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NEWS RELEASE

ALZHEIMER SOCIETY OF SAULT STE. MARIE & ALGOMA DISTRICT

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Alzheimer Society says 'put on the coffee' Coffee Break® helps brew funds for Alzheimer support

This September, show your support for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia by taking part in a Coffee Break event in your community.

Coffee Break is the largest annual fundraising campaign of the Alzheimer Society that raises funds that remain local for hands-on programs and services.

Anyone can take part in this do-it-yourself fundraiser by making a donation in exchange for a cup of coffee.

It can be as simple as hosting a coffee party at home, in the office or a public venue, or as elaborate as organizing a coffee-thon using social media or hosting a luncheon.

“Increased funding for services is essential to meet the needs of the growing numbers of Canadians with dementia,” says Carolyn Cybulski, executive director of the Alzheimer Society of Sault Ste. Marie and Algoma District. “Having access to services like counselling, education, and recreation therapy can make all the difference in the way families live with this devastating disease.”

Dementia’s steadily increasing numbers will have a tremendous impact on caregivers who already spend many hours per year caring for someone with dementia.

Family caregivers also experience higher levels of stress and other health-related conditions.

“Support groups for caregivers will be in even greater demand,” adds Carolyn. “They’re a safe place for caregivers to talk, share and form friendships, giving them the confidence and strength to continue caring for family members at home for longer. But to keep these groups active, we need more funding. We’re encouraging the community to get behind our Coffee Break event and make a difference”.

Coffee Break kicks off September 20, but participants can host at any time that is convenient to them.

They can also purchase coffee cup cut-outs from participating locations.

Bulk Barn and its head office will match any cut-outs purchased on September 21.

To register and start planning your Coffee Break event call the local office at 705-942-2195 and a kit will be delivered to you with promotional materials and information.

About Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the leading form of dementia. It is a fatal brain disease that progressively impacts memory, speech and behaviour.

Eventually those affected will become dependent on others for every aspect of their care.

The disease can start to develop 10 to 20 years before symptoms appear.

Age is still a major risk factor, but the disease can also strike people in their 50s and 40s.

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