Living in New England we get to experience the beautiful array of foliage colors that takes place every autumn starting in September. The red, orange and yellow leaves create a magnificent landscape and walking outdoors to see this spectacle of colors is not only great exercise but an invigorating view. One additional color to add to the spectrum this year is purple for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. Every 66 seconds someone in the US is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or related form of dementia. More than 5 million people in the US are currently living with Alzheimer’s Disease and 15 million Americans are providing unpaid care as their caregivers. Since the year 2000, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease have increased by 89%. Alzheimer’s Disease steals the memories of those with the diagnosis and often leave their caregivers overwhelmed and isolated. The Alzheimer’s Association is leading the way in the research to find a cure for this devastating disease. Additionally the Alzheimer’s Association is providing support services such as the nationwide 24 hour Help Line, caregiver support groups, and educational trainings for families and professionals. The Alzheimer’s Association continues to be a beacon of light for those diagnosed with this disease and their caregivers.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the nation’s largest fundraiser and awareness event about Alzheimer’s Disease. In the Merrimack Valley the walk takes place at Brickstone Square in Andover on September 17 with registration starting at 8:15 am. Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley has two teams this year ESMV Spirit 2017 and Elaina’s Song. Over the past 3 years the teams from Elder Services of The Merrimack Valley have raised more $8,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. If you would like to make a donation to one of the teams from Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley or start your own team please visit http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=10471&pg=team&team_id=413483
Click here for Elaina’s Song team page – http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=10471&pg=personal&px=12139334
There many beautiful colors this fall, let’s make one of them purple for those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
