Initiated in July 2023 with generous support from the Illinois Public Health Association (IPHA), the Alzheimer’s Disease Early Detection & Awareness Campaign Project represents a dedicated effort by MAHA in partnership with IPHA to provide comprehensive services in the realm of Alzheimer's. Through this program, MAHA offers a wide range of services, including prevention education, pre-screening, and linkage to resources including diagnosis and care. MAHA’s disease prevention and control professional staff will periodically organize public workshops, health fairs, social media and outreach events designed to reduce stigma and promote awareness and understanding of Alzheimer's. The program is taking a multifaceted approach aimed at fostering a more informed and supportive community in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer’s Disease:
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects brain function, particularly memory, thinking skills, and behavior. It is the most common type of dementia, characterized by symptoms such as memory loss, challenges with financial management and bill payment, difficulty completing familiar tasks, decreased judgment, misplacing items, and changes in mood, personality or behavior (CDC, 2020). Alzheimer's disease typically affects older adults, although it can also occur in younger individuals in rare cases. Early detection of Alzheimer's disease is crucial for timely intervention and effective management. Early diagnosis allows for the initiation of treatments to alleviate symptoms and slow disease progression, as well as access to support services and resources for planning future care needs. We recommend that individuals at risk undergo regular pre-screening and consult their doctors if they require medical assistance.
The Risk Groups:
- People over 65-year-old
- Women
- People having family history of Alzheimer’s Disease
- Individuals with cardiovascular disease (i.e., Heart disease, Heart attack, Stroke...etc.)
Services:
- Provide Education workshops and information
- Implement Prescreening
- Facilitate referrals and linkage to diagnoses and care
- Offer support to families affected by Alzheimer's
- Conduct social media campaign
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with speaking or writing
- Changes in mood or personality
- Challenges planning or problem-solving challenges
- Confusion with time or place
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
Resources:
MAHA’s Mental Health Clinic: 312-285-2287
24/7 Alzheimer's Association Helpline: 800-272-3900
Alzheimer's Disease Association Website: alz.org
Free Support Groups and Education Programs Website: alz.org/events/event_search
Alzheimer’s Education Workshop: Keep an eye on our social media account!
Digital Tool Kit | KnowAlz (knowalz-il.org): https://www.knowalz-il.org/digitaltoolkit
For more information, please contact:
Mei Kan, MPH
Tel# 312-225-8708
Email: [email protected]
