The Alzheimer’s Association northwest Ohio chapter will host an educational program highlighting the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Free to the community, the program, 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s, will be held from noon to 12:45 p.m., Monday, June 6, at Little Flower Catholic Parish, 5522 Dorr Street, Toledo.
Pre-registration is required and may be made by calling the association’s 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900.
“The early signs of Alzheimer’s or other dementia are often missed because they are confused with normal aging,” said Pam Myers, program director. “But early detection is very important because an early diagnosis and treatment can affect the quality of life down the road. We can help you learn how to recognize those early signs.”
If a loved one is experiencing memory loss that disrupts daily life, has difficulty in problem-solving or completing familiar tasks, becomes confused with time or place, has problems with remembering words, or withdraws from social activities or work, those could be early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, she explained.
This program will review the signs, along with advice on how to approach someone about memory concerns, the importance of early detection, benefits of a diagnosis and possible tests and assessments.
Recognizing the symptoms also can be helpful in identifying mild cognitive impairment (MCI), which causes cognitive changes that are serious enough to be noticed by the person affected and by family members and friends, but may not affect the individual’s ability to carry out everyday activities.
Individuals with MCI may have a higher risk of developing dementia.
“When it comes to both MCI and Alzheimer’s, early detection can make a major difference,” Ms. Myers said. “These conditions are not a part of normal aging. Join us to help identify them and learn what to do next.”
Anyone concerned about a loved one can contact the association at 419-537-1999 to schedule a care consultation or visit alz.org/nwohio to find resources.
