NEW PHILADELPHIA (Tusco TV) - Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities officials are inviting the community to join them as they learn about a disease that’s more likely to impact the individuals and families they serve.

Community Connections Specialist Chris Sapp says the agency is teaming up with the Alzheimer’s Association for a free informational session that explores the connection between Alzheimer’s and individuals with disabilities. Sapp says people with certain disabilities like Down’s Syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s (because their bodies to produce excess plaques and proteins).

“By the age of 40, almost all people with Down’s Syndrome have excess plaques and proteins, which can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s dementia,” she says. “We see it happen at an earlier age when it’s paired with a Down Syndrome diagnosis, and it seems to move a little more rapidly.”

The session will be Tuesday, July 16th, beginning at 10 am at TuscBDD’s headquarters on Commercial Avenue SW in New Philadelphia. It will be led by Amy Woodland, program coordinator for the association’s Greater East Ohio Chapter. Sapp says Woodland is very knowledgeable and always willing to field questions. 

“She’s very open to questions because it never fails. Whenever you’re offered new information, sometimes that just generates new questions, so she encourages everyone who comes to bring your questions with you. If there’s any questions left unanswered by the end of the presentation, she is more than happy to answer them,” she says.

Sapp says seating for the program is limited and registration is required. She says people can RSVP through the end of the day Monday by calling 330-339-9769 or emailing csapp@tuscbdd.org.  

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