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Transylvania Community Hospital to Host Alzheimer’s Support Meeting
BREVARD, N.C., Aug. 13, 2007—Transylvania Community Hospital will host an Alzheimer’s Disease Support Group meeting on Aug. 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the KOALA Adult Day Care/ Day Health Center on the hospital campus in Brevard. The meeting is sponsored by Transylvania Community Hospital, KOALA (Keeping Older Adults Living Abundantly) and the Western Carolina chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.
The free meeting is designed to bring together and provide support to loved ones and caregivers of those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. This degenerative disease, which destroys the brain, affects more than 5 million people nationwide and is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. It is the fifth leading cause of death for those over 65.
The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s is increasing age, and with 78 million baby boomers beginning to turn 60, it is estimated that someone in America develops Alzheimer’s every 72 seconds. By mid-century, it is estimated that someone will develop Alzheimer’s every 11 seconds. The incurable disease places a huge burden on its sufferers, their families and the nation’s healthcare system.
“Alzheimer’s is one of those diseases that can affect people as early as in their 40s, but is typically associated with old age,” said Robert Anderson, director of Transylvania Community Hospital’s KOALA Center. “The disease can affect people of all backgrounds, especially those who have previously led highly productive lives. Of course the individual suffers, but after the initial onset of the disease, the people who really suffer are the loved ones and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s.”
During the meeting, Anderson will give a presentation on the many programs offered by KOALA. Pat Osteen, KOALA’s health care coordinator, will also talk about the benefits of adult day services. Light food and refreshments will be provided. For more information on this presentation and support group, call 884-2980. Those interested in attending the meeting should R.S.V.P. by Aug. 20.
Transylvania Community Hospital officially took over operations of the KOALA Adult Day Care/ Day Health Center on July 1, in conjunction with the retirement of its founding director, Barbara Voorhes, who served more than 15 years with KOALA.
About Transylvania Community Hospital
Transylvania Community Hospital is a nationally ranked 5-Star Hospital and a leading provider of quality healthcare services in Transylvania and surrounding counties. Based in Brevard, N.C., it is a not-for-profit community hospital founded in 1933 and is the largest employer in Transylvania County.