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Terri Littlejohn is just like millions of Americans who care
for their loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia at home.
“It’s easy for me, a blessing for me because I am married to
a man who accepts this as a norm for us when the change
occurred,” she said. “I still have days when it’s hard
sometimes to take care of her because you’ve got to make
sure you tend to her needs first sometimes before my
husband.”
African-American seniors are about twice as likely as whites
to have Alzheimer’s or
another dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter will hold
a virtual African American Community forum about dementia
and Alzheimer’s on Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Pamela Myers, program director for the Alzheimer’s
Association Northwest Ohio Chapter, said the Forum provides
an opportunity for Toledo residents to learn about the
disease, to find out about available educational and support
resources and to share their experience with the disease.
The event allows Alzheimer’s Association staff to listen to
the needs in the community so the agency can enhance their
support of families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease.
“We understand the importance of early diagnosis, care and
support and sharing information in our local communities,”
Myers said.
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and fatal brain disease
that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. In
the United States, 5.8 million Americans live with
Alzheimer’s disease and in northwest Ohio, 32,000 people
live with the disease and 96,000 are caregivers.
Individuals needing immediate support can call the
Association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. If you are
interested in attending the forum
contact Dakota Stone, program coordinator at dlstone@alz.org.
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