Options available for Alzheimer’s Disease Caregivers to remain active during summer

PLATTSBURGH — As the weather continues to get warmer during National Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative (ADCSI) encourages caregivers to enjoy the benefits of nature.

Studies have shown that green spaces and natural environments can help reduce stress and improve cognitive function.

“The counties we serve are blessed with some of the most impressive and beautiful outdoor spaces in the state. As a caregiver myself, I understand the benefits of a walk around the neighborhood or the tranquility of a place like Point Au Roche State Park,” Valarie Drown, project director, Alzheimer’s Disease Caregiver Support Initiative, said.

“This month is the perfect reminder to take time for your health.”

ADCSI provides free wellness programs for Alzheimer’s disease caregivers.

Upcoming outdoor events include:

- Warren County Walking Club: June 5 and 21 at 10:30 a.m., Warren County bike path, Country Club Road, Queensbury, N.Y.

- Hadley Station Rail Biking: June 7 at 12:30 p.m., 4113 Rockwell Street, Hadley, N.Y.

- Clinton County Walking Club: June 7 at 2 p.m., Point Au Roche State Park, Plattsburgh.

Caregivers in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Warren and Washington Counties are eligible for ADCSI’s free respite services to attend any of the wellness events.

Caregivers may also use respite to attend appointments, use supportive resources or find themselves otherwise engaged in time away from their loved one. All respite services are provided by trained professionals, and if a caregiver does not have a respite care provider in mind, ADCSI can help find one through its partners.

“It is vitally important that we provide our caregivers with the resources they need to properly take care of themselves. Our ADCSI team is dedicated to spreading the word far and wide to positively impact as many caregivers as we can in the North country who need that extra support,” Drown said.

For a full list ADCSI’s upcoming wellness events and services, please visit wehelpcaregivers.com.