The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter will be launching the fourth year of its Minds in Motion Early-Stage program in North Charlotte in January.

The six-month support group program is geared for those living in the “early-stage” of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, and their care partners. Both care partners and individuals diagnosed meet simultaneously in separate groups, which will be led and facilitated by trained Alzheimer’s Association volunteers.

The meetings will be held in North Charlotte the second Tuesday of the month: Jan. 9, Feb. 13, March 13, April 10, May 8 and June 12. Because all participants must be screened by Alzheimer’s Association staff before entering the program, the support group meeting location will not be disclosed.

“Our Early-Stage program offers a comfortable way to receive support and to socialize with others who are living with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Western Carolina Chapter. “This is a wonderful opportunity to engage participants in dialogue and to receive support from others affected by this disease. We encourage people to sign up now to get screened for the program.”

The Minds in Motion Early-Stage program also includes quarterly education programs and referrals to social engagement activities in the community. There is no cost to be involved, but an interest form and conversation with staff is required prior to participating in the program. Registration closes on Monday, Jan. 8. For more information, visit www.alz.org/northcarolina and click on Early-Stage to find the Interest Form link or contact the Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter at 1-800-272-3900 or at infonc@alz.org.

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

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

● More than five million Americans 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 100,000 people currently living with Alzheimer's disease 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.