Alzheimer’s Disease

Thank you for your Sept. 30 editorial, “Alzheimer’s and Lifestyles.” Anything we can do to bring to the public’s attention the terrible ravages of this disease, in light of its projected dramatic increase and cost to society, is of service to our community.

We are a locally based foundation established by opera diva Dorothy Kirsten in honor of her husband, Dr. John Douglas French, who was co-founder and former director of the UCLA Brain Research Institute.

The new slant that you highlighted in your editorial, “ ... that the way we live our lives can affect the onset of the disease,” deserves the emphasis you have given it.

Our foundation, recognizing this aspect, has developed a unique program called “Adopt an Elder,” in which we bring together high school students and the elderly (including those afflicted with Alzheimer’s) in a social setting to help slow the development of this devastating disease. The students bring the vitality of youth and one-on-one attention and companionship, which results not only in constant stimulation of the brain, but in immediate joy and lasting sense of value.

Anyone interested in learning more about this program is invited to contact us at (310) 445-4650 or fax (310) 479-0516.

ART LINKLETTER

Chairman of the Board

John Douglas French

Alzheimer’s Foundation, L.A.