BELLE GLADE — The Alzheimer’s Association Brain Bus will be in Belle Glade on Monday, Oct. 9 and Tuesday, Oct. 10 to provide free support services to families facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia. The bus will be at St. Johns First Missionary Baptist Church on Monday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to noon. No appointment is needed.

An additional no-cost program will be offered on Tuesday, Oct. 10 at from 9 - 9:30 a.m. focusing on local Alzheimer’s Association resources.

Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. One in eight Florida seniors is estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s.

Trained staff will be available at the Brain Bus to help families understand steps to get an accurate diagnosis, warning signs, caregiving tips and connect to local resources.

“Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging,” said Heike Accorsi, Brain Bus program manager. “It’s vital that all Floridians know the warning signs of the disease so they can get an accurate diagnosis and access to treatment options as soon as possible. We are here to serve the community and hope those who need help stop by.”

Unique to Florida, the Brain Bus program is managed by the Alzheimer’s Association Florida chapters and funded in partnership with the Department of Elder Affairs and Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas. Two mobile vehicles travel the state providing dementia education and resources to at-risk and heavily impacted communities.

The Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter works in eight counties to provide education and support, advocate for the needs and rights of those facing Alzheimer’s and other dementia, and advance critical research to develop new treatments, prevention and, ultimately, a cure. For more information, including upcoming programs and support groups, call 800-272-3900 or visit alz.org/SEFL.