June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, support caregivers, and advocate for better dementia care. Over 230,000 Illinois seniors live with Alzheimer’s—a number expected to grow by 18% by 2025 (Alzheimer’s Association).
At Healing Hands Home Care, Inc., we specialize in compassionate memory care that helps Chicago-area families:
✅ Slow cognitive decline with evidence-based activities
✅ Manage challenging behaviors without medication
✅ Create dementia-friendly homes
✅ Find respite and support
This guide shares local resources, care strategies, and ways to get involved in the fight against Alzheimer’s.
Key Takeaways
- Illinois Impact: 1 in 9 seniors in Chicago has Alzheimer’s
- Early Signs: Memory loss, confusion, personality changes
- Care Strategies: Routine-based care, sensory stimulation
- Local Support: Rush Memory Clinic, CJE SeniorLife programs
- How to Help: Join the Chicago Walk to End Alzheimer’s (September)
- Specialized Care: Our caregivers are trained in Teepa Snow techniques
Main Content
1. Understanding Alzheimer’s & Dementia
Key Differences:
- Alzheimer’s: Progressive memory loss (60-80% of dementia cases)
- Vascular Dementia: Caused by strokes/blood flow issues
- Lewy Body Dementia: Hallucinations, movement problems
Chicago-Specific Data:
- South Side seniors have higher rates of late diagnosis (UChicago Medicine study)
- Top hospitals for dementia care: Northwestern, Rush, Advocate Lutheran General
2. Spotting Alzheimer’s Early
10 Warning Signs (Alzheimer’s Association):
- Memory loss disrupts daily life
- Trouble planning/problem-solving
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time/place
- Vision/spatial issues
Local Alzheimer’s Care
- Rush Memory Clinic (free community screenings in June)
- Northwestern Neurobehavior Clinic
- Erie Family Health Centers (Spanish/Polish services)
3. Memory Care Strategies That Work
Daily Routine Tips
- Keep consistent meal/bedtimes
- Use visual schedules (photos + large text)
- Limit naps to 30 minutes to prevent sundowning
Home Modifications
✔ Color contrast: Red plate on white table helps with eating
✔ Safe wandering paths: Clear hallways, locked exit doors
✔ Memory stations: Photo albums by the favorite chair
Cognitive Activities
- Music therapy: Chicago Symphony’s Memory Café program
- Reminiscence therapy: Old neighborhood photos for conversation
4. Support for Chicago Caregivers
Respite Care Options:
- CJE SeniorLife Adult Day Program (Skokie)
- Healing Hands’ specialized memory care aides
Support Groups:
- Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter (virtual/in-person)
- NorthShore Caregiver Wellness Program
Financial Assistance:
- Illinois Medicaid Waiver covers home care
- VA Benefits for veteran families
5. How to Get Involved
June Events in Chicagoland:
- Purple Light Walks (Lincoln Park, Naperville Riverwalk)
- Educational Webinars with Rush neurologists
- The Longest Day (June 21 – fundraising activities)
Volunteer Opportunities:
- Become a Memory Care Companion at local nursing homes
- Advocate for dementia-friendly businesses in your neighborhood
Local
- Neighborhoods: Hyde Park (UChicago studies), Lincolnwood (CJE HQ), Lakeview (Alz Assoc. office)
- Landmarks: Willis Tower lit purple on June 20
- Service Area: Cook, DuPage, Lake, Kane, Will, McHenry
Embedded Map:
[Google Maps – Healing Hands Home Care, Chicago]
NAP:
Healing Hands Home Care, Inc.
📍 6730 W Higgins Ave, Chicago, IL 60656
📞 (773) 792-3333
🌐 healinghandshomecare.com
FAQ Section
Q: How is Alzheimer’s different from normal aging?
A: Normal aging might involve forgetting names temporarily—Alzheimer’s affects the ability to retrace steps.
Q: Where can I get a free memory screening?
A: Rush Mobile Clinic offers June pop-ups at Chicago libraries.
Q: What’s the #1 mistake families make with dementia care?
A: Correcting loved ones—instead, redirect (“I see you’re thinking of Mom—tell me about her”).
Q: Does Medicare cover memory care at home?
A: Yes, if prescribed as skilled cognitive therapy.
Q: How can I make my parent’s home safer?
A: We provide free dementia safety audits.
Call-to-Action
This June, take action against Alzheimer’s with Healing Hands:
💜 Free memory care consultations
💜 Respite care so you can recharge
💜 Training in Positive Approach® to Care
📞 Call (773) 792-3333 to:
- Get a custom dementia care plan
- Learn about Chicago support groups
- Join local awareness events
Together, we can create a dementia-friendly Chicago.