Alzheimer’s and Brain Health Awareness Month

June 2021

“The day with the most light is the day we fight.” — Alzheimer’s Association

In our line of work, most, if not all of us, have seen how numerous lives are affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. More than 6 million people in the U.S. currently live with Alzheimer’s and the mortality rate is 1 in 3. Those are overwhelming statistics. Maybe your life has been personally touched — a parent, a sibling, a grandparent, a spouse, or maybe even you are dealing with cognitive and behavioral changes that concern you. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging and in fact, over 200,000 Americans under age 65 have early onset Alzheimer’s.

The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information. While our brains typically have some age-related decline, just as the rest of our body does, serious changes may be cause for concern. However, the person experiencing changes may not recognize there is a problem. Signs and symptoms may be more obvious to family, friends, and co-workers. More severe and advanced symptoms can include: disorientation, mood/behavior changes; confusion about events, time and place; unfounded suspicions; and eventually difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking.

Because earlier diagnosis and intervention methods continue to improve, anyone experiencing dementia-like symptoms should seek a doctor with expertise in evaluation of memory problems. Your local Alzheimer’s Association Chapter can assist with locating a physician. While there is currently no cure, early treatment may temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you want to shine a light on Alzheimer’s, get involved with The Longest Day Event on June 20^th, where people across the world will fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s through a fundraising activity of their choice. Choose from artistic endeavors, sports, gaming, dining, hobbies, and a variety of other means to support this day.

Be Well …

Arkansas Hospice Employee Wellness Council (EWC) Keeping you Well – Mind, Body, & Spirit

CLICK HERE to reach us!