Understanding Memory Loss is the core education program of the Alzheimer's Association, St. Louis Chapter. This free teleconference provides a thorough overview of memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer's disease while including information about research, treatments and how to get a diagnosis. This program forms the foundation for all other education programs, and everyone is encouraged to attend before participating in other programs.

     The next Understanding Memory Loss will be held from 6-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 12.

     This telephone conference is free of charge to any family caregiver who would like to join by telephone. Preregistration is required. Register online at www.alzstl.org, or call 800.272.3900. A toll-free phone number will be sent to you with your materials upon registration. This program is one of a 3-part series of programs meant to complement one another and attendance to each is encouraged. But if you can only join one or two, the Alzheimer's Association encourages you to register for those you can attend. 

     The Association also hosts a variety of educational programs. Please contact the Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 for more information on these and other activities.

     In Jefferson County, the Alzheimer's Association offers monthly support groups in De Soto and Crystal City.  The Crystal City support group meets the first Wednesday of every month at 3:00 pm at Crystal Oaks Skilled Nursing Facility, located at 1500 Calvary Church Road, Crystal City, MO 63019. Contact Michelle Rolfi at 636.933.1818 for more information and to confirm the meeting date and time.  The De Soto support group meets on the second Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Baisch Nursing Center, located at 3260 Baisch Drive, DeSoto, MO 63020. Further information about local meetings is available by calling 636-586-2291.