Learn the warning signs of Alzheimer's

HURON — The Alzheimer's Association northwest Ohio chapter invites locals to attend a free community program, The 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's, from 1-2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15 at the Huron Public Library 333 Williams St. Huron. Pre-registration is recommended. To register, call the association's 24/7 helpline at 800-272-3900. The program shares with attendees: • The difference between the symptoms of normal aging and dementia • How to approach someone about memory concerns • The importance of early detection and benefits of a diagnosis • Possible tests and assessments for the diagnostic process • Free resources available from the association "Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia," according to an agency statement. "Dementia is a general term for loss of memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking abilities that are severe enough to interfere with daily life, while memory changes that occur during aging most likely do not." "Research has shown that cognitive changes in the brain can start 20 years or more before dementia symptoms occur," said Pam Myers, program director of the association's northwest and central Ohio chapters. There are 220,000 Ohioans older than 65 living with Alzheimer's disease, according to the association's 2023 facts and figures report. That number is expected to hit 250,000 by 2025. A total of 493,000 Ohio family members and friends provide 736 million hours of unpaid care each year. "If you or someone you know is experiencing memory difficulties or other changes in thinking skills, don't ignore them," Myers said. "See a doctor soon to determine the cause. Early diagnosis allows a person to get the maximum benefit from available treatments and provides an opportunity to volunteer for clinical trials or studies. It also provides time to plan for the future." Free educational programs are offered monthly throughout northwest Ohio. Visit alz.org/crf and search by ZIP code to find scheduled local programs. People can also call the northwest Ohio chapter, 419-537-1999, or the 24/7 helpline for more information.