This November, Codington Connects is proud to honor the Watertown Memory Care and Aging Network (WAMCAN) as our Agency of the Month. November is also Alzheimer's Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to shine a light on the dedicated work WAMCAN is doing to support individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.
WAMCAN’s mission is to raise awareness, provide support and education, inspire hope, and offer resources to caregivers and members of the public. From their beginnings in 1998 as the Watertown Area Alzheimer’s Support Group, they have consistently supported families facing the immense challenges of dementia. In 2021, WAMCAN broadened its scope and impact by merging with the Watertown Area Council on Aging to create a robust network of resources for aging and memory care known as the Watertown Area Memory Care and Aging Network (WAMCAN).
When someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer's or dementia, the lives of their family and friends change forever. The need for support, education, and guidance becomes vital, especially for caregivers who often bear the emotional and physical weight of care. No two cases are alike, and WAMCAN understands the need for flexibility and personalized support. By equipping caregivers with knowledge and confidence, WAMCAN empowers them to continue their vital role with strength and resilience.
WAMCAN provides a range of programs to support those affected by Alzheimer's and dementia, all at no cost to families or caregivers. Some of these services include:
- Caregiver Support Group: A welcoming space for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and find comfort and encouragement from others who understand.
- Memory Screening: Early screening can be an invaluable tool for families, offering peace of mind or encouraging further action if needed.
- Mary Drake Library: A dedicated library with resources and information on dementia and caregiving.
- Caregivers Fair: A unique event that brings together resources and vendors to provide caregivers with valuable tools and contacts.
- Financial Assistance for Caregivers: To ease the financial burden often associated with caregiving, WAMCAN offers aid through donations gathered from their annual community walk.
The annual walk, held at the scenic Redlin Art Center grounds each September, funds these essential programs, giving the community a chance to come together, raise awareness, and contribute to an impactful cause.
Navigating available services can be challenging, especially for smaller agencies with limited outreach resources. WAMCAN would like the community to know Codington Connects is here to streamline the process, making it easier for Codington County residents to find and connect with services like WAMCAN. The platform is designed to simplify access to local resources, helping families find the support they need quickly and easily.
You can learn more about the Watertown Memory Care and Aging Network’s mission and services on their website at
www.WAMCAN.org and by following their Facebook pages,
Watertown Area Memory Care & Aging Network and
Watertown Memory Care Support Group.
This November, join us in supporting WAMCAN, raising awareness about Alzheimer's, and honoring the strength of caregivers in our community.