RI is home to very special very program

(FOX Providence) - Rhode Island is the home of a very special program for individuals with early stage Alzheimer's Disease and other related dementias.

It's called The Live and Learn Program , and it's a chance for attendees to have some enjoyment.

The Live and Learn Program began in 2008. And it's a weekly opportunity to add some enjoyment to the lives of those with early stage Alzheimer's Disease, while learning to understand the changes they are experiencing.

"Some of our participants have recently left their job. Some of them drive to the program themselves. They're still able to drive. So, they're early in the disease, but they don't fit the adult day model because they are too active and too aware of what's going on," said Marge Angilly, Program Director of Alzheimer's Association, Rhode Island Chapter.

A typical day at the Live and Learn program lasts two hours. It begins with a social program, including coffee and treats. And it's the participants who choose how they want to spend the first hour of the program.

"They've worked on linus blankets for the hospitals for children. We explain to them what a linus blanket is. See, they want to give back to the community. They have so much to still give. And they want to do that. They may research something in history. One of the groups did the history of Blackstone Valley. And they had someone come in," said Angilly.

At every Live and Learn, there's also a one hour exercise program with a certified instructor.

"Whether it be Tai Chi, the bands, the weights. And they really get into it. Sometimes they embarrass me, and I can't keep up with them sometimes."

Anyone that's been diagnosed with an early memory loss problem can attend a Live and Learn program. And during those two hours, care partners also benefit by having this time to themselves.

"The caregiver, this is his or her time to have some respite. That they can go off and do something that they want to do, knowing that their loved one is in an environment that is safe and nurturing for them."

There are five locations throughout Rhode Island that host the Live and Learn Program. To see if this program would benefit someone you know, all you have to do is make a simple phone call.

"We set up an appointment with the person who has the diagnosis and a care provider, to see if this is a fit for them. And we bring them through the process."

There's a lot of camaraderie between the folks who attend the Live and Learn Programs. According to Marge, age is not a factor.

"There have been social groups that have spun off from this. Couples go out together now to dinner. One group went square dancing and experienced things they probably never did in their life before. It's really great for all of us," said Angilly.

For more information on The Live and Learn Program:
http://www.alz.org/ri