The James M. Dixon Foundation, Inc.

The James M. Dixon Foundation is a non-profit, 501C3 charitable organization that provides support for many areas of Alzheimer's and dementia related diseases, research, as well as support for caregivers of adults with Alzheimer's and related dementias.

The Foundation offers targeted assistance to:

Individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias;
Caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias;
Facilities catering to individuals with cognitive impairments, particularly those with dementia;
Agencies, including colleges and universities, engaged in research;
Research institutions focusing on primary research into Alzheimer's disease among African Americans;
Research hospitals conducting studies on the prevention of Alzheimer's and related dementias; and
Longitudinal research studies, especially those focusing on alternative therapeutic supports.

In Honor of A Wonderful Man: James M. Dixon, Sr.

Mr. Dixon, born in 1927 in Chicago, IL, served with distinction in both the Air Force and the Army of the U.S. Armed Services before becoming an accountant for the U.S. Postal Service. A proficient mathematician and computer expert, he actively contributed to his community. In 1991, Mr. Dixon and his wife Mimi retired to Sun City Center, FL, where he remained engaged in the Computer Club and volunteered to prepare taxes for many years.

Mr. Dixon was very active in community organizing and advocacy, offering his expertise to help elect the first Black Mayor of Chicago, Mayor Harold Washington. He was also very vocal in advocating for the rights of those less fortunate. He stayed true to his belief of doing everything with integrity and faith.

Despite his age, Mr. Dixon enjoyed robust health well into his mid-80s, maintaining a regimen of swimming 40 laps per day and traveling extensively. Overcoming battles with prostate, stomach, and lung cancers, he faced new challenges in his late 80s, experiencing forgetfulness, diminished reasoning, and balance issues, eventually forgetting even basic computer usage and directions to his favorite restaurants. At 88, he received a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.

After his diagnosis, Mr. Dixon stated to his daughter that he "didn't remember his life, but he knew he had a good one."

Throughout his brief encounter with the disease, Mr. Dixon retained his characteristic warmth, greeting everyone with a smile. He believed in fate and as he put it, "was willing to face all that the Man Up Stairs had for him." Facing additional challenges at the Assisted Living Facility, he passed away at the age of 90, in 2018. In honor of her father, Dr. Lori established The James M. Dixon Foundation, dedicated to raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, supporting caregivers, advocating for legislation to protect residents of assisted living facilities, promoting and funding research, and providing scholarships for medical school students.

The Foundation envisions a world free of Alzheimer's disease and offers opportunities for others to contribute to this vision and support its realization.

Research

The Groundbreaking Idea of Zero Gravity Immersion

After more than five years, The James M. Dixon Foundation for Alzheimer's Research and Support is poised to redirect our efforts towards research, in addition to the ongoing initiatives we presently undertake. While we have consistently championed research projects, we have yet to embark on one ourselves. Hindered by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the time has now come to initiate a project that was conceptualized in 2019—a project that explores the potential benefits of zero gravity therapy for individuals with early onset and early-stage dementias.

For more information, please contact The Foundation.

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Grassroots and In the Community

Moreover, The Foundation not only supports organizations actively seeking a cure for Alzheimer's disease but also focuses on assisting those living with the disease to live their best lives. We provide support to caregivers through mindfulness and meditation training, retreats, and specially designed courses and support r.oundation apart is our multifaceted approach. Instead of focusing solely on one or two areas or exclusively providing large-scale support, opportunities, and activities, we engage in diverse, community-based initiatives including:

- Active involvement in the community: We engage with care providers, individuals living with Alzheimer's disease, assisted and residential living facilities, churches, community organizations, and wherever support is needed, offering personal assistance, resources and referrals, a kind word, or simply a smile.

- Hosting, facilitating, and participating in community forums: We organize forums of varying sizes to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease, bringing together experts across essential areas of care, assistance, research, and resources.

- Continuous efforts to give back to the community: We seek opportunities to support individuals living with, caring for, and serving in the field of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by providing funding, food, services, materials, resources, referrals, support, and care.

- Providing personalized support: We offer one-on-one and small group support to families of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease.

Anti-Discrimination Policy

The James M. Dixon Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, sexual orientation, color, religion (creed), gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, the appointment of Board of Directors, hiring, firing of staff or contractors, selection of volunteers, selection of vendors, and provision of services.

Self-Care Resources Just For You

Practicing Self Care Rituals

"Welcome to our oasis of self-care! In a world that often moves at breakneck speed, prioritizing our well-being becomes essential. Join us on a journey of rejuvenation as we explore five transformative self-care rituals. From mindful practices to nurturing routines, discover simple yet profound ways to replenish your mind, body, and spirit. Let's delve into the art of self-nurturance and unlock the power of intentional living."

EXPLORE FIVE SELF-CARE RITUALS

Daily Meditation

Welcome to the sanctuary of daily meditation, where the rhythm of your breath guides you into the serenity of the present moment. In a world filled with noise and distractions, carving out time each day for meditation offers a sanctuary for the mind, body, and spirit. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and inner peace as we explore the transformative power of daily meditation. Discover how just a few moments of stillness each day can cultivate clarity, calmness, and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Let's embark on a daily practice that nourishes the soul and enriches the journey of life.

Sharing Healthy Habits

Living in the Here and Now

Welcome to a space dedicated to cultivating healthy habits and nurturing a thriving lifestyle. In today's fast-paced world, prioritizing our well-being has never been more crucial. Join us on a journey of exploration and inspiration as we delve into the realm of healthy habits that nourish the body, mind, and soul. From mindful eating to regular exercise, from fostering positive relationships to practicing self-care, we'll share actionable tips and insights to help you build a foundation of wellness that supports your best self. Let's embark together on a path of holistic health and vitality, one healthy habit at a time.

Find out more

Living in the Here and Now

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, free from judgment or attachment to the past or future. Living in the here and now entails embracing each moment with awareness and acceptance, fostering clarity, resilience, and deeper connections with ourselves and others. By cultivating mindfulness, we can reduce stress, find joy in simple pleasures, and navigate life's challenges with greater wisdom and compassion, ultimately experiencing a profound sense of peace and contentment in the present moment.

Tell Me A Bedtime Story

Living in the Here and Now

Tell Me A Bedtime Story

Dr. Lori offers a weekly Bedtime Story podcast tailored for older adults. Inspired by her father's enjoyment of her storytelling, she decided to share these soothing tales with a wider audience. Tune in to Mindful Bedtime Stories on Spotify, and all premium podcast channels to unwind and relax. New stories are released every Sunday for a tranquil end to your week

Listen Here

The Caregivers Forum

Living in the Here and Now

Tell Me A Bedtime Story

Launching in May 2024, the Mindful Caring Caregivers' Forum is a vital platform addressing topics often overlooked in caregiving. Offering invaluable insights into products, services, and tips for caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's and other dementias, this forum is a supportive space for caregivers. Community experts will be on hand to answer questions, and monthly giveaways of featured products will be offered. Join us as we navigate the journey of caregiving together.

Find out more

About The James M. Dixon Foundation

In Honor of A Wonderful Man: James M. Dixon, Sr.

Research

The Groundbreaking Idea of Zero Gravity Immersion

Grassroots and In the Community

Anti-Discrimination Policy

Self-Care Resources Just For You

Practicing Self Care Rituals

Daily Meditation

Sharing Healthy Habits

Living in the Here and Now

Living in the Here and Now

Living in the Here and Now

Living in the Here and Now

Tell Me A Bedtime Story

Living in the Here and Now

Tell Me A Bedtime Story

The Caregivers Forum

Living in the Here and Now

Tell Me A Bedtime Story