East Central Iowa Alzheimer's Association chapter plans town hall meeting Aug. 7

In 2050, care for those with Alzheimer's disease will cost the country more than $1 trillion, creating an enormous strain on the health care system, families, and federal and state budgets. Recognizing this growing crisis, the nation's first ever National Alzheimer's Plan was unveiled in May and now this plan must be swiftly and effectively implemented.

On Tuesday August 7th the Alzheimer's Association East Central Iowa Chapter will hold a town hall to discuss the nation's first National Alzheimer's Plan and its implementation. The plan touches on a broad array of Alzheimer's issues from caregiver support to expanding research to healthcare provider education and efforts to raise public awareness to diminish the stigma associated with Alzheimer's. The town hall will be held in the Hallagan Room at Mercy Medical Center in Cedar Rapids beginning at 4:00pm.

Town hall attendees will ask Congress to support this implementation with an additional $100 million for Alzheimer's research, education, outreach and community support. Eastern Iowa residents, including those living with Alzheimer's, their caregivers, representatives from federal, state and local government as well as the research, health and long-term care communities are invited to come and share their thoughts. The town hall will begin with a legislative meet and greet followed by a formal town hall session where Eastern Iowans will be given the opportunity to ask questions, share experiences, and get responses from a panel of local leaders including: Dr. Susan Schultz, MD, Professor of Psychiatry, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; William Thies Ph. D., Chief Medical and Scientific Officer, National Alzheimer's Association; Kathy Collison-Good, LISW, caregiver; Kelly Hauer, Executive Director, Alzheimer's Association East Central Iowa Chapter; and Iowa State Senator Liz Mathis.

To RSVP or learn more about the National Alzheimer's Plan town hall taking place in Cedar Rapids visit alz.org/plan or call 1-800-272-3900.

About the Alzheimer's Association:

The Alzheimer's Association is the world's leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's research, care and support. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.