New app helps plan what’s next after Alzheimer’s, dementia diagnosis

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- A new app launched by the Alzheimer's Association is giving vital information to those living with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Jill Carroll, the Greater Richmond chapter program manager, said the My ALZ Journey app is the first for those in the early stages of the disease and their care partner.

"How awful would it be to get a diagnosis and then be like, 'okay, what do we do now?'" Carroll said. "With this app, you can learn more about the disease."

The app provides support, tools and information to make planning after your diagnosis easier, during what could be a difficult time.

The app offers personalized resources for people living with the disease based on their own timeline. It can help plan the next steps after a diagnosis.

"It's going to help people process emotions," Carroll said. "It's helping planning, right, you want to be able to have time to plan. It's very empowering to the person with the diagnosis to be able to say, this is what I would like. This is what I would like in my journey down the road."

Another feature is the ability to enter your zip code and find your local Alzheimer's Association chapter. That can connect you with programs and support groups.

The app was developed with an early stage advisory council, made up of individuals living with the disease and their care partners. Their input helped determine details of the app.

"These are real life stories," Carroll said. "Yes, science, research, that's all very important. But these are real individuals that are on this journey currently. And their input is crucial because this app needs to be beneficial to those who are navigating this disease."

You can find more information on the My ALZ Journey app or the Alzheimer's Association website.