The Alzheimer’s Association launched a new free mobile application designed to support newly diagnosed dementia patients and their families as they navigate the early stages of the disease. According to the app creators, My ALZ Journey addresses a critical gap in post-diagnosis support for the millions of Americans affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Currently, more than 7 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, and research shows that 66% of dementia caregivers report difficulty finding resources and support following a diagnosis. The Alzheimer’s Association developed this digital tool specifically to address these challenges by providing immediate access to trusted information and local resources.

“A dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and isolating,” said Elizabeth Edgerly, senior director of Community Programs and Services at the Alzheimer’s Association, in a statement. “My ALZ Journey offers trusted, easy-to-access guidance that helps individuals and families in the early stages of the disease feel supported and confident about what comes next.”

The app’s development included substantial input from people living with dementia, including current and former members of the Alzheimer’s Association National Early Stage Advisory Group. The collaboration was initiated to ensure that this new technology meets real-world needs of newly diagnosed dementia patients and their care partners.

Key features include personalized content based on the user’s role (patient or caregiver), age at diagnosis and location. The app provides step-by-step guidance for adjusting to diagnosis, educational materials about dementia and caregiving, connections to local Alzheimer’s Association chapters and interactive planning tools.

“Technology can be challenging for someone living with dementia, but I find the My ALZ Journey app easy to use,” said Brent Beasley, who was diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease in 2023, according to an Alzheimer’s Association press release.

The My ALZ Journey app is available for free download on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store, requiring no user account creation to protect privacy.