Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia and accounts for 50- to 80-percent of dementia cases.

The mission of the Alzheimer’s Association 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.

As part of this mission to provide and enhance care and support for those affected by this disease, the Alzheimer’s Association, Mississippi Chapter, will be bringing their knowledge and expertise to Natchez on Tuesday.

A free workshop, Living with Alzheimer’s, will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Magnolia Classroom, located on the first floor of Natchez Regional Medical Center. Sara Murphy, program coordinator for the Alzheimer’s Association, will be the guest speaker.

When someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, friends and family have many questions.  What does the diagnosis mean? What kinds of plans need to be made? What resources are available to help? As the disease progresses, new questions reflect growing needs for skills, programs and services. This workshop will provide answers to the questions that arise in the middle stages of the disease.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there are 10 signs to look for in helping detect the early stages of the disease. Please know that these signs are for information only and not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified professional. They are:

– Memory loss that disrupts daily life.

-Challenges in planning or solving problems

-Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.

-Confusion with time or place

-Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships

-New problems with words in speaking or writing

-Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps

-Decreased or poor judgment

-Withdrawal from work or social activities

-Changes in mood and personality

This workshop is a great opportunity to get answers to your questions regarding Alzheimer’s and we hope to see you Tuesday. For more information or to register, please contact Sara Murphy at 601-987-0020 or e-mail, info@msalz.org.

Marc Taylor is a licensed professional counselor and program director of the Behavioral Health Unit at Natchez Regional Medical Center.