influencing state and federal legislation.
Alzheimers.gov - The U.S. government’s official resource for information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Managed by the National Institute on Aging, it connects individuals, caregivers, and professionals with trusted information about symptoms, care options, support resources, and clinical trials. The site’s mission is to provide clear, science-based guidance and tools to help people navigate dementia-related challenges.
BrightFocus Foundation - Provides resources and information for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and their caregivers – including guides on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and daily care strategies. Their mission is to fund innovative research and provide expert information to empower those facing Alzheimer’s, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. The organization also offers free publications and educational materials to support both patients and families.
Mayo Clinic - Offers clear, detailed information about Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive brain disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It explains early symptoms, such as forgetfulness and confusion, and outlines how the disease worsens over time. The site also explores known risk factors and biological changes in the brain. While there is no cure, the Mayo Clinic shares helpful guidance on managing symptoms, treatment options, and support resources for families and caregivers.
The Alzheimer's Association - Dedicated to advancing research, providing support, and promoting brain health to end Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. It offers education, a 24/7 Helpline, caregiver resources, and support groups for individuals and families affected by dementia. The Association also works to influence public policy and increase awareness of the disease. The organization has a Maine Chapter that offers local programs and services across the state.