Alzheimer's

There is so much that we don't understand about Alzheimer's disease. The good news is we have learned so much in recent years. And research is continuing in an effort to find ways to deal with the debilitating disease.

One group that spreads understanding and provides assistance to those who have Alzheimer's and their families and caregivers is the Southeast Missouri chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. The Southeast Missourian has published several articles in recent weeks about various aspects of the disease and the work of the Alzheimer's Association.

On Saturday, the annual Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk was held, involving some 500 individuals. Last year the memory walk raised $55,000. This year's goal was $60,000. Last year the association provided help-line support to 2,133 families in Southeast Missouri, presented 31 family and community education programs, trained 1,205 professionals in dementia care and was the host for nine support groups.

On Tuesday, World Alzheimer's Day will be observed. This is a day designed to raise global awareness of the disease and spread the most up-to-date information about Alzheimer's.

All those who have Alzheimer's, their families and their caregivers deserve our understanding and our support in any way we can provide it.