Program on warning signs of dementia set for July 24

The Alzheimer’s Association Hudson Valley Chapter will offer “Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters” program at 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 24, at its Poughkeepsie office at 2649 South Road, Suite 101.

Joan Carl, a community engagement manager for the chapter who will present the program, said it is important to know the difference between signs of normal aging and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

“There is ‘normal’ aging -- forgetting why you walked into a room, and then remembering. However, when someone walks into a room in their own house, and it is unfamiliar, that may be the beginning of a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia,” she said, noting these signs can be caused by a variety of factors, some of which are reversible. “It could be the result of medication interaction, vitamin deficiencies, lack of quality sleep, a stroke -- and a number of non-dementia-related conditions.”

Knowing the symptoms makes it easier to recognize the need for medical attention – whether it is to identify a condition that can treated, or to take advantage of an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is important because it gives the person with the disease a chance to take advantage of drug therapy that can be helpful in the early stages. It also gives them the opportunity to plan ahead and participate in clinical studies seeking a cure.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s Poughkeepsie office is wheelchair accessible. For more information, or to register for this program, call the Association at 800.272.3900.

This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

About the Hudson Valley Chapter

The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York, including Duchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. To learn more about the programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its 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. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.