The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter has hired Elizabeth Novak as an education specialist for the Piedmont Region.

In her role, Novak will implement and evaluate programs and services for the general public, individuals with dementia, family members, caregivers and professionals in the Piedmont area of the Western Carolina Chapter. Prior to joining the organization, Novak was a graduate assistant in interpersonal violence prevention at the UNCC-Center for Wellness Promotion. She also interned for the Safe Alliance Advancement Team, Project M.O.R.E – Cabarrus Health Alliance and the Charlotte Community Research Scholars Program – UNCC Urban Institute. She graduated from UNC Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Health.

“Elizabeth [Novak] brings great health education experience to her role,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Western Carolina Chapter. “She is a wonderful addition to our team and will play a key role in bringing quality programs and services to those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.”

Additional Facts and Figures: (http://www.alz.org/facts/)

• One in 10 people age 65 and older (10 percent) has Alzheimer's dementia.

• An estimated 5.7 million Americans, including 170,000 North Carolina residents, are living with Alzheimer’s, a number estimated to grow to as many as 16 million by year 2050.

• Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer's are women.

• African-Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias as older whites.

• Hispanics are about one and one-half times as likely to have Alzheimer's or other dementias as older whites.

About the Alzheimer’s Association:

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s.

About the Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter:

The Western Carolina Chapter provides patient and family services, information and referral, education, and advocacy in the 49 central and western North Carolina counties that serves over 110,000 people currently living with Alzheimer's disease and their 330,000 caregivers in these counties. We provide a variety of services including a 24/7 Helpline, support groups, educational programs, and MedicAlert®. We offer opportunities to get involved and to make a difference. For more information about Alzheimer's disease or the Alzheimer's Association Western Carolina Chapter, visit www.alz.org/northcarolina or call (800) 272-3900. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.