According to the Alzheimer’s Association 5.5 million individuals are living with “Alzheimer’s dementia”, with Alzheimer’s disease being the 6th leading cause of death in the United States.  Since 2000, deaths from heart disease have decreased by 14% while deaths from Alzheimer’s disease have increased by 89%.  Dementia is one of the costliest conditions to society with total payments in 2017 for all individuals with Alzheimer’s or other dementias are estimated at $259 billion, with out-of-pocket spending expected to be $56 billion.  Alzheimer’s disease is having a major impact on many families and the occurrence is expected to grow considerably as the general population ages.  In an effort to increase awareness and knowledge regarding Alzheimer’s disease, the Letcher County Cooperative Extension Service Family and Consumer Sciences program along with Dr. Amy Kostelic, University of Kentucky Associate Extension Professor, April Stauffer, from the Kentucky Alzheimer’s Association and Barbara Baird, R.D., joined together to present an Alzheimer’s awareness program.  The program included the 10 most common symptoms to look for, the steps to an accurate medical diagnosis, the benefits to an early diagnosis and how eating a healthy diet helps the brain develop and function properly.  The participants received program materials and Keys to Embracing Aging- Brain activity evaluation and support contact information.  Evaluations showed:

•86% stated that the program increased their understanding of how integral a healthy brain is to survival, growth, and everyday success

•86% stated the program increased their understanding of how physical activity helps to boost brain health

•95% stated the program increased their understanding of the importance of mental stimulation to brain health

•95% stated the program helped them to realize the important link between a healthy diet and a healthy brain

•100% stated that the program increased their understanding of the powerful impact sleep can have on brain functioning and development

•100% stated that as a result of the program that they plan to improve their overall brain health

•95% stated that as a result of the program they plan to implement at least one strategy to improve brain health