FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION OFFERS FREE VIRTUAL EDUCATION CLASSES FOR ALL PENNSYLVANIA RESIDENTS
HARRISBURG, PA, April 6,2020 – While the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the health of millions in this country and around the world, the novel coronavirus presents unique challenges for more than 5 million Americans, including 280,000 in Pennsylvania, living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
The Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Pennsylvania Chapter is offering free virtual education programs and online support groupsin the coming weeks to help all Pennsylvania caregivers and their families. The Alzheimer's Association offers a number of education programs that can help those living with Alzheimer’s and their families understand what to expect so they can be prepared to meet the changes ahead and live well for as long as possible.
“During this challenging time, it’s critical that all Pennsylvania caregivers have access to Alzheimer’s Association resources even if they cannot venture out,” said Sara Murphy, Vice President of Programs and Services. “The COVID-19 crisis is altering Americans’ daily lives, but the needs of Alzheimer’s caregivers cannot be put on hold. These online programs allow us to connect with caregivers and provide necessary information even amid the current crisis.”
Each virtual education program is approximately one hour and allows the audience to ask questions and engage with others going through the journey online.
Upcoming virtual education programs include:
- Purposeful Home Engagement during COVID -19 – April 9
- Legal and Financial Planning – April 16
- Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia – April 23
- 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s – April 30
- Healthy Living for your Brain and Body – May 7
- Rhythm, Music and the Brain – May 14
For a complete list of upcoming programs, support groups, or to register because space is limited, visit alz.org/crf. In addition to the virtual education classes, the Alzheimer’s Association offers online community resources at alz.org including ALZConnected®, a free online community where people living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, family and friends can ask questions, get advice and find support.
More than 16 million family and friends, including 677,000in Pennsylvania, provide unpaid care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in the United States. To help family caregivers navigate the current complex and quickly changing environment, the Alzheimer’s Association has also offered additional guidance to families at alz.org/COVID19.
The Alzheimer’s Association free, 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900) offers around-the-clock support for caregivers and families impacted by Alzheimer’s and all dementia.
Additional Facts and Figures: (alz.org/facts)
- Alzheimer’s disease is the 6thleading cause of death in Pennsylvania.
- More than 5 million Americans are living with the disease, including 280,000 in Pennsylvania— a number estimated to grow to as many as 320,000by 2025.
- More than 16 million family and friends, including 677,000 in Pennsylvania, provide unpaid care to people with Alzheimer's or other dementias in the United States.
- In 2019, friends and family of those with Alzheimer’s in Pennsylvaniaprovided an estimated 771 million hours of unpaid care, a contribution valued more than $10billion.
About the Alzheimer’s Association:
The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia®. Visitalz.org or call 800.272.3900.