The public "Open Day" was part of the Tzipporah Fried Center's project to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, to provide coping tools, and to let families know that there is someone they can turn to for guidance and support.

"Throughout the day, we encountered tremendous thirst for information on the details of the disorder and the various treatment approaches," reports Mrs. Ilana Ben Shachar, director of the Center.

In the course of the Open Day, lectures were given on the subjects of preserving memory abilities, keeping the patient constructively occupied and improving lines of communication. Medical, familial and social aspects were addressed.

Between lectures, the participants had a chance to consult privately with members of Ezer Mizion's professional staff. Geriatric psychiatrist Professor Shlomo Noy, Director of Sheba Rehabilitation Hospital and Vice President of Sheba Hospital Research and Development Unit, took an active part in the open day, answering questions presented by the public.

The individual counseling system, which constructs a focused, personal program suited to the particular needs of the Alzheimer patient and his family, is unique to the Tzipporah Fried Support Center. Private consultations with the skilled professional staff provide information, support and referral to relevant agencies. The Center walks the families through the various stages of the illness, and offers support groups for family members.