June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Over six million people in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia. It destroys people’s memory, thinking skills, and ability to complete everyday tasks. Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia take a toll not only on the patient, but also on caregivers and family members. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and the numbers continue to rise. If you or a loved one are concerned about your memory or brain health, or if you are caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s or dementia, check out one of our books or take a look at the information and materials below. Please note that these resources are for information purposes only and are not a substitute for medical care. Contact your health care provider if you or someone you know is exhibiting the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, some medications may help to reduce the symptoms.
The library is now open for visitors to browse! Come in and take a look at our display in the Reference Room on the second floor. If you are not comfortable entering the building, you can request items for curbside pickup during our regular hours (Monday-Thursday 9-9; Friday and Saturday 9-5). To reserve a book, place a request in the online catalog, fill out a request form, or call the reference desk at 978-674-4121.
10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
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- Memory loss that disrupts daily like
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
Information from the National Institute on Aging
Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet
Alzheimer’s Disease Medication Fact Sheet (this does not include the recently approved Aducanumab)
Cognitive Health (the ability to clearly think, learn, and remember)
Caring for a Person with Alzheimer’s Disease: Your Easy-to-Use Guide (en Español)
Information from the Centers for Disease Control
Information in Other Languages
Chinese, French, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Somali, Spanish, Ukranian
Organizations, Agencies, and Referrals
800-272-3900 24/7 helpline
Alzheimer’s Association Community Resource Finder
Mass.gov Executive Office of Elder Affairs
Mass.gov Health and Social Services for Seniors Page
Elder Services of the Merrimack Valley
Alzheimer’s Statistics