Alzheimer's Association Hosts Annual African American Caregiver Forum

Rowena Groves Rye, Alzheimer's Association

On Saturday September 23, the Alzheimer's Association will host "Legacy of Love" at Seattle Mental Health in Seattle. This event will be the first of its kind in the Pacific Northwest. 

The African American Caregiver Forum will address the unique concerns of African American individuals and families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or a related memory loss disorder. This free event is sponsored by the City of Seattle Human Services Department, Aging and Disability Services, the Mayor's Council for African American Elders, the African American Elders Program of Catholic Community Services, and Seattle Mental Health and Senior Services.

Dr. Lauren Bonner Lee, an African American psychiatrist and Alzheimer's researcher, will deliver the keynote address and provide the latest information about Alzheimer's disease, its diagnosis, treatment, and current research in the field.

Recent studies show that African Americans are at greater risk for Alzheimer's. Diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, all of which are more prevalent in the African American community, increase the risk. The forum will support, enlighten, present solutions and provide resources that can help.

To register online for the forum, go to www.alzwa.org or call Rowena Rye at 206-363-5500. 

 Rowena Groves Rye is Director of Community Resources of the Alzheimer's Association, Western and Central Washington State Chapter, 12721 30th Avenue NE - Suite 101,Seattle, WA 98125

Photo: Alzheimer's Association