Aging In Place - Alzheimers Assoc.

We welcome Hadi Finerty, Director of Community Engagement for the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, and Tom Hannan, Senior Walk Manager for DuPage County, to discuss one of the most difficult realities facing today's "sandwich generation": recognizing the warning signs of Alzheimer's and dementia while supporting aging loved ones with compassion and confidence. Host Dan Drews and Brennen Roberts explore the differences between Alzheimer's disease and dementia, the importance of early detection, and the resources available to families navigating memory loss. Hadi and Tom share their own personal caregiving experiences while offering practical guidance on identifying early warning signs, understanding risk factors, reducing stigma, and supporting loved ones throughout every stage of the disease. In this conversation, you'll learn about the Alzheimer's Association's free education programs, caregiver support groups, 24/7 Helpline, MyALZJourney app, and the annual Walk to End Alzheimer's. The discussion also highlights research-backed lifestyle habits that promote brain health, emerging treatments that may slow disease progression, and why families should begin these conversations long before a crisis occurs. To learn more about the Alzheimer's Association, access educational resources, find local support groups, or contact the 24/7 Helpline, visit: https://www.alz.org/ 24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900 *Disclaimer. This episode is part of our mission to replace caregiver stress with education. By featuring trusted local organizations like the Alzheimer's Association, we aim to connect families with valuable resources while helping older adults age safely, confidently, and independently throughout the greater Naperville area. --- About Our Guests Hadi Finerty serves as the Director of Community Engagement for the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter, where she leads community education initiatives focused on dementia awareness, brain health, caregiver education, and outreach. With more than a decade of experience, Hadi is passionate about empowering families through education while advancing the Association's mission of a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Tom Hannan is the Senior Walk Manager for DuPage County with the Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter. Inspired by personal experiences with loved ones affected by dementia, Tom works closely with families, volunteers, and community partners to grow the Walk to End Alzheimer's and connect local residents with the education, support, and resources they need throughout their caregiving journey. Learn more: https://www.alz.org/ --- About Our Sponsor Seniors Helping Seniors® Greater Naperville is a unique peer-to-peer home care provider where we match seniors who need a little help with seniors who want to help. We provide non-medical services—from companionship and transportation to personal care and memory care support—that allow older adults to remain independent in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible. You can reach Seniors Helping Seniors at: (630) 360-2780 [email protected] www.shsgreaternaperville.com