Dover, Ohio – The Alzheimer's Association Greater East Ohio Area Chapter is inviting community members, caregivers, and others to attend a community forum on addressing Alzheimer's in Tuscarawas County.

The forum will be this Thursday, April 25th, from 6 to 8 pm at Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital. 

The forum will be led by Program Coordinator Amy Woodland. She says Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of all cases. She says Alzheimer's is a progressive brain disorder and not a normal part of aging. 

Following a presentation on memory loss, participants will have the opportunity to share thoughts and input on how the Alzheimer's Association can better serve people in Tuscarawas County. Check-in is at 5:45 pm, and light refreshments will be provided. Registration is requested by calling Karen Elliott at 234-284-2750 or emailing kelliott@alz.org.

The association estimates that more than 2,500 individuals are living with Alzheimer's in Tuscarawas County, and for each of those individuals, there are 2 to 3 people serving as unpaid caregivers. 

Program Director Karen Elliot says caregivers can find additional support through the association's Tuscarawas County caregiver group. The group meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 pm to share experiences, tips, information, and offer support in a setting facilitated by staff or trained volunteers. Meetings are held in the Reeves South Conference Room at Cleveland Clinic Union Hosptial. 

"Too often we hear from caregivers, 'I wish I'd known these resources were available sooner,'" Elliot says. "We need community leaders and volunteers to expand that reach and awareness."

About the Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association is the world's leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement or research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's. The Greater East Ohio Area Chapter offers support to individuals and their families through a wide variety of direct services and programs. For more information on the Alzheimer's Association, call 1-800-272-3900, or visit alz.org/eastohio.