One-on-one with Mary Ball

Q: If a family member suffers from Alzheimer’s, what are some tips you recommend for interacting with them?

A: Communicating and caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is very challenging. First, get help. Call the Alzheimer’s Association help line and get answers and advice from trained professionals. Secondly, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s website at and learn ways on how to communicate with the person with Alzheimer’s.

When communicating, don’t argue with the person and always remember that it is the disease — not the person; many behaviors are difficult to understand and manage. Speak simply to the person and avoid using complicated terms or rephrasing. Speak slowly and be prepared to repeat and wait. Allow for plenty of time for comprehension and a response.

Q: Do you think there will be a cure?

A: Yes. San Diego is on the leading edge of Alzheimer’s research and the Alzheimer’s Association’s TrialMatch program has more than 200 San Diegans participating in drug trials today. The question is when there will there be a cure. The sooner more focus and funding is given to Alzheimer’s, the sooner we will have a cure.


A: In high school I ran track and was a high jumper. My best jump cleared 5 feet 4 inches!

Q: Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend.

A: South Mission Beach with family and friends playing paddle ball and body surfing. Ending the day with a bike ride on the boardwalk and a barbecue. Making memories — they’re precious.


