Special Publications - Living Here - Living Here_People

POSTED: Sunday, Mar. 30, 2008

Josselyn Winslow, executive director, Alzheimer Society of Washington

Name: Josselyn Winslow.

Age: 77.

Job: Executive director, Alzheimer Society of Washington.

How long: 25 years.

Background: "My mother developed Alzheimer's disease around 1974. The doctor told her she had memory loss, and she should go home and live with it. By 1976, she was living with our family; we were trying to help her and to make sense of the disease. In 1980, we got an answer: Alzheimer’s disease.

"A group of us with family members in similar situations joined together and the Alzheimer Society of Washington was incorporated."

Most frequent question: "My husband/wife/mother/father is showing signs of memory loss. What should I do?"

Most unusual question: "Would you help me convince my uncle it's OK to discuss my aunt's diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease?"

Tip: "Realize there are many people of all ages in your community who are living with dementia. Talk to your doctor. If your doctor doesn't address your concerns, ask for a referral to another physician."