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Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 14 May 2019 14 May 2019

Albuquerque, NM – May 14, 2019 - Families in Truth or Consequences, NM and surrounding communities who face Alzheimer’s disease will have access to a free class offered by the Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter.

“The Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease” is a FREE presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter and will be held Tuesday, June 11 from 2:00-3:00pm. The event will be hosted at the NM State Veterans Home, 992 S. Broadway St., Truth or Consequences, NM 87901.  The presentation is free.

To register, or for more information, call 1-800-272-3900 or email Alexis Ramirez (Programs Volunteer Case Manager) at alramirez@alz.org . For directions, call 575-647-3868.

“The Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease” is designed primarily as an introduction for non-professional or family caregivers who are seeking a basic knowledge of Alzheimer’s disease and an overview of support resources that are available in their area; so that they might better understand how to care for their loved-one or care-recipient.  It will give the caregiver information about the core programs provided by the New Mexico chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, descriptions of the other educational classes that it provides statewide, all free of charge.

Class size is limited and they fill up quickly.  Call now to register.  Participants of “Skills for Dementia Caregiving” may be reimbursed for the cost of having others tend to their loved one while they attend the classes.

Alzheimer’s disease is a threat that is getting worse.  Today, 5.8 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 200,000 under the age of 65. By 2050, the total number is expected to rise to 14 million.  It is the 6th leading cause of death in the USA*.

Currently, there is no prevention, proven treatment or cure for Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s takes a devastating toll – not just on those with the disease, but on entire families.   In our own state, 41,000 New Mexicans are suffering from Alzheimer’s.  They are cared for by 108,000 unpaid caregivers, many of whom are members of their own families.

The Alzheimer's Association is the largest and most impactful nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's and dementia science in the world. Currently, the Association is investing over $165 million in more than 450 projects in 25 countries.

Cognitive Decline is a strong indicator of future dementia, and according to figures released by the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, it is a growing burden in New Mexico.  As of 2016, 12.5 percent (or 1 in every 8) New Mexicans 45 and older report confusion or memory loss happening more often or getting worse (“subjective cognitive decline”); 33% of those with memory problems live alone, and for those with worsening memory problems, 58.2 percent say it has created “functional difficulties”.  Nearly 54% of those with memory problems have not spoken to their doctor or healthcare professional about it.  If you feel like you may be experiencing memory issues, speak with your doctor about it.

If you need help, call us. Our 24/7 Helpline is available any time, day or night for support or information at 1 (800) 272-3900. 

The Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter offers many free services and resources to caregivers and families facing the disease: support groups, care consultations, respite, educational presentations, safety programs, information and referral and more. 

We have five branch offices in the state: Albuquerque (Main Office), Santa Fe (Northeastern New Mexico), Farmington (Northwestern New Mexico), Roswell (Southeastern New Mexico) and Las Cruces (Southwestern New Mexico). All offices may be contacted by calling 1 (800) 272-3900. 

*Source for all statistics: The 2019 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report at www.alz.org/facts.

About the Alzheimer’s Association®

The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of 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®. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.