Developing programs to meet the needs of Alzheimer's families in rural Maine

In 1992, Maine had only the rudiments of an integrated system of diagnostic and supportive services for people with Alzheimer's disease. Needs assessm ents confirmed that caregiver attitudes, geography, a lack of awareness of available services, and limited diagnostic and other specialized resources were major barriers to establishing an effective, comprehensive, and coordi nated system of services for people with Alzheimer's disease. Responding to this situation, Maine received funds to develop the capacity to respond to the immediate needs of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their fami lies and to promote service system development. This article outlines the o bjectives of the project and highlights the successes and challenges experi enced in Maine. Several important themes emerge that should be considered w hen developing programs to meet mental health needs in rural areas.