Alzheimer's is the 7th leading cause of death for people of all ages and 5th leading cause of death for people age 65 and older. One of the most important ways of dealing with the disease is early detection and treatment.  Starting in January, the Alzheimer's Association Greater Iowa Chapter will be hosting Beginning the Conversation programs in Clinton, Muscatine and Scott Counties in Iowa and Henry, Rock Island and Mercer Counties in Illinois.

The Beginning the Conversation program is designed to address the challenges confronting families of those newly diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Crucial information is presented, from disease progression to programs and services that can support caregiving and maintain quality of life. (Please note, this is for caregivers only; respite funds may be available for those suffering from the disease).

Programs for Scott and Rock Island County will be held the 4th Tuesday of the month from 3-4:30 pm at the Alzheimer's Association office, 736 Federal Street, Ste. 2318, Davenport, IA.

Programs for Clinton County will be held 1st Tuesday of the month in April, July and October from 3-4:30 pm at the Mercy Medical Center, South Campus Boardroom, 638 S. Bluff, Clinton, IA.

Programs for Muscatine County will be held the 2nd Tuesday of the month in March, June, September and December from 3-4:30 pm at Senior Resources, 3rd Floor Meeting Room, 1808 Mulberry Avenue, Muscatine, IA.

Programs for Henry County will be held the 3rd Thursday of the month in February, May, August and November from 3-4:30 pm at Henry Seniors Upstairs Meeting Room, 219 W. 2nd Street, Kewanee, IL

Programs for Mercer County will be held the 4th Thursday of the month in January, April, July and October from 3-4:30 pm at the Mercer County Hospital, Conference Room A, 409 NW 9th Avenue, Aledo, IL.

Persons interested in signing up for the class may call 563-324-1022 or 800-272-3900 or email Jerry Schroeder at Jerry.Schroeder@alz.org.

The Alzheimer's Association, the world leader in Alzheimer research and support, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. For 25 years, the donor-supported, not-for-profit Alzheimer's Association has provided reliable information and care consultation; created supportive services for families; increased funding for dementia research; and influenced public policy changes.

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