It’s nearly time for us to “Go Purple with a Purpose” for Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness and Caregivers Month! Are you ready? The Passport for Wellness team sure is!
President Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in 1983. At the time of the proclamation, fewer than 2 million Americans suffered from Alzheimer’s. As we’re writing to you today, the number of people with the disease has soared to nearly 5.4 million. It’s time that we change that.
November is also dedicated to caregivers of those afflicted by Alzheimer’s Disease, and the Alzheimer’s Association (http://www.alz.org) wants you to know that you’re not alone. Whether you or a friend need information about the early stages of Alzheimer’s, or how to face the challenge of middle to late-stage caregiving, resources like the Alzheimer’s Association are devoted to helping you.
Caregivers in the US may find this local resource list helpful. Click here to access.
Credit: ALZ.org
No matter whether you are a professional caregiver, loved one, friend, or advocate, you can do your part to Go Purple for November Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Here are 3 ways to do so:
1. Find Your Local Alzheimer’s Walk and Raise Awareness
You can find a local Alzheimer’s Walk near you by visiting the Alzheimer’s Association Find a Walk link here. This is one of the best ways to get involved in Alzheimer’s Awareness and Prevention in your local community and raise money for the cause in the process. Remember, the end of Alzheimer’s truly starts with you!
2. Get Support with the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline
Have questions? Aren’t sure where to turn? The ALZ.org 24/7 helpline was designed to assist caregivers and loved ones across America. Tell your friends, and call toll free anytime day or night at 1-800-272-3900 for help and support, or visit this link for more information.
3. Know the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
You can do your part to help a friend or loved one if you suspect the onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Click here to learn about the 10 signs, which include memory loss that disrupts daily life, changes in mood or personality, or new problems with words in speaking or writing. You can also use this resource to determine what’s considered typical aging, and what indicates further investigation by a health professional.
Please also stay tuned for coverage of our participation in the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Resource Center’s November 4 Event, Aging Well: Lessons from the Blue Zones.
