November --National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

NEWS RELEASE    ---     From the Office of Representative Shelley Keeney - 156^th District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:	CONTACT:    Rep. Shelley Keeney
November 10, 2011	(573) 751-5912

November --National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

All of us have been touched by the devastating disease that is Alzheimer’s.  Over the past 15 years, we have learned much about Alzheimer’s, but we still do not have a cure for the progressive and fatal brain disease.  Calling attention to the number of individuals affected, promoting research to treat the symptoms, and ultimately working to find a cure is the reason November has been designated as National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

Scientists understand how Alzheimer’s attacks the brain, and they have many ideas on how to stop its progression.  Treatments for symptoms, combined with the right services and support, can make life better for the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer’s.  We’ve learned most of what we know about this disease in the last 15 years.  There is an encouraging worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset or prevent it from developing.

The purpose of this designation is to recognize the dignity of the men and women living with Alzheimer's, acknowledge the family members and caretakers, and continue our work to find a cure.  As a community, we can work together to make sure those in our area grappling with this disease know they are not alone in this fight to manage and ultimately prevent Alzheimer’s.

Families struggling with Alzheimer’s need the support of their friends and their community. The Alzheimer’s Association offers support groups for caregivers.  It offers training for people who want to lead support groups as well as opportunities for people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s to support one another with visits or phone calls.  They offer a 24-hour, toll-free hotline for information, referral and support at 1-800-272-3900.  Resources are also available through the Southeast Missouri office of the Alzheimer’s Association in Cape Girardeau.  They can be contacted at 573-332-8170.

Families can also receive support through state-funded programs. The Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) runs the Safe Return® Program for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who may be at risk of leaving their homes.  Individuals registered in the database receive a medical bracelet, necklace, key chain, wallet card or clothing tag for easy identification. 

DHSS can also help families find a program designed specifically towards the needs of residents with Alzheimer's disease. The department provides a directory and guide for special care units in the state.  Information on both of these programs is available at www.dhss.mo.gov or by calling 573-751-6400.  The fight against Alzheimer's disease can be won with commitment and involvement.  It may seem like a relentless disease, but we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by Alzheimer’s.

I have truly enjoyed being able to attend the various veterans events over the last week and having the opportunity to meet and visit with these wonderful folks.    

Please let me know if you would like to receive my weekly updates via electronic E-Mail, by sending an email with your name to: Shelley.Keeney@house.mo.gov

As always, I appreciate hearing your comments, opinions and concerns about state government.  Please feel free to contact me in Jefferson City at (573) 751-5912.  You may write me at: Shelley Keeney; Missouri House of Representatives; State Capitol -- Room 313; Jefferson City, MO 65101-6806 or email me.