There are more than 3,000 community members on Hawaii Island suffering from some form of dementia and many more who exhibit increasing forgetfulness.
There are more than 3,000 community members on Hawaii Island suffering from some form of dementia and many more who exhibit increasing forgetfulness.
The person struggles with this condition, wrestling with anger, suspicion, misunderstandings, isolation, confusion and an inability to cope.
The family members attempt to accommodate but can get lost in the ensuing quagmire of “what is happening” and the grief process.
The Alzheimer’s Association provides free services to the community throughout the year on the Big Island, with monthly support groups, counseling for family members, information and referral, in addition to regularly scheduled presentations.
Although there is no cost to families, funds are required to offer the various services and programs .
To continue its mission, the Alzheimer’s Association relies on various grants as well as proceeds from its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, scheduled for 8 a.m. Sept. 26 at Liliuokalani Park.
Registration begins at 7 a.m.
The walk is encouraging teams of walkers from churches, agencies, businesses, neighborhoods and from family members. Consider registering as an individual or as a team online at www.alz.org/walk.
The Alzheimer’s Association welcomes participants to walk in memory of those who have suffered from dementia.
For further information, call Chris Ridley, Alzheimer’s Association program coordinator for the Hawaii Island, at 443-7360. Register online at www.alz.org/walk.