YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County residents are invited to take part in a community conversation on the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

A community forum, sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association Greater East Ohio Area Chapter is free to attend and will be held via webinar 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9. Pre-registration is required to receive the link to the meeting.

Rebecca Hall, the chapter’s program director, said the forum provides an opportunity for Mahoning County residents of all ages to learn about the disease, to find out about available educational and support resources and to share their experience with the disease. The event allows Alzheimer’s Association staff to listen to the needs in the community so the association can enhance its support of families.

“We understand the importance of early diagnosis, care and support and sharing information in our local communities,” Hall said. “This forum will provide knowledge, support and an opportunity for all constituents to share the needs of the county.”

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and fatal brain disease that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. In the United States, 5.8 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease and in Ohio there are 220,000 people 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease.

The Greater East Ohio Area Chapter makes care and support available to 60,000 people with Alzheimer’s disease in the chapter area, and an additional 250,000 people affected through their role as caregivers.

To register for the community forum, call 800.272.3900 or email kelliott@alz.org. Individuals needing immediate support can call the association’s 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

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