Ohio Department of Aging Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2009

Finer With Age July Episode Examines Exercise and Alzheimer's Disease
Experts and Care Providers Are Featured on Department's Monthly TV Show

COLUMBUS - Alzheimer's disease not only negatively affects cognitive, emotional and behavioral functions, but also takes a toll on physical condition and strength. In the July edition of Finer With Age, the Department of Aging's monthly television program for and about older Ohioans, Director Barbara E. Riley discusses with experts a new program to improve physical conditioning for patients with Alzheimer's disease, and chats with care providers about the challenges of the disease.

Finer With Age is produced monthly by the Ohio Department of Aging, through a partnership with Ohio Government Television. The show is broadcast on select cable access and public broadcasting stations throughout the state. Check your local listings or contact your cable provider for air times. Viewers also may watch the episode on the program's Web site, FinerWithAge.com.

In the first segment, Salli Bollin, executive director of the northwest Ohio chapter of the Alzheimer's Association, and Heather Menne, PhD, a research scientist with the Benjamin Rose Institute, discuss exercise programs, Alzheimer's and dementia in general. Then, Marikate Leavens, the client services supervisor at Heritage Day Health Centers, summarizes resources for those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, and Patty Synder, one of the Ohio Department of Aging's 2009 Elder Caregivers of the Year, shares her personal perspective as a family caregiver.

Almost two million Ohio family members, friends and neighbors provide long-term care services that would cost taxpayers more than $14.2 billion each year if the state were paying the bill. Caregivers often are unaware of the availability of support services and as many as one in four has unmet needs.

About ODA

The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.