Alzheimer's Awareness Month reminds us that we need to do more to help those affected: Nancy Udelson (Opinion)



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Nancy Udelson, guest columnist, is President and CEO of the Cleveland Region Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. She and her husband, Dr. Les Rosenberg, reside in Beachwood.

Nancy Udelson, President and CEO of the Cleveland Alzheimer's Area Section.

A few weeks ago, the Washington Capitals won the Stanley Cup of the National Hockey League and hoisted it on the ice. After the match, the Capitals attack T.J. Oshie found his father, Tim, and hugged him – hoping that the memories of the game and those moments spent together on the ice will not go away. Can his father's memories of the ultimate goal last a lifetime? T.J. I do not know because Tim Oshie was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease five years ago.

Memories Do not you cherish them one of the greatest joys of life?

June is Alzheimer's and Brain Disease Awareness Month, a moment dedicated to public awareness of Alzheimer's disease, available local resources and how individuals can live. 39 to involve to support the cause. This month, the Alzheimer's Association emphasizes the crucial importance of early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Early diagnosis offers many benefits, including access to more effective medical and lifestyle interventions and the ability to play an active role in planning for the future.

The Alzheimer's chapter of Cleveland offers free programs and services to support all forms of dementia, including a 24/7 help line (800-272-3900). ); coaching in dementia care; SHARE, a six-session in-person counseling program that allows people with dementia at an early stage to lead a full life; early stage services; caregiver support groups; social engagement programs; community and online education programs; and vocational training programs.

Bob Fitzpatrick, of North Ridgeville, found that part of his new trip includes the participation of his wife, Jan, in the first stage group of the chapter that meets at Westlake (other groups meet in the five counties).

"My impression about the group (members) is that they are so open and honest, we were very welcome," he said. Bob Fitzpatrick has early vascular dementia.

"I was suspicious about what we were going to do," Fitzpatrick said of this first group meeting, but participants "made me feel comfortable".

And this level of comfort is reflected in a new openness to his illness. Fitzpatrick says, "I have no qualms about telling anyone that I have dementia, that's the confidence I've gained from the group." He even reports better communication with his doctor.

Whether you are being diagnosed or have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, the Alzheimer's Association is the leader in care, support, education and commitment for people with memory and thinking disabilities.

Last week – June 21, the longest day of the year – a flagship campaign of the Alzheimer's Association, The Longest Day, came to an end. More than 100 local teams and individuals participated in a myriad of ways, including playing bridge, selling cookies, cycling and running, to name a few. We urged voters to remember loved ones affected by Alzheimer's disease at dusk that day. The campaign was entirely focused on love. love for those who are affected.

This fall, three Walk to End Alzheimer events will take place: in Oberlin (September 22nd), Kirtland (September 30th) and Cleveland (October 13th). We expect hundreds of teams and thousands of walkers. Visit www.alz.org/walk to learn how you or your company can get involved.

Like Capitals hockey player T.J., the families we serve every day want to make sure their loved ones keep all their memories as long as possible. The future of this disease belongs to us. We all want better things for our children and grandchildren. Visit www.alz.org to learn more about Alzheimer's disease, its warning signs, the importance of early detection and diagnosis, and more.

Much is being done to improve the care and support of all those affected, and the Alzheimer's Association is proud to be the leader in the fight to end Alzheimer's disease. Join us.

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Readers are invited to submit articles on topics of regional or general interest. Send your 500 word essay for consideration to Ann Norman at [email protected]. The essays should include a brief biography and a portrait of the writer. Trials refuting the topics of today are also welcome.

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