Residents can learn how people affected by Alzheimer\u2019s will be helped by a proposed state plan to address Alzheimer\u2019s at a Kent Town Hall from 2:30-4 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23 at the Kent Senior Activity Center, 600 E. Smith St.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The Alzheimer\u2019s Association Washington State Chapter will host the town hall to help residents learn about the draft of the Washington State Plan to Address Alzheimer\u2019s to be given to the Legislature in 2016.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The draft plan is meant as a guide to help and resources for more than 100,000 individuals living with Alzheimer\u2019s and other dementias in Washington.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Caregivers like Todd Larson feel the strain and need for more support. Larson cared for his wife, diagnosed with Alzheimer\u2019s at 45, for five years before she died last March. He will serve as a panelist for the Kent Town Hall to share his experience as a caregiver and advocate for increased support.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n
The state plan will help public and private sectors organize to address the growing population of diagnosed individuals in Washington, which is expected to grow to 140,000 in just a few years. It addresses meeting the needs of caregivers, reducing stigma associated with dementia, raising awareness, increasing availability and affordability of long-term services and it also supports increasing the quality and availability of paid aides.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n