The Lincoln Center, 1519 Water St. (Metro Wire photo)

Dementia Awareness Week sheds light on a growing concern

April 30, 2024

By Patrick Lynn

Dementia Awareness Week is an annual event aimed at raising awareness and understanding of dementia, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

This year, the week-long campaign runs from May 13-17 and will feature a series of events organized by the Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) aimed at raising awareness and understanding of dementia.

The week will commence with the Reelin’ in the Memories fishing event on Saturday, May 11, designed for Portage County residents with dementia and their caregivers. The event will provide all necessary equipment and lunch, and while attendance is free, space is limited, requiring registration.

On Tuesday, May 14, from 3-5 p.m., the ADRC will offer the Virtual Dementia Tour, an immersive experience that simulates dementia to provide insight into the challenges faced by individuals with the condition. Registration is mandatory, and participants are advised to allocate 20 minutes for the tour, arriving early for their scheduled time.

A highlight of the week will be the Caregiver Roadmap Panel from 1:30 to 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 15. This panel will feature experts from various stages of the Caregiver Roadmap, offering guidance and answering questions for caregivers.

Attendees can also look forward to a presentation on Dementia and Brain Health basics from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 16. The week will conclude with a presentation by Dr. Art Walaszek on “Addressing Depression and Anxiety in Persons Living with Dementia” from 10-11 a.m., followed by a screening of the movie “Still Alice” at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 17.

To show support for Alzheimer’s, the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement, community members are encouraged to wear purple on Friday, May 17.

While registration is required for the Virtual Dementia Tour and Reelin’ in the Memories, RSVPs are appreciated but not necessary for the other events. For more information or to register, please contact the ADRC at 715-346-1401.