January 3, 2025, press release from the the Alzheimer’s Association: TOLEDO, OH, Jan. 3, 2025—During Financial Wellness Month this January, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging individuals and families to make financial plans that will create some security in preparing for an unexpected crisis of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. One in nine Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease – that’s nearly 7 million Americans across the country and 236,200 in Ohio. Dementia not only takes a tremendous physical toll on diagnosed individuals, but the costs associated with the disease can be overwhelming and put a huge economical strain on families. Disease-related costs can jeopardize a family’s financial security, and many families and caregivers make enormous personal and financial sacrifices. 

November 20, 2024, Press Release from the Alzheimer’s Association: TOLEDO, OH, Nov. 20, 2024—The Alzheimer’s Association has scheduled a free, virtual program, “Strategies for Surviving the Holidays” on Tues., Dec. 3 at 12:30 p.m. or 6:30 p.m. Pre-registration is recommended. To register, call the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. Free educational programs and support groups are offered monthly throughout Northwest Ohio. Visit www.alz.org/crf and search by zip code to find scheduled local programs.

October 29, 2024, Press Release from the Alzheimer's Association: TOLEDO, OH, Oct. 28, 2024—The time will change in Ohio on Nov. 3, falling back one hour. This signifies the shortening of light every day, which can present challenges for those who are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementia, as well as their families and caregivers. Changes in the season and thus the amount of daylight may cause confusion and behavior challenges for those impacted by Alzheimer’s or another dementia. “Families may notice that their loved one is increasingly confused about the day or time, and that confusion could make them wander,” said Pam Myers, senior director, programs for the Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio and Central Ohio Chapters. “In addition, as it will get darker every day in the fall and winter, those living with Alzheimer’s may experience sundowning, even if they haven’t before.”

October 17, 2024, Press Release from the Alzheimer's Association: TOLEDO, OH, Oct. 17, 2024—1.4 million people nationwide live with Lewy body dementia (LBD) according to the Lewy Body Dementia Association. The critical need for more attention, research, and treatments for people with dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). DLB is the second most common type of progressive dementia. There are no treatments that can slow or stop the brain cell damage caused by dementia with Lewy bodies. Current strategies focus on helping with symptoms.

September is World Alzheimer’s Month. And recently, two new risk factors for the disease were identified. Dr. Caldwell said they’re not entirely sure why these two health issues could play a role in a person’s risk for Alzheimer’s. However, it’s possible vision loss could impact a person’s sensory input, meaning their brain is not processing as much information. Vision loss could also make it harder for an individual to exercise, socialize with family and friends, or do other stimulating activities. As for those with high levels of LDL cholesterol, Dr. Caldwell explains that it’s not good for our heart and blood vessels. Our brain has a lot of small blood vessels, so they can be more easily impacted by things like cholesterol.

Alzheimer's and other dementias take more lives in the United State than breast and prostate cancers combined and the Northwest Ohio Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association is holding a series of walks to fund research to help end the disease.

The Lima Rotary Club is learning how to deal with some of the challenges of Alzheimer's and dementia. An expert from Kessler Estates gave a presentation to the club on effective communication with people who have a disease that impacts their memory and cognitive function. Difficulty understanding and being understood can be one of the biggest sources of stress for caregivers and their loved ones. Instead of getting frustrated, experts say to keep the conversation positive, speak slowly, and use clear and simple language. It's also important to be an active listener.

The Alzheimer's Association  are looking for participants to join numerous walks around our area this month to raise money to help fight the disease.  

LIMA, OH (WLIO) - A local senior living facility raised money to fight a disease that impacts many of their residents.