In conjunction with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,I,C- Batavia) would like to encourage all seniors in the City of Batavia and the surrounding region to attend the memory screening which AFA has scheduled tomorrow, November 17, at the Kmart Pharmacy in Batavia. “By marking November 17, 2009 as National Memory Screening Day, we bring awareness to the importance of memory loss with our elderly population. Memory loss is one of the first signs of the onset of Alzheimer’s and it is imperative we do everything in our power to protect seniors from this devastating disorder,” said Hawley. At the screening, qualified healthcare professionals will offer confidential memory screenings and information about Alzheimer’s disease, along with information regarding local resources for healthy aging. Approximately 4.5 million Americans currently suffer from Alzheimer’s disease or related illness and it is estimated that the number will triple to more than 16 million by mid-century. The greatest risk factor for memory loss and Alzheimer’s is age, with this risk doubling every five years after the age of 65. As part of this year’s awareness campaign, AFA also hosted commemorative candle lighting ceremonies nationwide on November 15. For more information about any other memory loss questions, please visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org or call 866-AFA-8484.