Musings: Alzheimer's is my new reality
Alzheimer's impacts hundreds of thousands of people in their 50s and 60s. Credit: Getty Images / Science Photo Library
June is Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month, a reminder that brain health should be a priority for every family. Established by the Alzheimer's Association in 2014, the month is dedicated to encouraging a worldwide conversation about the disease and promoting early detection.
Bill Ritter, 76, spoke about his Alzheimer's diagnosis before stepping down as a WABC-TV anchor this month, and he is not alone in this journey.
This is extremely relevant to me because I am also living with Alzheimer's. I now struggle with activities that used to come easily, such as tying my own tie, managing finances, and using my phone or computer, and I worry about becoming a burden to my wife.
Alzheimer's attacks the very essence of who you are, changing all you strived to become. I've learned this is not just an "old person's disease," as many people think. It also impacts hundreds of thousands of people in their 50s and 60s.
The Alzheimer's Association emphasizes it's never too early — or too late — to take steps to protect brain health. Stay physically active, eat well and challenge your mind.
Managing blood pressure and diabetes may also help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. While most Americans say brain health matters, few know what actions to take.
Besides adopting healthier habits, talk with a doctor or get involved with the Alzheimer's Association Long Island Chapter, which is located in Melville.
The Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center, with headquarters in Westbury, and the Alzheimer's Disease Resource Center, based in East Islip, provide respite and support services, too.
— John Chandler, Southold
WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO JOIN OUR DAILY CONVERSATION. Just go to newsday.com/submitaletter and follow the prompts. Or email your opinion to letters@newsday.com. Submissions should be no more than 200 words. Please provide your full name, hometown, phone number and any relevant expertise or affiliation. Include the headline and date of the article you are responding to. Letters become the property of Newsday and are edited for all media. Due to volume, readers are limited to one letter in print every 45 days. Published letters reflect the ratio received on each topic.
