The Alzheimer’s Association – Western Carolina Chapter will be hosting “Alzheimer’s Advocacy 101” on Tuesday, Jan. 22. The training session will take place from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Sharon Towers, 5100 Sharon Road in Charlotte.

Attendees will learn how to speak up for the needs and rights of people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. The session will cover the basics of grassroots advocacy; opportunities to advocate; and the workings of state and federal government.

The session is free, but registration is strongly suggested to ensure space for all attendees. Sign up online at https://tinyurl.com/alzadvocacy101 or by calling 800-272-3900.

“Our advocates play a key role in speaking up for the needs and rights for people with Alzheimer’s and their families,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Western Carolina Chapter. “Their collective efforts help persuade our elected officials to increase funding for research and to advance important legislative policies. We encourage those who are interested in making an impact to join us for this training.”

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.