This is an image from a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention video about Alzheimer's. 

We’ve entered a new era of Alzheimer’s and dementia treatment, risk reduction and prevention. Our community has been engaged in Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Central Oregon for fifteen years. In 2023, we raised more than $67,000 to fuel our local educational programs and support group access in Deschutes County.

The early 2000’s marked progress in dementia science that included the launch of the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative and the development and publication of a national public health road map to maintaining cognitive health in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A decade later, I’m proud to share that we have entered an exciting new era of treatment in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Recent breakthroughs, including FDA-approved treatments that address the root causes of Alzheimer’s, a 90% accurate diagnostic blood test, inclusion of coverage for PET imaging for Alzheimer’s’ disease by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, and new guidelines for clinical practice, are some of the most significant advancements we’ve ever seen in Alzheimer’s and dementia science.

At the same time, the Alzheimer’s Association in Oregon & SW Washington is leading the country as we pilot a grant funded outreach and resource expansion project over the next two years in seven rural Oregon counties. We want to ensure that all Oregonians, including those who live in sparsely populated areas, with limited access to healthcare services, are prioritized and able to benefit from the outcomes of our work.

Now is the time to address barriers to care — including transportation, financial challenges, and health stigma — that are all too real for our family, friends, neighbors, colleagues and fellow community members. Places like Redmond, Madras, Prineville, and Sisters, deserve leadership in the development of resources and specialized dementia care.

Our Bend office of the Alzheimer’s Association is committed to addressing these disparities. We’re proud to announce that Walk to End Alzheimer’s Central Oregon will be held on October 13 at the incredibly lovely Riverbend Park. This event is more than just a fundraiser; it’s a chance for the community to rally together, to honor our loved ones, to raise awareness, and to provide the critical funds for care, support and research that our community deserves. By participating, we’re investing in the future of brain health right here at home.

I urge everyone to take charge of your brain health. This means taking individual steps to learn about dementia, recognize the importance of lifestyle changes in disease prevention, and do what you can to support those around you. Our 24/7 helpline is available, day or night, at 800-272-3900 for anyone who needs immediate support. This number is also not restricted only to crisis: our team would be happy to help you learn more about brain health, find resources, or address any other concerns, questions, or interests you have. Learn more about us online at alz.org.

I hope to see you at this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s in October.