The Alzheimer’s Association Oregon and SW Washington Chapter will hold a free class, “Know the 10 Signs: Early Detection Matters,” from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 19, at the Harney County Senior and Community Services Center, 17 S. Alder Ave. in Burns.

The warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease are often dismissed as side effects of normal aging. If someone is experiencing memory loss or behavioral changes, it’s time to learn the facts. Early detection provides a chance to begin drug therapy, enroll in clinical studies and plan for the future.

In this class, attendees will gain an understanding of the difference between age-related memory loss and Alzheimer’s and what to do if they or someone they know has signs of the disease. Video footage of real people who are living with the early stages of dementia and their families will be shown, addressing fears and myths associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

The workshop will cover the following topics:

• The 10 warning signs; overview of Alzheimer’s disease; risk factors; and what is involved in getting a diagnosis.

• Benefits of early detection, including accessing available treatment, planning for the future and participating in clinical trials.

More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease among the top 10 causes that cannot be cured, prevented or even slowed. Additionally, more than 16 million family and friends provide care to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in the U.S.

“There are over 65,000 Oregonians age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease,” says Kaitlyn Bertholet, Central Oregon regional coordinator. “According to the 2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures special report, early diagnosis saves costs of medical and long-term care for both families and the U.S. government. Join us for this free educational program and learn more about the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s.”

The Alzheimer’s Association provides a number of free programs and support services to Oregon and southwest Washington. Free educational programs are open to anyone interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease, including family and professional caregivers, people with memory loss, and the general public. Class topics include information about Alzheimer’s disease, legal and financial concerns, and communication and behavior. In-person and telephone support groups are also available for caregivers and people living with Alzheimer’s disease.

“Know the 10 Signs” is free, but registration is required. To register, call 800-272-3900. For a list of upcoming classes, support groups and other resources, visit www.alz.org/orswwa.