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At the end of April, the Alzheimer’s Association announced that more than 7 million Americans  are now living with Alzheimer’s disease — a number expected to grow as our population ages. But there is reason for hope . At the heart of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the Promise Garden , where each flower represents how we are all impacted by the disease. This May, we’re inviting you to help “Grow Our Garden of Hope”  — by planting seeds of change, nurturing a movement, and blooming with possibility. Here’s how you can grow your impact this May: Plant your seed: 🌼 Raise $50  and receive a bamboo blossom kit for your windowsill - a daily reminder of the hope you're cultivating. Water your garden: 👕 Raise $100  to earn your official 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt ! Watch your garden bloom:  🤍 Raise $300  and receive an exclusive White Stanley Cup  — a symbol of the White Flower from our Promise Garden Ceremony, representing hope for a future without Alzheimer’s. **Incentives must be earned through additional funds raised between May 12-31. Each participant is eligible for ONE T-shirt, which will be shipped the week of the Walk.  Our families, our economy and our communities continue to feel the impact of this disease. But every dollar you raise fuels research, provides care, and brings us one step closer to ending Alzheimer’s.  Thank you for being part of this movement. Together, we will grow hope  – and walk toward a world without Alzheimer’s. Register at alzheimers-illinois.org/walk

Doreen’s mother, Barb, has lived at White Oaks at McHenry (Memory Care Community) for about two years. Doreen has three siblings: Victoria, Matt and Lenny. Through visits to the community, the family has bonded with the residents, team members and resident family members. They visit regularly and have developed a following. Residents are attracted to the friendship, laughter and kinship that continues to grow over time. The group often works on projects and has created bird feeders along with other fun projects. When they are at work in the community, everyone wants to join the fun and to Doreen, “They have become my family.” In December of 2024, one of our very artistic residents named Randee approached Doreen and wanted a new project to work on. Randee suggested making bracelets. With no idea how to put these together, Doreen found herself on YouTube and taught herself how to make beaded bracelets. The pair started out with one trip to a local craft supply box store and from there, the movement began. The two gathered twice a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays and with each gathering, the group grew. Additional family members of residents, grandchildren and residents of all abilities wanted to take part in this crafting adventure. Doreen was able to make adjustments for residents, such as counting out the beads beforehand or organizing colors so persons of all abilities could complete a bracelet. Doreen did not initially start this journey as a fundraiser. It was purely out of her desire to share joy throughout the community. At some point, everyone was perhaps a bit surprised at how beautiful the bracelets turned out. Passerbys were interested in buying the bracelets right off the wrists of residents and a lightbulb went off. Doreen decided to bring the project to The Longest Day on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Association.   She brought the idea to Debbie France, Executive Director & Director of Nursing at White Oaks. Debbie embraced the initiative. A flyer was created to support the sales, and ‘Vohasek and Friends Made from the Heart Fundraiser” took flight. Doreen began with a goal of earning $5000 for the cause and has had support from her siblings, her husband and many family members of White Oaks. Some have given funds or purchased beads to donate, others have donated time crafting and still others have physically welded and donated the jewelry stands. It has been inspiring to witness a community filled with passion come together for a cause. Doreen’s family fights in memory of their late father, Leonard, who passed of Alzheimer’s Disease and in honor of their mother, Barb and all of the friends they’ve come to love at White Oaks.  With a lofty goal of $5000 to raise, Doreen has been shopping local deals and steals to make the most of the fundraising. All sales are donated, with no funds being used to pay for supplies. With this in mind, she has been traveling the crafting circuit for several months and this is where Doreen met a woman, she now calls her angel. Nicole met Matt, the family goofball, in the beading aisle and was greeted with “Save some beads for the rest of us!” It didn’t take long for the fundraiser to become the topic of conversation and Nicole was inspired to contribute in a BIG way. She donated completed pieces to include 200 bracelets, 100 earring sets and two boxes with about 50 pounds of beads in each box. She has attended bead sales and contributed shopping bags and supplies such as elastic to complete the bracelets. The fundraiser also spread to local McHenry retailers and the bracelets are on sale at The Trend Celler on Riverside Drive. Store owner, Carol Chrisman, owns another boutique and donated necklaces which Doreen has since taken apart and created stunning bracelets from.  The movement continues to make an impact and watching from the sidelines as it creates inclusion, friendship and purpose has been a gift to the entire community. In a short time, sales have reached $1500 and there are still several scheduled events to come. White Oaks is simply housing the venue for creative crafting, while the individuals bonded like family are responsible for this incredible adventure. Thank you to Doreen, Victoria, Matt, Lenny, and the countless others who have given in one way or another in support of the work of the Alzheimer’s Association. Create your own fundraiser TODAY and outshine the darkness of Alzheimer's. The Longest Day® is the day with the most light – the summer solstice. Join us to fight Alzheimer's through a fundraising activity of your choice on a day that works for you. The funds you raise advance the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer?pagename=the_longest_day

As the popularity of Ozempic continues to surge for its use in managing type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss, new questions are emerging about the drug’s potential role in preventing or slowing Alzheimer’s disease. To help separate fact from speculation, Hadi Finnerty, Senior Manager of Education & Community Volunteers at the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, joined WGN radio host Lisa Dent to discuss the latest research and what it might mean for the future of Alzheimer’s treatment https://tinyurl.com/kpmn69r6 . Recent studies have hinted that semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic—may have some impact on reducing Alzheimer’s-related brain changes. However, Finnerty urged caution. “While these early findings are certainly worth watching, the studies we’re seeing right now have very small sample sizes,” she told Dent. “They’re not large or long-term enough to give us confidence in the results just yet.” Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, has shown promise in animal models for reducing brain inflammation and potentially slowing the accumulation of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. But as Finnerty emphasized, translating those results to real-world human outcomes remains a significant challenge. Finnerty stressed that while the idea of a widely available medication reducing Alzheimer’s risk is exciting, people should not see Ozempic as a preventive treatment for cognitive decline—at least not yet. “There’s a difference between early biological signals and actual clinical benefits for people living with or at risk for Alzheimer’s,” she explained. She encouraged listeners to stay informed but cautious, especially as buzz around the drug continues to grow in media and online communities. Larger, more rigorous clinical trials are needed before doctors can say with any certainty whether Ozempic or similar medications can truly help in the fight against Alzheimer’s. In the meantime, Finnerty underscored the importance of established brain health practices—such as regular exercise, healthy diet, social engagement, and controlling chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. The Alzheimer’s Association continues to track developments in this area and supports research that explores all promising avenues for treatment and prevention. For more information, support services, or to learn how to get involved in clinical trials, visit www.alz.org/illinois or call their 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900.

This Summer, Illinois will unite once again to take steps toward a world without Alzheimer’s. The 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s is set to take place across 23 communities statewide, bringing together families, caregivers, and supporters for a day of remembrance, hope, and action. A Day of Meaning and Movement Each walk kicks off with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony, where participants carry flowers of different colors—blue for those living with Alzheimer’s, yellow for caregivers, purple for those we've lost, and orange for supporters. This visual tribute symbolizes our collective commitment to ending the disease. Get Involved Whether you're walking in honor of a loved one, supporting a team, or volunteering your time, your participation makes a difference. Funds raised support the Alzheimer's Association's mission to provide 24/7 care and support, advance research, and advocate for policies that benefit those affected by Alzheimer's. Why We Walk In Illinois alone, over 266,500 people are living with Alzheimer's, and more than 314,000 caregivers provide support. By participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer's, you're joining a community dedicated to raising awareness, supporting families, and funding research to find a cure. Join Us Together, we can make a difference. Join us for the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s and take a step toward a brighter future for all those affected by this disease. For more information and to register for an Illinois Walk team, visit https://tinyurl.com/yt3wk4t9

What Is Dementia? Dementia is a general term that describes a decline in cognitive abilities—such as memory, language, and problem-solving—that interferes with daily life. It is not a single disease, but a collection of symptoms caused by disorders affecting the brain. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, responsible for 60–80% of cases. Alzheimer’s Disease Explained Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain condition that leads to memory loss, changes in thinking and behavior, and eventually loss of the ability to carry out everyday tasks. It usually begins in the area of the brain associated with memory (the hippocampus), and symptoms worsen over time. Types of Dementia In addition to Alzheimer’s, other common types include: Vascular dementia  – often caused by microscopic bleeding or blood vessel blockage in the brain. Lewy body dementia Frontotemporal dementia Mixed dementia  – a combination of multiple types, such as Alzheimer's and vascular dementia. Conditions That Mimic Dementia Some conditions can cause memory and thinking issues but are not true dementia—and may be reversible. These include: Depression Medication side effects Alcohol misuse Thyroid issues Vitamin deficiencies Symptoms and Warning Signs Early symptoms can vary, but commonly include: Memory loss affecting daily life Difficulty planning or solving problems Confusion about time or place Trouble understanding visual images or spatial relationships Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, see a doctor. Early diagnosis allows for better treatment options, participation in clinical trials, and time to plan for the future. Diagnosing Dementia There is no single test for dementia. Diagnosis involves: Reviewing medical history Physical and neurological exams Lab tests Cognitive and memory assessments Specialists such as neurologists or geriatricians may be involved when the diagnosis is unclear or complex. Causes of Dementia Dementia results from damage to brain cells, which disrupts their ability to communicate. Different types of dementia involve different types of brain damage in specific regions. For example, in Alzheimer's, the buildup of abnormal proteins interferes with cell function and leads to cell death. Support and Resources A dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900), caregiving resources, local support groups, and educational tools—including a free online course on understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Your brain is one of the most vital organs in your body — and just like the rest of you, it thrives when you care for it. The good news? Positive, everyday actions can significantly improve brain health, potentially lowering the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s, and other types of dementia. Whether you're in your twenties or your seventies, it’s never too early — or too late — to start making brain-friendly choices. Here are 10 healthy habits to incorporate into your daily routine to help protect and strengthen your brain for years to come. 1. Challenge Your Mind Be curious! Stimulate your brain by learning a new skill, taking up a hobby, solving puzzles, or trying something creative like painting or writing. Mental challenges strengthen brain connections and may provide both short- and long-term cognitive benefits. 2. Stay in School — and Keep Learning Education has been shown to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Encourage young people to pursue their studies, and keep your own mind active by attending workshops, reading, or taking courses at a local library, community center, or online. 3. Get Moving Regular physical activity increases blood flow to the brain and boosts mental sharpness. Whether it's walking, dancing, swimming, or gardening, find ways to make movement a part of your daily life. Aim for activities that elevate your heart rate and make you feel good. 4. Protect Your Head Head injuries can increase the risk of cognitive problems later in life. Always wear a helmet when biking or participating in contact sports, buckle your seatbelt, and take precautions to prevent falls — especially important for older adults. 5. Be Smoke-Free If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your brain. Research shows that people who stop smoking can reduce their risk of cognitive decline to levels similar to those who've never smoked. It's never too late to quit. 6. Control Your Blood Pressure High blood pressure is linked to cognitive decline. Maintain healthy blood pressure by staying active, eating a nutritious diet, limiting alcohol, and working with your healthcare provider to manage medications or lifestyle changes as needed. 7. Manage Diabetes Type 2 diabetes can negatively affect brain health. It can be prevented or controlled through healthier eating, regular physical activity, and medication if necessary. Keeping your blood sugar levels in check is a smart move for your body and mind. 8. Eat a Healthy Diet Nutrition plays a big role in brain health. Focus on meals rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Limit processed foods and added sugars. Consider brain-friendly diets like the Mediterranean or DASH diets for inspiration. 9. Maintain a Healthy Weight Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of chronic conditions that affect brain health. Talk to your doctor about a healthy weight range for you. By staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep, you can support both your brain and body. 10. Sleep Well Quality sleep is essential for memory, focus, and overall brain function. Aim for 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. Limit screen time before bed, make your sleep space comfortable, and address issues like sleep apnea with your doctor if needed. Understanding Brain Health Cognitive decline  refers to changes in thinking ability that can occur with age. While some decline is normal, healthy habits can slow the process. Dementia  is a broader term that describes significant memory and thinking problems that interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause, but dementia is not a normal part of aging. Take charge of your brain health today.  With these 10 habits, you can make meaningful changes that support lifelong mental clarity and well-being.

Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, caring for a loved one, or simply seeking to better understand Alzheimer’s and other dementias, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter  is here for you with free, accessible educational programs  — both in person and via Zoom . These 30–90 minute sessions  are designed to empower families, caregivers, and professionals with knowledge, support, and tools to meet the challenges of Alzheimer’s and dementia with confidence and compassion. Each program includes time for Q&A , so you can get answers tailored to your situation. 🌟 Upcoming Program Topics Include: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s: Recognize the early signs and distinguish them from normal aging. Advancing the Science: The Latest in Alzheimer's and Dementia Research: A 30-minute presentation sharing groundbreaking updates in the field. Alzheimer’s Community Forums: Join meaningful discussions and help shape local Alzheimer’s support. Dementia Conversations: Navigate tough topics like driving, doctor visits, and legal planning. Effective Communication Strategies: Learn how to better connect and communicate with someone living with dementia. Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body: Discover research-backed lifestyle tips for overall brain health. Legal and Financial Planning for Alzheimer’s Disease: Understand key documents, future planning, and available resources. Living with Alzheimer’s: Series available for both individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers — tailored for early, middle, and late stages, as well as younger-onset Alzheimer’s. Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia: A foundational overview of causes, risk factors, and the disease process. Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior: Practical strategies for managing common behavioral challenges. 📍Programs are Available: In your community  — hosted at local venues across Illinois Online via Zoom  — accessible from the comfort of your home Every program also provides insight into the free support services offered by the Alzheimer’s Association , including care consultations, support groups, and our 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900 .

On Saturday, May 3 , we had the profound honor of hosting the Third Annual African American Conference – Release the Silence: Navigating the Caregiving Journey  at the beautiful Greenwood Oasis . And what an unforgettable day it was. From the moment the doors opened, the atmosphere was filled with compassion, connection, and community . Together, we delved into the deeply personal and collective experiences of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving in the Black and African American community , and we took bold steps toward breaking the silence  that too often surrounds this journey. 💬 Conference Highlights: ✔️ Powerful speakers  who courageously shared their lived experiences as caregivers✔️ Helpful resources and practical tools  to support families navigating the challenges of dementia✔️ Authentic community conversations  that opened hearts and minds✔️ Amazing vendors and local partners  offering guidance, support, and services This gathering was more than an event — it was a movement toward understanding, empowerment, and healing . A heartfelt thank you  goes out to our incredible partners: New Life Covenant Southeast , Chi Eta Phi, Alpha Eta Chapter , Scottish Rite Prince Hall Masons , and the tireless Conference Planning Committee . Your dedication and vision are helping to build a future where no one faces Alzheimer’s alone. If you or someone you love needs support, our 24/7 Helpline is always here for you: 800.272.3900 . Together, we are stronger. Together, we are breaking the silence. Thank you, Chicago — we’ll see you next year. 💜

Shared By Joan Whitney, Co-Chair, Knox-Warren Walk to End Alzheimer’s – Galesburg, IL   In 1992, I was working at Sprint Telecommunications when our local public relations representative asked for a volunteer to represent us at Walk to End Alzheimer’s. At the time, I didn’t have a personal connection to the disease—but I believed in the cause and raised my hand. That decision would change the course of my life. Now, 34 years later, I’m still walking, still raising awareness, and still hoping for a cure. Back then, the walk focused solely on Alzheimer’s disease. Over time, the mission expanded to include all forms of dementia—something that hit home when my own twin brother, who had other health issues, was also diagnosed with vascular dementia. In the past three decades, I’ve watched this disease grow more personal. More friends, more family members, more people I care about have been impacted. That’s why I’m still here, still walking. I hold on to the hope that one day, we’ll find a cure. Because no one should ever have to say goodbye to their loved ones twice. One of the most powerful moments during every walk is when someone stands up and bravely shares their personal story. Those stories stay with me. And then there’s the Promise Garden—when we all raise our colorful flowers in honor, memory, and support. It’s such a beautiful, emotional moment that reminds us why we’re here. I’m incredibly proud to co-chair the Knox-Warren Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Galesburg, Illinois. I’ve held just about every position you can think of over the past 34 years, but co-chairing with our amazing team has been an honor. We work hard to make each event meaningful, and I’m so grateful to our volunteers and leaders who give their all every year. My walk team, Ending Alzheimer’s Starts With Me , is close to my heart—and yes, I’m the proud captain. I can’t even begin to estimate how much I’ve raised over the years. I do remember my first walk, though. It was in October of 1992, inside the local mall because it was snowing, and we raised $2,600. I personally raised $962 that year—and I remember being so proud of that number. Since then, fundraising has grown tremendously. So far this year, I’ve raised over $10,000, thanks in part to one very generous donor. But every single contribution matters to me. I’m deeply grateful for the support of my friends and family many of whom now have their own connections to this disease. People often ask me why I continue to do this year after year. My answer is simple “it’s my passion. As long as I’m able, I’ll be here. There are many heartbreaking diseases in the world, but losing a loved one twice to memory, and then to death—is a pain no one should have to experience. Until we find a cure, I’ll keep walking. And I’ll keep fighting.” Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research. Find your Walk today at www.alz.org/walk

By: Jack Rennillo I’d like to start this article off by asking the reader to humor the author with a visualization experiment. An older loved one in a family lost their spouse within the past 5 years, and as an unfortunate reality of this loved one’s life, they have had the conversation with their medical provider that they have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, specifically frontotemporal dementia (FTD), which can result in changes in behavior, personality, and memory loss. Now, a person younger than the loved one, unrelated by blood, uses not only the loss of the loved one’s spouse, but the diagnosis of FTD, as an opportunity to befriend the loved one in furtherance of their own self gain. In turn, they isolate the loved one from their family members, attempt to change beneficiary policies on the loved one’s life insurance plan, redraft wills, etc.  When the family around the loved one finally comes to the realization that this younger person has retitled assets, changed beneficiary designations, and stolen from their loved one, it is too late. Okay, visualization experiment is over. However, a few follow up questions: Did you picture the loved one as an older man? Older woman? Was the younger person a young woman? Young man? Was the nature of the relationship sexual in any manner?  What was the age difference between the younger person and the loved one? If the relationship you pictured was sexual in nature, was it heterosexual? Homosexual? Now, after you have answered these questions, I will give you my answer relative to the same.  The answer to all these questions is that it does not matter. In today’s ever-changing culture of gender norms, non-monogamous relationships, platonic friendships, etc., I believe that sometimes we can get caught up in the particulars of certain situations, seeing which group of people should take up arms against a certain other group for their exploitation or lack of empathy towards another.  In this case, the problem should be simple and clear: Older people who have either lost someone they are close to, or are in a vulnerable stage of their life, are continuously, and now more than ever, being taken advantage of for financial gain. Whether it be sexually, platonically, or by a younger man or woman. Regardless of what leading statistics say (7% of married households have an age gap of 10 or more years in favor of the man being older, compared to 1% of married households having an age gap of 10 or more years in favor of the woman being older), these aren’t the statistics that should be of importance when understanding this problem. If we, as a society, continue to look at this problem through the lens of, “well who is being hurt the most”, then there will never be a solution. In order to tackle a problem as important as protecting the elderly from financial exploitation by younger generations, we have to look at the bigger picture, and in turn, then look at the bigger solution. It is of course important to note leading causes of problems and acknowledge them. Yes, younger women are taking advantage of older, lonelier men, in a sexual manner in order to obtain financial gain. But the same can be said of all genders and relationships, and that is why when looking at the solution, we must look at it through a broader lens. This is because the solution is simple, and covers all manners of relationships, whether sexual, platonic, heterosexual, homosexual, or anything in between. So, what is the solution? The common theme of all solutions that plague our current society, is always to be proactive , instead of reactive  when problems arise. This, in turn, can mean having tough conversations with those we love prior to them being exposed to the dangers of financial exploitation by younger generations.  Having these conversations, from the frame of “we care about you, and that is why we want to protect you”, can help bring a certain piece of mind to a loved one, who once they have been exposed or taken advantage of, will rarely listen to reason, as in most cases, the perpetrator has already accomplished their job in isolating the loved one from those who truly care for them. Further, besides having a conversation with your loved one, family members can take affirmative steps to avoid such situations, such as drafting new Powers of Attorney, and obtaining control of important financial assets of their loved ones in order to protect their assets in the future, should such a situation arise.  Further, it is important to understand the digital society that we live in today. Whether it is online scammers accomplished through fake toll booth payments and phony links that hack credit card information, or websites that expose the elderly through a sexual manner, protection from those online is another prong that must be addressed when having these difficult conversations with those we love. While having proactive conversations and obtaining control or authority over a loved one’s assets in order to protect them is all well and fine, the third, and what I believe is the most important step to the solution to this problem, is also the hardest for those who surround the loved one. You have to put in the work. Now, it seems like a simple concept in theory, but one that in practice could not be more stressed. Once a loved one is aware that exploitation could become a problem for the family as a whole, and assets have been secured, you, as a family, have to continuously put in the effort to show that loved one that they are cared about. I say this, from my own personal experience with my family who I live far away from, that it is easy to be caught up in our own lives and unintentionally ignore those who we care about.  It will always be the simple things that take just a bit of effort that can accomplish this third and final step. It’s calling them on a random weekday to see how their day is. It is making the extra effort to communicate with other family members to check on the loved one’s status. There is a plethora of miniscule things that take minutes to accomplish, that in turn, make a world of difference to those we care about that are entering the later years of their life. Here is the reality of the situation. We all get old. We all eventually lose the ones we care about. We can continue to complicate the solutions to problems such as these through statistics, and multiple step plans, but it all boils down to one thing.  Empathy .  I’d like to do one more visual experiment to summarize the goal of this article. Picture yourself as someone above the age of 80, someone who has accomplished all the goals you have set out for in your life, and a family surrounding you that you could have never dreamed of when you set out to accomplish all the goals and hardships that life threw at you. Would you not want someone in your family to do all these things for you? To have the tough conversations? To protect your financial assets? To do the little things that show that they care and love you? Visual experiment is over, and I believe the answers to the above questions are all obvious. The Law firm of Peck Ritchey, LLC, affiliated for many years with the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, has recently been named the Legal Education Partner of the Association. Kerry Peck, Managing Partner of Peck Ritchey, LLC serves as Chair of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Elder Law and previously as President of the Chicago Bar Association. Mr. Peck is Co-Author of Alzheimer’s and the Law and Don’t Let Dementia Steal Everything, books which he wrote at the request of the American Bar Association. Kerry Peck served on the Association’s Board for many years and the Law Firm was honored last year by the Alzheimer’s Association. Peck Ritchey LLC is a one-stop shop for families navigating the devastating effects of a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that unfolds gradually over time, impacting memory, thinking, and behavior. While the experience can vary widely from person to person, Alzheimer’s typically progresses through three main stages: early (mild), middle (moderate), and late (severe). In the early stage , individuals may still live independently and participate in daily life, but subtle memory lapses—like misplacing objects or forgetting familiar names—begin to emerge. It's during this time that many start seeking answers, and early diagnosis can offer the best opportunity for planning ahead and exploring treatment options. As the disease advances to the middle stage , which is often the longest, symptoms become more pronounced. Individuals may struggle with language, forget personal details, and need help with routine tasks. Personality and behavior changes, such as confusion or frustration, are common, and caregivers often find this stage to be particularly challenging. It’s a time when safety becomes a priority, and additional support may be needed to maintain quality of life. In the late stage , Alzheimer’s becomes severe, with individuals requiring full-time care. Communication becomes limited, physical abilities decline, and vulnerability to infections increases. Despite these challenges, meaningful connections can still be made—through music, gentle touch, or simple presence. Caregivers play a critical role in providing comfort and dignity, often with support from hospice and community resources. Understanding the stages of Alzheimer’s not only helps families prepare for what’s ahead but also reminds us that, at every stage, there are ways to support those affected and honor their humanity. If you or someone you love is navigating this journey, know that you're not alone—there are resources, professionals, and communities ready to help. Would you like help finding support services or resources near you? The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline ( 800-272-3900 ) that is available 365 days a year. Specialists and master’s-level clinicians provide confidential support and information to individuals living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.

On Saturday, August 2, 2025 , the engines will rev, and the fight against Alzheimer’s will roll forward as The Villas of Holly Brook & Reflections Memory Care  hosts its 6th Annual Jeep Run for Alzheimer’s . This beloved community event raises funds to support the Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association , funding research, care, and advocacy efforts to combat a disease that affects 7 million Americans today —a number expected to grow to 13 million by 2050 . A Growing Impact in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s Each year, #Jeepn4ALZ  has grown in both participation and impact. In 2023, nearly 200 Jeeps and 250 participants  joined the cause, significantly boosting community involvement. The event has seen remarkable fundraising success: 2022: $8,645 raised 2023: Nearly doubled , reaching $13,573 2024: Surpassed $15,500 2025 Goal:   $20,000 With each passing year, the event has strengthened its commitment to making a difference, and this year’s goal is the biggest yet. How You Can Support the Cause Fighting Alzheimer’s takes a collective effort, and there are multiple ways for individuals and businesses to get involved: Become a Sponsor:  Donations of $300 or more  will feature businesses on event shirts and marketing materials. Contribute Auction Items:  Non-monetary donations for a pre-event auction are welcome. Join the Jeep Run:  Be part of the event and celebrate with the community. Sponsorships and donations must be received by June 27, 2025 , and can be sent to: The Villas of Holly Brook & Reflections Memory Care 738 18th Street, Charleston, IL 61920 A Personal Mission to End Alzheimer’s For Evan Myers, Executive Director of The Villas of Holly Brook, the fight against Alzheimer’s is deeply personal. His journey with the Alzheimer’s Association began nearly a decade ago with a simple act—purchasing a Walk to End Alzheimer’s T-shirt to show support. Over time, his involvement grew into organizing fundraisers and securing sponsorships through his employer. Since joining The Villas of Holly Brook in 2022, Evan has worked tirelessly to engage the community in Alzheimer’s fundraising efforts, from bake sales to raffles and handcrafted gifts. His dedication recently led to an invitation to serve as the Greater Coles County IL Executive Chair for the Alzheimer’s Association, a role he proudly accepted. “In this position, I hope to shine a light on the Alzheimer’s Association and the incredible work they do to advance research, provide support, and advocate for those affected,” he shared. Join the Movement The #Jeepn4ALZ  Jeep Run is more than an event—it’s a movement to end Alzheimer’s. Whether through sponsorship, donations, or participation, your support will make a lasting impact on individuals, caregivers, and families affected by this disease. 📞  For more information about the event, sponsorships, or donations, contact 217-512-2773 . Follow #Jeepn4ALZ  on Facebook  for event updates. Let’s drive toward a future without Alzheimer’s—one Jeep at a time . About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research, provide and enhance care and support for all affected, and reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. The Alzheimer’s Association offers a 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900) that is available 365 days a year. Specialists and master’s-level clinicians provide confidential support and information to individuals living with dementia, caregivers, families, and the public.