Understanding Alzheimer’s: Awareness, Treatment and Hope
Formed in 1980, the Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in the world for Alzheimer’s care, support and research, according to Beth Sulkowski, vice president of communications for the nonprofit’s South Carolina Chapter.
The Scope of Alzheimer’s in South Carolina
Age is the single greatest risk factor for those who are 65 or older, Sulkowski said. According to the Association’s 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report, of the 7 million seniors in the United States who suffer from Alzheimer’s, approximately 112,500 in South Carolina are living with the condition. While less common, younger-onset Alzheimer’s affects people who have not yet reached the age of 65.
Early Warning Signs
Warning signs to look for in the beginning stages are changes severe enough to impact daily life. These can include:
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Forgetting recently learned information.
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Difficulty concentrating or completing familiar tasks.
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Confusion about time and place.
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Misjudging distance or spatial relations.
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Trouble speaking or writing.
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Losing things in unusual places.
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Poor judgment or decision-making.
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Withdrawal from socializing.
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Changes in mood or personality, such as uncharacteristic irritability.
To learn more about these red flags, visit alz.org/10signs.
Risk Reduction and Lifestyle Factors
Sulkowski explained that although there is not yet a cure for Alzheimer’s, making healthier lifestyle choices might reduce the risk. These include:
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Regular physical activity.
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Managing blood pressure.
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Eating more fruits and vegetables and less processed food.
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Getting sufficient sleep.
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Staying socially and mentally active.
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Continuing to learn and engage in new hobbies.
Advances in Treatment
Researchers are making progress, however. Two U.S. Food and Drug Administration–approved infusions, Kisunla and Leqembi, address the underlying biology by removing the accumulation of protein in the brain to slow cognitive decline and progression.
The catch, Sulkowski noted, is that these treatments are available only if the diagnosis is caught early enough: “Most patients wait to have a conversation with their doctor because they dread hearing the diagnosis. But early detection is key so that patients and their caregivers are aware of all treatment options and support plans.”
Other medications may help lessen symptoms such as memory loss and confusion and promote cognitive clarity. Among the most common are Aricept and Namenda.
Support and Resources for Caregivers
The Alzheimer’s Association offers a wealth of resources and support for caregivers, including in-person and virtual (Zoom) support groups. Visit alz.org/sc to view the full calendar.
Additionally, the Association’s free 24-hour hotline (800-272-3900) is open 365 days a year. Trained, master’s-level social workers are on standby around the clock to answer concerns, share resources, assist with care plans and provide emotional support.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s
These critical programs would not be possible without the 600 communities across the country that participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
In Charleston, the two-mile walk will be held on Oct. 26, beginning at Joseph P. Riley Jr. Park at 2 p.m. Anyone who donates or fundraises $100 or more receives an official T-shirt.
To register for free or learn more about fundraising tools, visit alz.org/walk. Those unable to attend can still make general donations through the website.
Hope for the Future
The good news, Sulkowski said, is that “We have more hope now than ever before. Plus, it’s easy to get involved and advocate for accelerating global research in the fight against Alzheimer’s.”
To learn more about the South Carolina chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, visit alz.org/sc.
By Sarah Rose
