Alzheimer’s awareness grows in Imperial County as more families seek support
Adrik Vargas
IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) – As Alzheimer’s cases rise, care providers are raising awareness about early intervention, community support, and the growing need for local resources.
Nearly 15% of seniors in the region are living with Alzheimer’s. Staff at DayOut, an adult day center in El Centro, say they’re seeing changes including a noticeable increase in younger people being diagnosed.
“We’re seeing more and more people, younger people, getting Alzheimer’s and Dementia…and the younger they are, the faster they deteriorate,” said Maribelle Mendez, the center’s director.
She says simple activities like physical therapy and social connection can make a difference.
“After you get to know people, start making friends at your table, there’s a reason to get up in the morning,” she said. “And if you provide someone with a reason why to get up in the morning it gives them back life.”
Physical therapist Douglas Wisdom added, “The goal is to maximize how mobile they are…keep the quality of life as high as we can by keeping them active.”
The Alzheimer’s Association will host a town hall at 2 p.m. on June 26 at DayOut in El Centro, where families can ask questions, learn about care options, and get connected to resources.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s and how you can take charge of your own health, visit here.