NIH Radio
NIA Offers "Easy To Read" Booklets on Alzheimer's, Memory Loss
Brief Description:
The National Institute on Aging has developed two free booklets designed to help people with limited literacy skills learn about Alzheimer's Disease and memory loss.
Transcript:
Schmalfeldt: The National Institute on Aging has developed two free booklets designed to help people with limited literacy skills learn about Alzheimer's Disease and memory loss. In the booklets, medical and technical language has been replaced by plain language, stories, photos and other features designed to help readers understand the content, according to Patricia D. Lynch, project officer of the Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center.
Lynch: The target audience is primarily older people who are interested in learning about Alzheimer's Disease. But it's really a broader target because it will be of interest, I think, to families and to people who just generally would like to know more about memory loss. These booklets are available through the NIA's Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center at 1-800-438-4380. We're really excited about these booklets because we think they're going to fill a large need.
Schmalfeldt: The booklet "Understanding Memory Loss" covers topics like the difference between mild forgetfulness and serious memory problems, causes of memory problems and how they can be treated, what a person should do when worried about memory, and how family members can help. In the booklet "Understanding Alzheimer's Disease", readers will learn about the signs and treatment of AD, the importance of seeing a doctor early, and what help is available for caregivers. In addition to the toll-free number, 1-800-438-4380, the books can be ordered online at www.alzheimers.nia.nih.gov. From the National Institutes of Health, I'm Bill Schmalfeldt in Bethesda, Maryland.
About This Audio Report
Date: 6/9/2006
Reporter: Bill Schmalfeldt
Sound Bite: Patricia D. Lynch
Topic: Alzheimer's Disease
Institute(s): NIA
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