Bridge lighting watch party to raise awareness on World Alzheimer's Day
News 12's Lisa LaRocca is reporting live all morning from Horan's Landing, where the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association hosts their annual Bridge Lighting Watch Party.
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Dealing with Alzheimer's disease and dementia requires knowledge and support, and there are upcoming events in the area aimed at providing just that - starting tonight.
Every year for World Alzheimer's Day on Sept. 21, the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association hosts a party at Horan's Landing in Sleepy Hollow to watch the bridge illuminate in purple. This event also marks the commencement of five different Walk to End Alzheimer's events in the region.
MORE: Guide: Signs of Alzheimer's disease and resources for patients and families
A recent study on Alzheimer's prevalence by state and county reveals alarming data. New York state ranks second highest in the nation for people living with Alzheimer's. Westchester County is ranked fifth in the state, trailing behind the New York City boroughs.
"Whatever the Alzheimer's Association can do to provide resources and give families a place to go and somebody to speak to is so important," says Adam Kintish, of Hudson Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
However, there is positive news on the horizon. A new drug called Lecanemab has shown promising results in slowing the progression of the disease.
"It actually slows the progression of the disease, and this is the first time that we've ever had these treatments that slow the progression of the disease, it can potentially give you back six to eight months of cognitive function," says David Sobel, of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association.
The party will be held 6-8 p.m. with food trucks, a DJ and information tables.
Lisa talks to staff and volunteers who help raise money and awareness.
