The Alzheimer’s Association - Western Carolina Chapter and Alzheimer's Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter are calling on North Carolinians to turn the state purple for Alzheimer’s on Thursday, March 14. The date marks North Carolina Advocacy Day 2019 when hundreds of advocates from around the state will convene in Raleigh to support the fight against Alzheimer’s.

The event – which takes place from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – will be an opportunity for the public and those affected by Alzheimer’s to take action and speak up for the needs and rights of people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families. Attendees will learn about the legislative process; meet face-to-face with elected officials; share their personal story with key decision makers; and bring awareness to the importance of the Alzheimer’s Association’s public policy priorities.

“Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America. This is why we unrelentingly advocate for public policies that increase quality of life and support all those affected,” said Katherine L. Lambert, CEO of the Western Carolina Chapter. “We urge as many people as possible to join us for our North Carolina Advocacy Day. By working together, we are making an impact.”

There is no charge to participate, but registration is required to ensure an accurate headcount. No prior experience required, but attendees will be asked to participate in a training call prior to the event. Sign up at tinyurl.com/AlzNCAdvocacyDay2019 or by calling 800-272-3900.

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.