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Senior Care in Houston TX: 2012 Walk to End Alzheimer's Disease – Join a Team and Walk!

Senior Care in Houston TX: 2012 Walk to End Alzheimer’s Disease – Join a Team and Walk!

Have you ever wanted to be part of something bigger than yourself? Well, here’s your chance to join the walk against one of the leading causes of death in the country. The original walk, then called Memory Walk, was started in 1989 and raised nearly $150,000.

Four years later, the event went national and raised $4.5 million.

Fast forward to 2011 when the event raised over $42 million under a new name: Walk to End Alzheimer’s. If you would like to donate your time in exchange for the possibility of eliminating the disease from the face of the planet, act now before more innocent lives are lost.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer, Alzheimer’s Disease is one of the most severe neurodegenerative disorders known to man. The illness causes amyloid plaques, or invasive masses, to form in many areas throughout the brain. These plaques kill off brain tissue slowly and cause sufferers to lose many brain functions one-by-one. The disease cannot be reversed or cured, and symptoms are usually identifiable by age 60.

One of the most common consequences of Alzheimer’s is dementia. When stricken with dementia, a person will eventually lose all cognitive abilities. It usually starts with forgetting minor things, then more severe memory loss occurs. Reasoning abilities vanish next, then physical functions are crippled. During the final stages, the victim will need care 24/7 and may not even remember who the caregiver is. Death is normally the final result after major damage is dealt to the brain.

How can I help by walking?

Walk to End Alzheimer’s is a nationwide event sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association to fundraise for and spread awareness of the disease. It involves a 2 to 3 mile walk along a predetermined route. The funds either go directly to support the financial burdens of victims or to medical research for a cure. About 600 communities participate in the walk every year in this country, and individuals of all ages come out to show their support. By joining the march, you can make a big difference too.

While it costs you nothing to join, the Alzheimer’s Association urges you to fundraise with friends and family for this noble cause. You will be provided a number of tools to help you with your mission. If you prefer, you can donate online as well.

What should I do if I’m interested in signing up?

All that is required is that you find a walk in your area. A link on the website will take you to a page to locate the nearest walk. When you’ve selected the walk you want to participate in, decide whether you’d like to form a team, join one, or go solo. No matter which option you choose, know that you will become part of something great.

If you have a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease and need help with senior care, contact At Your Side Home Care. Fill out our web form or call 832-271-1600.

Donna Wrabel, LMSW

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