Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease on Nov. 7

Rhode Islanders who want to learn more about Alzheimer’s disease are invited to attend a free educational program on Wednesday, November 7 at the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island (401 Elmgrove Avenue, Providence).  The “Alzheimer’s Disease from A to Z” program is sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) and Senior Care Concepts. Registration and breakfast begin at 8:30 a.m., with the program running from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. 

“Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 23,000 Rhode Island residents and that number is growing,” said Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr., AFA’s president and CEO. “This program is designed to raise Alzheimer’s awareness, educate individuals about the disease, and teach them practical steps that can help them plan for care as they age.  We invite everyone to attend.”

Expert panelists will teach participants about the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, and provide a brief overview of what the disease is and how it affects people.  Strategies about how to raise and communicate concerns about a loved one’s memory issue will be discussed, as well as how to plan and prepare a road map as you age.

Free, confidential memory screenings will also be offered.  Licensed social workers will receive continuing education credit.

“Health and wellness are important to all of us,” said Molly Fogel, LCSW, AFA’s director of education and social services, “which is why we’re helping people be proactive and get information that can help them, regardless if they’re currently affected by Alzheimer’s disease.  After all, knowledge is power.”

Registration for the program is free and open to all.  Residents can register by calling AFA at 866-232-8484 or visiting AFA’s website at alzfdn.org and clicking on the “events calendar” tab at the top of the page.

 Submitted by Molly Fogel