Elder Law Attorney David R. Okrent was honored by the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation (LIAF) at its 19th Remembrance Ball Nov. 3 at the Garden City Hotel.

Okrent is a member of the Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and is chairman of the LIAF Legal Advisory Board. A longtime LIAF supporter, he is a well-known advocate for Long Island’s senior community.

Others honored were Blaine S. Greenwald, MD; Arnold P. Levy; Virginia Belling, RN, MS; Phyllis Ettinger, MA, MEd; Madelyn Dubiner, and Verizon Communications Inc. LIAF’s Annual Remembrance Ball honors men and women who have helped Alzheimer’s sufferers maintain their dignity and live comfortably with the disease.

“I am honored to have been recognized by the Long Island Alzheimer’s Foundation. Together we have been working to ensure that the rights of those stricken with Alzheimer’s, and their families, are protected.” Mr. Okrent said. “They are a very respected organization and do outstanding work.”

It is estimated that close to 500,000 New Yorkers will have Alzheimer’s Disease by the end of the decade. This progressive, degenerative disorder attacks the brain's nerve cells and results in memory loss and behavioral changes. LIAF provides social programs and services to the elderly on Long Island.

“We honored wonderful people who have always looked after LIAF like guardian angels,” said Patricia Gallatin, LIAF’s executive director. “Over the years David has very generously given his time and expertise. He speaks frequently at LIAF’s conferences on legal matters that affect our community, such as changing Medicaid laws, and has put together special panel discussions on such topics as power of attorney, do not resuscitate orders, and feeding tubes, all of which are important issues facing our community today.”

Founded in 1988, LIAF hosts the area’s largest resource and referral center and offers a wide range of cutting-edge educational and social services, including in-home respite care, “Coping and Caring” conferences, and comprehensive Centers for Memory Disorders at area medical facilities. For more information, visit www.liaf.org.