AFA was founded in 2002 by a caregiver whose mother lived with Alzheimer’s disease from 1980-1992. At that time, there was little information available and nowhere to turn for support. His goal was to make sure that no other family living with Alzheimer’s disease would have to go through the journey alone. AFA was created to be that resource for families in their time of need. AFA operates a National Toll-Free Helpline (866-232-8484), staffed entirely by licensed social workers, which provides support and assistance to callers, as well as connect them with resources in their area, no matter where in the United States they live. AFA’s national network of more than 2,000 member organizations serves families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related illnesses throughout the nation. To help individuals take a proactive approach to brain health, AFA has a National Memory Screening Program which provides, free, confidential memory screenings at sites across the country. What began as a program on a single day in November has grown into a year-round service which has screened more than 5 million people to date. AFA also works with professional caregivers and dementia-care settings to provide them with additional training and continuing education to elevate the level of care they provide on a daily basis. AFA has trained and educated more than 20,000 individuals through its professional training and community education programs.
