Every 65 seconds in the United States, someone develops Alzheimer’s disease. More than 5 million Americans are currently living with the disease, and as the Boomer population ages, this number is expected to increase rapidly. One in three seniors die due to Alzheimer’s complications or another form of dementia, making it the sixth-leading cause of death in the US today. Alzheimer’s disease is one of the biggest health issues facing our population, and as of yet, there is no cure. Yet every year, we get closer and closer to understanding this disease and what we can do to better the lives of those affected.
“At Bridges by EPOCH at Norwalk, caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia has been our mission ever since we opened our doors,” says Addie Ricci, Executive Director at Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk, located in Norwalk, CT. “We look forward to the day when we can definitively say that a cure has been found for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Until that day, we will continue our mission of compassionate care and raising awareness for these diseases.”
One of the ways our community does this is by participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®, a yearly event held worldwide to raise money for Alzheimer’s research.
“Every year, participation in the Walk grows and the wider community shows up to support us,” says Addie. In addition to the walk, Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk holds several events to raise money to donate to the Alzheimer’s Association®.
About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the world’s biggest event held to raise funds and awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, along with support for care and research. More than 600 communities nationwide hold this annual event and call on participants of all abilities and ages to change the future one step at a time.
The Walk started in 1989 under the name Memory Walk®. Nine Alzheimer’s Association® chapters and 1,249 participants raised $149,000 to advance Alzheimer’s research. In 1993, the Walk became a nationwide event, raising $4.5 million through participation at 167 locations. The event grew and grew, until in 2018, more than 65,000 teams raised more than $90 million, with more than 600 Walks taking place across the country.
The Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is a true community event that joins family members, friends, co-workers and those with Alzheimer’s disease. Participants generally register in teams of 10 to 12 and join efforts to raise funds. The Walks themselves are approximately two to three miles long, Before the Walk takes place, participants can learn more about the disease, clinical trial enrollment, support programs and services and advocacy opportunities.
“The Walk is an event not just for those with dementia, but also for family members and anyone else who has been affected by the disease,” says Addie. “It’s also for those in our community who support our mission and wish to join hands and move forward to a day when a cure can be found.”
The Promise Garden: Growing Our Commitment
One of the most meaningful and symbolic aspects of the Walk to End Alzheimer’s® is the Promise Garden. This is an inclusive experience that calls for everyone to join together and commit to the purpose of honoring, remember, caring and fighting for those affected by Alzheimer’s.
On the day of the Walk, walkers choose a promise flower and write a dedication on an attached tag. Participants choose from one of four colors:
- Blue, which represents someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
- Purple, for someone who has lost a loved one to the disease.
- Yellow, signifying someone who is currently supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s.
- Orange, for anyone and everyone who supports the cause and wishes for a world without Alzheimer’s.
Before the Walk begins, a Promise Garden ceremony is held. Walkers are asked to hold their flowers in the air at a specific part of the ceremony to represent the people we walk for. Once the Walk begins, walkers can give their flower to volunteers who will “plant” them in the symbolic garden. At the end of the walk, participants are encouraged to peruse the garden and take home their own flower as a memory of this special event.
“Thanks to the funds raised through Walk to End Alzheimer’s and support from our community members, families and friends, we’re able to advance the research efforts and advocacy of the Alzheimer’s Association,” says Addie. “We are proud to support this amazing cause, and to help provide information and education to those across the country who live and deal with dementia every day. Together, with your help, we will pave a way to end this disease once and for all.”
Compassionate Care for All Stages of Memory Loss
Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides assisted living memory care that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia or memory impairment, we’ve created a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity and individual preferences. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment – making a truly positive impact on the lives of our residents each and every day.
Personalized Services
Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk’s services are designed to recognize and adapt to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident, while ensuring comfort and safety. We believe in a full-service approach to care and provide a high level of personalized attention for every stage of memory loss. At Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk, our residents have it all for one simple monthly fee.
Community Amenities
Within a beautiful residential design, Bridges® by EPOCH at Norwalk provides everything residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias need to enjoy comfort, familiarity and security. Soft colors, directional cues, aromatherapy and interactive life stations create a peaceful and secure environment where residents feel at home.
Contact us today to learn more.