Understanding Alzheimer’s: Free program at Riverside Regional Library to help families recognize early signs

The Alzheimer’s Association is hosting a program titled “Understanding Alzheimer’s” at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 20, at Riverside Regional Library in Jackson that aims to help families understand the differences between normal aging and concerning behaviors, common warning signs, the importance of early detection and treatment and what to expect after a diagnosis.

According to the National Institute on Aging, Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately six million Americans aged 65 and older and is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States.

“Alzheimer’s causes changes in memory, thinking and behavior that are not normal aging,” Lydia Dover, Alzheimer’s Association programs manager for Southeast Missouri, said in a news release. “Oftentimes, these changes are noticed more by friends and family than they are by the individual themselves.”

Registration is encouraged but not required. For more information, call (843) 243-8141.