Senior citizens confront various challenges, including social isolation, access to healthcare, and financial insecurity. Among these, health concerns, in particular Alzheimer’s disease, stands out as one of the most significant concerns. As one of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States, Alzheimer’s not only affects individuals but also places immense strain on families and caregivers. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated 5.8 million Americans aged 65 years or older suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. This number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million people by 2060. While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, treatment includes promoting brain health maintenance and activities that slow down or postponing the progression of the disease.
In response to this growing challenge, the Fulton County Library and the Atlanta-Fulton Public Library Foundation are working to ensure that seniors in Fulton County have access to resources and support by launching the “Stay Sharp: Kits for Seniors.” Stay Sharp kits are designed to improve memory and cognition, while building social skills. They encourage creative thinking and have a positive effect on cognition by stimulating the mind and memory. Kit activities also reinforce the connection between brain cells and improve mental speed and short term memory.
As a part of the initial pilot, the kits will be available for in-branch use at 10 branches by the Library’s social services team, either independently or as part of group sessions, and by patrons and their caregivers. And as demand grows, the program will expand to additional branches and caregivers will even have the option to check out the kits for use at home. Kits can also be easily transported to Senior Living facilities and Senior Centers for on-site programming.
The Stay Sharp program will kick off at Alpharetta Library, Cascade Library, Metropolitan Library, Milton Library, Northwest at Scotts Cross Library, Northeast/Spruill Oaks Library, Ocee Library, South Fulton Library and Wolf Creek Library.
Individual launch dates will include other Senior activities including Senior Yoga, Senior Book Club sign up, and other senior social services through partnerships with the Alzheimer’s Association, Fulton County Senior Services and Veteran’s Affairs. Check with your local library for availability.
