The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter is hosting two educational workshops at Flint Groves Baptist Church (2017 E Ozark Avenue) in March.

The first one – “Navigating a Dementia Diagnosis: What Now? What Next?”– will take place on Thursday, March 21 from 3:00-4:30 p.m. This program covers understanding Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and the diagnostic process; and effective strategies for coping with day-to-day challenges of Alzheimer’s. To register, visit tinyurl.com/ALZNavMar21. For questions or to register over the phone, call 1-800-272-3900.

The second one – “Navigating a Dementia Diagnosis: What’s Your Plan? Who’s on Your Team?” – will take place on Thursday, March 28 from 3:00-4:30 p.m. This program includes a panel of experts that will cover important things for you to plan after a diagnosis; creating a care team; and tips, resources, and services available for individuals and their families. To register, visit tinyurl.com/ALZNavMar28. For questions or to register over the phone, call 1-800-272-3900.

The two-part workshop is free and open to individuals with a recent diagnosis and/ or in the early stages of Alzheimer's and related dementia diseases, their families and care-partners. General public interested in learning more about planning, resources, and services that are available may also attend. Registration is strongly suggested to ensure space for all attendees.

“The diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is life-changing and leads to many questions so this program is invaluable for recently diagnosed individuals and their care partners,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Western Carolina Chapter. “We want them to know that they are not alone and that we are here for them from the beginning of a diagnosis and throughout their journey with Alzheimer’s or 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.