Albuquerque, NM – June 28, 2019 - Families facing Alzheimer’s disease will have access to  free classes in Farmington and Alamogordo, 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 Wednesday July 17 from 10:00am-12:00 noon. The event will be hosted at San Juan Center for Independence, 1204 San Juan Blvd., Farmington, NM 87401. The class is free and open to all citizens of Farmington and surrounding communities.

For more information, contact Waldon Lynch at 800-272-3900 or wllynch@alz.org. The event is free of charge. For directions call 505-326-3680.

“The Basics of Alzheimer’s Disease” is an educational program designed as a general overview for those families who may be facing Alzheimer’s disease, or anyone else who may be interested in learning more about the subject.  This free, one-hour program explores the relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, examines what happens in a brain affected by the disease, details the various stages and identifies risk factors.  It will also discuss the current state of research into the disease and offer resources for those affected by it.

“Communications and Behaviors” is a FREE presentation by the Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter and will be held Tuesday, July 23 from 1:00-2:00pm. The event will be hosted at Alamogordo Senior Center, 2201 Puerto Rico Ave, Alamogordo NM 88310.  The class is free and open to all citizens of Alamogordo and surrounding communities.

The presentation emphasizes the importance of communication in caring for people with Alzheimer’s.  As people with Alzheimer’s disease progress further into their dementia, it can be increasingly difficult for their caregivers and loved ones to communicate effectively with them and to understand the behavioral expression they seem to rely on instead of “using their words”.  This presentation will help caregivers gain an understanding of how the disease affects their loved ones behavior and ability to communicate, and identify effective strategies for addressing the behaviors and communicating appropriately.

To register or for more information call 1-800-272-3900 or email Alexis Ramirez (SW Regional Program Manager, Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter) alramirez@alz.org. For directions call 505-647-3868.

Class size is limited and they do fill up quickly. 

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 living with Alzheimer’s and there are 108,000 unpaid dementia caregivers, many of whom are family members.

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.

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.