Watercrest at Kingwood to Host Walk for Alzheimer's Awareness - Kingwood

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, nearly 5.5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer's, and approximately 380,000 of those individuals live in Texas. Currently, Texas ranks fourth in the U.S. when it comes to the number of Alzheimer's cases and second in the number of Alzheimer's-related deaths. With these sobering statistics in mind, raising awareness and funds to support research aimed at developing methods of treatment and finding a cure is more important than ever. Watercrest at Kingwood (a premier retirement community) is dedicated to doing its part to help the greater Kingwood community learn more and support the efforts of the Alzheimer's Association. As a result, the community will host an Alzheimer's walk for residents, family members, employees and members of the public on Friday, September 28 at 10 am at Watercrest at Kingwood, 24109 Kingwood Place Drive.

During the event, participants will walk around the first-floor of the community in honor of those impacted by the disease. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to make financial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association by participating in a silent auction. To finish the day, Watercrest will host a happy hour celebration where they will announce the total raised for the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. For family members of residents such as Kelley Bibb, the occasion and its significance reminds them of Watercrest's dedication to serve her family and others. Bibb's mother has Alzheimer's, and while it has progressed over time, she remains independent with the help of her husband, and most recently other personal caregivers. Bibb's parents were some of the first residents who moved into the community, seeking closeness to their family while continuing their independence.

"The relationships with others in the community my parents have made since moving into Watercrest have been invaluable, especially as my mom lives with Alzheimer's," said Bibb. "There is a camaraderie within the community, and a sensitivity from the staff and residents on this and many other health related issues. Watercrest offers great social opportunities and works hard to provide educational and informational services for aging adults. Most importantly the community feels like a family. By having events like the walk, it reminds us of the importance of being educated about this disease and how we can best care for those impacted. For those of us who live this life, it's wonderful to know the support is there and that we can come together to educate the greater community."

"We look forward to the opportunity to walk together as a community in support of those who face the various challenges of this disease," said Debra Burton, executive director of Watercrest at Kingwood. "Our community understands firsthand the importance of awareness-based events such as this, and we are dedicated to supporting those with the disease and their loved ones. It's an honor to walk together and support this important cause. We invite everyone in Kingwood and the surrounding area to come out and walk with us. We hope to inspire others to learn more about Alzheimer's and what they can do to fight this disease."

In addition to educating attendees on the importance of Alzheimer's awareness, the walk will also serve as a kick-off event for Watercrest's participation in the Woodlands Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association's Walk to End Alzheimer's on October 6. All proceeds raised during the senior living community's walk will go towards team donations to support the Alzheimer's Association.