WOODVILLE – For many Americans, having trouble handling money and paying bills could be a sign of something more than mere forgetfulness.
The Centers for Disease Control reported that the number of people living with Alzheimer’s disease is projected to double, in America, from 6.9 million to nearly 14 million by the year 2060. The illness is the most common type of dementia, which is the generalized term for memory-loss conditions that cause interference with daily living.
The Tyler County Agrilife Extension office is hosting a three-part series, which takes place at the Woodville Health and Rehabilitation Center, located at 102 North Beech. The series began on Tuesday, and started with the basics of Alzheimer’s, along with an overview of current research and treatments, as well as available resources.
The seminars begin at 3 p.m. and future installments will take place on Tuesday, April 8 and on Tuesday, April 22. The organizers are asking those interested to RSVP by calling Shannon Benton, with Agrilife, at 409-200-5091 or Elaine Jefferson at WHRC at 409-283-8284.
The seminar series is being sponsored by Texas A&M Agrilife, Tyler County Family and Community Health and the Alzheimer’s Association.
According to the county Agrilife office, understanding the disease itself is the first step toward making a difference.
An Agrilife representative stated that the series is intended for anyone who might be caring for a loved one, concerned about their own health, or simply wish to be informed.
The series will also cover 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease, which can include changes in memory, thinking and behavioral patterns. Another seminar, on April 22, will focus on healthy living, and how diet and nutrition, as well as exercise, and cognitive activities can assist in healthy aging.
The CDC stated that the cause for Alzheimer’s is still not yet fully understood, and there is likely not one single factor, but a combination of factors, including one’s genetic makeup, environmental factors, family history and lifestyle behaviors.
Alzheimer’s, or complications from it, is currently the seventh leading cause of death in America among adults, and the sixth leading cause of death among adults who are age 65 and older, according to the CDC.
The most recent figure of Americans living with Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, numbers at nearly 7 million, a statistic from 2024.
