THE US POINTER STUDY RESULTS AND BRAIN HEALTH IMPLICATIONS Please join us Wednesday, February 25th, from 10:00- 11:00 AM for a virtual discussion on the US Pointer Study and it’s implications for Brain Health. This two-year clinical trial revealed ways older adults can improve brain function and reduce cognitive decline. Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter will break down these study results and provide insight into wa

One in nine Americans age 65 and older is living with Alzheimer’s disease—more than 7 million people nationwide, including an estimated 255,600 individuals in Illinois. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, the disease places a significant financial burden on families, often threatening long-term financial stability. January is Financial Wellness Month , and the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging individuals and families to take proactive steps toward financial planning

Many people use the terms dementia  and Alzheimer’s disease  interchangeably—but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference is an important first step in recognizing symptoms, seeking help, and supporting those affected. Dementia: An Umbrella Term Dementia is a general term  used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning that interferes with daily life. It is not a specific disease, but rather a category of conditions that affect cognitive functi

In 2016, Vicky’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and died a few years later in 2020, but the truth is, she felt something was wrong even before the diagnosis arrived. There were subtle changes, missed cues, moments of confusion that lingered too long. Her dad was slipping away in pieces, and he was doing it silently. By the time he became a resident in a nursing home, the disease had already taken so much from him and from her. Just one year later, heartbreak st

One of Chicago’s most anticipated fundraising events is officially back! Paint the Night Purple (PTNP)  returns on Friday, February 20, 2026 , and early bird tickets are now available for an unforgettable evening in support of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. Hosted by the Illinois Chapter Junior Board , Paint the Night Purple is more than a party — it’s a powerful movement bringing together 500+ young professionals and community leaders  who are united in the fi

Every day, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter shares timely information, helpful resources, and inspiring stories for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, advocates, and supporters across our state. Staying connected with us on social media is one of the easiest ways to stay informed and make an impact. By following our channels, you’ll find: Brain health tips and the latest Alzheimer’s research Caregiver resources, support groups, and education programs

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Public Health, launched the Illinois Brain Health Project , a groundbreaking public health initiative designed to educate Illinoisans about the importance of brain health. This comprehensive campaign focuses on reducing cognitive decline by addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthy lifestyle practices, with a particular emphasis on reaching diverse, underserved, and h

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before it impacted their lives. They also want treatment, even if it comes with risks, as long as it slows the progression of the disease. These are among the insights uncovered in the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report released by the Alzheimer’s Association today.  The 2025 Facts and

Illinois Women Conquer ALZ and the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter are thrilled to extend nominations for the Caregiver Awards  an additional week. There’s still time to honor the incredible caregivers who support people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia across Illinois. This year, we will recognize two exceptional caregivers:✨ One Family & Friend Caregiver ✨ One Paid Professional Caregiver Nominations are now open through December 7, 2025 . Help us celebrate the

On Giving Tuesday , millions of people around the world will unite for a global day of generosity — a day dedicated to creating meaningful, positive change. This year, we invite you to be part of that impact by supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and helping fuel critical progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Your generosity powers a new era of breakthroughs. From cutting-edge prevention studies to revolutionary early detection through blood-based tests, your

Shared by: Kathy Kelley For most people, the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a powerful, once-a-year experience. For Kathy, that experience became a year-round commitment to supporting families, caregivers, and the mission to end Alzheimer’s. Two years ago, she was scrolling through Instagram when a simple post caught her eye, an invitation to volunteer at the DuPage Walk to End Alzheimer's at North Central College. She signed up, unsure of what to expect. What she found was a com

Nominations Open for the 2025 Caregiver Recognition Awards (Previous Award Recipients Are Available for Interview)   Each year, Illinois Women Conquer ALZ (IWCA) honors the everyday heroes who provide exceptional care and unwavering support to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These caregivers, whether family members, friends, or professionals, embody compassion, resilience, and dedication in the face of one of life’s greatest challenges. In rec

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter announced that Jackie Olkiewicz , has been named Chair of the 2026 Do What You Love to End ALZ  campaign. “It is a profound honor to serve as Chair for this meaningful campaign. Alzheimer’s has touched my life in a deeply personal way — my mother battled the disease, and I witnessed firsthand the emotional and physical toll it takes on individuals and their families,” said Jackie Olkiewicz. “I lost her in December of 2023. That exp

This November, in recognition of National Family Caregivers Month  and No Shave November , Chicago Bulls Assistant Coach John Bryant  launched the “Mustachios for Memory”  — a heartfelt campaign to raise awareness and funds for the Alzheimer’s Association  in celebration of his father, John, and in honor of the nearly 12 million family and friends  across the U.S. who provide unpaid care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia. Bryant invites everyone to pu

When a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia goes missing, every minute counts. In Illinois, the Silver Search  program was created to ensure a swift and coordinated response to bring missing individuals home safely. Established through legislation that took effect on January 1, 2016 , Silver Search is a statewide initiative designed to raise awareness, educate the public, and provide essential tools and resources to help locate and safely return peopl

● As people conduct their holiday travel this year, planning and completing a long distance trip can be more stressful for the more than 7 million Americans currently living with Alzheimer’s and their families. ● For those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, travel can be more complex and may trigger anxiety and cause confusion. ● While the disease-related symptoms of this progressive brain disease can sometimes make travel more difficult, it does not mean families can’t tra

As clocks “fell back” one hour on Sunday, November 2, marking the end of Daylight-Saving Time (DST), most Americans welcomed the extra hour of rest. But for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, this annual adjustment can bring confusion, disrupted routines, and sleepless nights that ripple through households. Experts say that while time change is a small inconvenience for most, it can significantly impact those whose sense of stability depends o

By: Alec Fraggos, Law Clerk at Peck Ritchey, LLC Much of Stan Lee’s life was marked by adventure, creativity, and fame. The writer, editor, publisher, and producer took on several roles beyond what marked his career success. Lee was a father, husband, and philanthropist. However, the end of Lee’s life is a stark reminder that financial exploitation can happen to anyone, regardless of income, resources, and educational attainment. While Lee’s estate was likely carefully crafte

Nearly half a million American veterans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a number expected to grow significantly as our population ages. These heroes, who have already given so much in service to our country, now face new challenges as Alzheimer’s brings changes in memory, thinking, and behavior that go far beyond normal aging. To support veterans and their families, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter invites you to join a special webinar on Wednesday, November

If you're raising children and  helping care for an aging parent, you’re part of a unique and often overlooked group known as the Sandwich Generation . Every day, millions of Americans juggle school runs and sports practices with doctor’s appointments and difficult health decisions for aging loved ones. It’s rewarding—but it can also be overwhelming. That’s why we’re inviting you to a special evening designed just for you. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM