Go Purple for Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

June is nationally recognized as Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness month, and by some estimates, more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's is a disease that steals memory and currently has no cure.

"Alzheimer's can sometimes be difficult to diagnose correctly because cognitive problems can be the result of many different medical conditions," said Anupreet Kaur, MD at Berger Primary Care. "I encourage patients and family members to talk with their family primary care providers about cognitive assessments during patients' annual wellness visits to look for any possible symptoms for those most at risk."

Most people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older, the baby boomer generation is at the highest risk. In fact, the 2017 Alzheimer's disease Facts and Figures report states that "1 in 10 people age 65 and older has Alzheimer's."

To support this national awareness campaign, Berger Health System is hosting a community event featuring Dr. Kaur, with supporting presenters including Larry Schieber, Registered Pharmacist at Schieber Family Pharmacy, and Jessica Anderson on June 13th from 2:00-3:00pm. The event will take place in the Berger Hospital Community room. The presenters will share signs, caregiver tools, medication updates and safety strategies. To reserve your seat, please contact Pat Hughey at (740) 420-8231.

Community members are also encouraged to join the annual Alzheimer's Walk on August 26th at the Mary Virginia Crites Park in Circleville.

For more information about Alzheimer's or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kaur, call 740-420-8422.