November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and Family Caregivers Month, a time to spotlight the devastating and fatal brain disease currently affecting more than 60,000 people living in Arkansas, and 167,000 more who have been thrust into a caregiving role.
Alzheimer’s accounts for 50 to 70 percent of cases of dementia. It causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior, and becomes very isolating as it progresses. However, the Alzheimer’s Association offers several free support services and resources to help people cope and plan through the disease.
“Alzheimer’s is a devastating and debilitating disease for both the individual affected and their caregivers,” said Mark Fried, President and CEO of the Oklahoma and Arkansas Chapter. “We want the public to know we are here to help anytime – they do not have to travel the journey of Alzheimer’s alone.”
The Alzheimer’s Association has more than 70 Chapters throughout the country, with three local offices in Arkansas, that provide educational and support services to all those affected by Alzheimer’s, including:
- 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900
- Care Consultations
- Support Groups
- Education and Training
- Caregiver Counseling
- Information and Resources
- Younger-onset and Early Stage Alzheimer’s Support
- Online Resources: www.alz.org
The Alzheimer’s Association also accelerates research toward treatment, prevention and a cure. The Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch is a free service that makes it easy for people with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, families and physicians to locate clinical trials based on personal criteria and location.
“Funding and volunteers for clinical trials are the biggest barriers to a future cure for Alzheimer’s,” said Fried. “TrialMatch is a simple and effective way for people to fight the disease and help make an impact for future generations.”
For more information on free support services and to connect with research please visit www.alz.org or call the 24/7 helpline at 800.272.3900.
