To enhance services for people who have been diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia, the Western Carolina Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association is offering an Early Stage Memory Loss Support Group. The primary focus will be to create a group where early-stage participants can learn more about Alzheimer’s disease, feel comfortable expressing feelings and concerns, and begin planning for the future.
With improvements in medical technology and an increase in awareness about Alzheimer’s, more people will be diagnosed in the early stages. During this time, individuals often still have the ability to address issues and make decisions about their future. The Early Stage programs will offer a setting of support and hope for people with the disease and their caregivers.
Program manager for the Mountain Area Office Larry Reeves explains, “Our Early Stage Memory Loss Support Group does not take away memory loss. That is not possible. What we can do is provide the participants with tools, knowledge and ways of coping that will improve their daily lives and prepare them for the challenges ahead.”
The Mountain Area Office is currently taking names of potential participants for an initial program to be offered in Asheville. The program will meet once a week for six weeks beginning Sept. 22. E-mail Larry Reeves at larry.reeves@alz.org or Heidi Kimsey at heidi.kimsey@alz.org if interested, or call 254-7363 for more information.
Before you comment
The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.