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Helpline WatersNow that summer is here, try to watch how people get into a swimming pool. There are those who just dive or jump right in. There are those who test the water before getting in. There also are individuals I call the "inchers" - they get in, but very slowly. Finally, there are some people who never get in at all. I have observed over the years that, for some of us, how we approach a swimming pool also is how we will approach something new or a challenge we face. Being diagnosed with Alzheimer's or a related dementia, or having a loved one with this diagnosis, may, at first, feel as if you've been pushed into a cold pool when you weren't looking. However, once the shock starts to wear off, people begin to cope in the way most natural to them. Learning about the disease and talking with others in similar situations does help in understanding and coping with this disease. On the Chapter Helpline we receive calls from jumpers, testers, and inchers every day. The staff and volunteers try to address each caller's concerns and requests for information at whatever stage they may be at the time of the call. As this disease progresses, families often will call back as new challenges or concerns arise. We are here to listen and can provide information on the disease, caregiving concerns, chapter services, and community resources. If you have questions or need to talk, please call the Helpline on our new toll-free number at 1-866-259-0042.
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