Press Release
ROCKINGHAM — The Alzheimer’s Association-Western Carolina Chapter, in partnership with East Rockingham Senior Center, is launching a monthly education series, "Wellness Wednesday: Brain Health, Alzheimer’s Awareness and Caregiving Support," to help people better understand Alzheimer’s, reduce their risk of cognitive decline and offer helpful tips to caregivers.
This series will run from March 26 through Oct. 29, taking place on the fourth Wednesday of each month at East Rockingham Senior Center, 135 Safie 6th St., Rockingham.
Currently, there are more than 373,000 caregivers in North Carolina providing care to more than 210,000 living with Alzheimer’s. In Richmond County there is a 12.2% Alzheimer’s disease prevalence rate in their age 65 and older population.
“The goal with this program is to offer a variety of topics on Alzheimer’s and other dementias that cover risk reduction to navigating the disease with a loved one,” said Katherine Lambert, CEO, Alzheimer’s Association-Western Carolina Chapter. “It’s a complex disease and we want to ensure more people have the tools and support they need. We are grateful to the East Rockingham Senior Center for providing the opportunity to bring this important education to Richmond County and surrounding areas.”
Photo courtesy Alzheimer’s Association
The first three programs in the series include:
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia (March 26 | 12-1:30 p.m.): Learn about the difference between Alzheimer's and other dementias, stages, risk factors and more.
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s (April 23 | 12-1:30 p.m.): Alzheimer’s and other dementias cause memory, thinking and behavior problems that interfere with daily living. Learn how to recognize common signs of the disease; 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, and Alzheimer’s Association resources.
Dementia Conversations: Driving, Doctor’s Visits, Legal and Financial Planning (May 28 | 12-1:30 p.m.): Learn to have honest and caring conversations about common concerns when someone begins to show signs of dementia and as they progress in the disease.
Remaining programs in 2025 include:
Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body (June 25)
Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances (July 23)
Foundations of Caregiving and Supporting Independence (Aug. 27)
Effective Communications Strategies and Responding to Behaviors (Sept. 24)
Caregiving During the Holidays (Oct. 29)
Courtesy Alzheimer's Association
Programs are free and open to the general public, but registration is required. To learn more and register visit tinyurl.com/HamletWellness or call (800) 272-3900.
“We are deeply committed to providing resources and support to families facing Alzheimer's and other cognitive impairments,” said Kimberly Hotter, director, East Rockingham Senior Center. “Our mission is to help keep families together by offering education, guidance, and a strong community network, ensuring that no one faces this journey alone."
