There are a number of health maladies that affect us as the aging process moves closer in our lives, but there is one that strikes the fear in all of us and that is the onset of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. I have personal knowledge of this disease as my grandmother was inflicted with it, and I know many Rotarians’ families have been, too. Perhaps some of us are impacted with the disease in our family right now even, as a caregiver. This meeting we were honored to have Judy Ardray Education and Care Specialist for our local Alzheimer’s Association as our guest speaker. Judy not only educated Breakfast Rotarians about the disease, but gave us a number of facts, strategies and responses to these deadly diseases.
So for the purpose of the integrity of The Beacon I do not want to state this is an all-inclusive list of facts of the disease, but simply a summary of what I would like to pass along to our readers. Judy taught us that the disease generally strikes those 65 years of age and older, and those with certain genetic markers. The disease onset has a number of symptoms that may not necessarily be indicators of actual Alzheimer’s and Dementia, but their manifestation may rise to a consideration for disease screening. Those symptoms include: difficulty in completing tasks, spatial misperception of surroundings, decreased accuracy of judgement, changes in mood, depression, misplacing items, and social withdrawal. Note: Increased attendance at Breakfast Rotary meetings has been known as an unofficial cure from at least the social withdrawal aspect, so I expect now that we learned that, our future attendance at our Rotary meetings will likely improve…
Judy states there is no cure for the disease, but research is on the way. She encourages us to explore her website at ALZ.org for more details. Judy says that the website is a great resource of support for families who are facing challenges of a loved one inflicted with the disease. She even touts that there are online classes and seminars that are free.
On a lighter note, Judy tells us that the disease may be prevented, yes prevented! Maintaining a controlled blood pressure, maintaining a heart healthy lifestyle and yes, socialization, are all contributory towards delaying the onset of the disease. Judy also seeks volunteers and fund raising for the Association’s efforts.
Thank You Judy for joining us and for being there for those persons who benefit from your support!