ATRC Area Agency on Aging to host free Brain Health Fair on June 26

The Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging is hosting a Free Community Brain Health Fair on June 26 in Selma.

The health fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.at the Edmundite Community Center, 1428 Broad Street in Selma.

The event is part of the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer's Public Health Program, a nationwide initiative focused on promoting brain health, reducing risk factors associated with dementia, and improving support for individuals and families affected by cognitive decline.

Attendees will have the opportunity to receive free memory, cognitive, and sleep assessments conducted by specialists from the University of Alabama. Participants will also receive educational materials, connect with community organizations, and enjoy free giveaways throughout the event.

"Brain health is an important part of healthy aging, and early awareness can make a significant difference for individuals and families," said Jennifer Dailey of the Alabama Tombigbee Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging. "This event brings together trusted organizations that can help people better understand brain health, access services, and learn practical steps to maintain cognitive wellness throughout life."

Representatives from many organizations will be available to provide information, resources, and referrals related to brain health, healthy aging, nutrition, caregiving, legal services, and community support. 

Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia continue to affect families across Alabama. More than 104,000 Alabamians age 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimer's disease, and approximately 219,000 family caregivers provide support to loved ones with dementia across the state. Alabama caregivers contribute an estimated 391 million hours of unpaid care annually, highlighting the significant impact dementia has on families and communities.

The need for brain health education is especially important in communities with aging populations. In Dallas County, approximately 22% of residents are age 65 or older, compared to about 18.6% statewide, meaning the county has a larger proportion of older adults than Alabama as a whole. With nearly one in five Alabamians over age 45 reporting concerns about cognitive decline, increasing awareness and access to screening resources remains a public health priority.