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Wyomissing Public Library hosts Alzheimer's awareness session on brain health tips

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, November 1st 2025 at 22:46 GMT by WFMZ-TV
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Wyomissing Public Library Raises Alzheimer’s Awareness with Practical Brain‑Health Workshop

On April 15, the Wyomissing Public Library (WPL) opened its doors for a community‑focused event that brought together library staff, local health professionals, and residents in a conversation about Alzheimer’s disease and broader brain‑health strategies. The “Alzheimer’s Awareness Session on Brain‑Health Tips” was organized to educate attendees on early signs of cognitive decline, lifestyle factors that can protect brain function, and ways to support loved ones who may be experiencing memory challenges.

A Local Collaboration

The workshop was a collaboration between WPL and the Alzheimer’s Association of Pennsylvania. According to the library’s event page—linked in the original WFMZ article—the event featured a presentation by Dr. Laura M. Sanchez, a neurologist from the nearby Penn State Health system, and a representative from the local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, Mr. Richard Lee. Dr. Sanchez drew on her clinical experience with patients who had early‑stage Alzheimer’s, emphasizing the importance of early detection and lifestyle interventions. Lee discussed community resources, including support groups, caregiver training, and the library’s own program for seniors that offers low‑vision and hearing‑impaired services.

The event, held in the library’s main reading room, attracted roughly 75 participants, ranging from seniors to young adults curious about maintaining cognitive vitality. A brief reception before the talk featured an interactive station where attendees could try brain‑training apps, taste healthy snack options, and hand out informational pamphlets from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Key Takeaways from the Talk

1. Early Warning Signs
   Dr. Sanchez explained that subtle changes—such as frequent misplacing of items, difficulty following complex conversations, or changes in mood—can signal early cognitive decline. She urged viewers to keep a personal “memory journal” to track such changes and to schedule a professional evaluation if concerns arise.

2. Lifestyle Modifications
   The presentation highlighted the role of diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management. A Mediterranean‑style diet, rich in omega‑3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables, is linked to lower rates of dementia. Regular aerobic exercise—at least 150 minutes per week—helps maintain brain vascular health. Adequate sleep (7‑9 hours) and stress‑reduction techniques like mindfulness were also underscored as protective.

3. Mental and Social Engagement
   Activities that challenge the brain—reading, puzzles, learning a new skill—promote neuroplasticity. Social interaction was cited as equally important; “social isolation” is a known risk factor for cognitive decline. Dr. Sanchez encouraged participants to join book clubs, community classes, or volunteer opportunities.

4. Support for Caregivers
   Mr. Lee spoke to the emotional and practical needs of caregivers. He described the library’s “Caregiver Support Group” that meets monthly in the community room, offering respite, informational sessions, and peer support. The group also provides free books and audiobooks for people with dementia and their caregivers.

5. Resources and Screening
   The Alzheimer’s Association’s website—linked in the original article—offers a free screening questionnaire that people can complete online. The library’s event page (https://wyomissingpubliclibrary.org/event/alzheimers-awareness-session) lists upcoming related workshops, including a “Brain‑Health Breakfast” and a “Digital Literacy for Seniors” series.

Community Response

Attendees praised the library’s initiative. Maria Gonzales, a local teacher who attended with her father, said, “I never realized how many small habits we can change to protect memory. The information on diet and exercise was eye‑opening.” A resident, 82‑year‑old Robert Kim, expressed gratitude for the library’s caregiver support: “It’s comforting to know there’s a place where we can talk openly about the challenges we face.”

Library director Angela Hart noted, “Our mission has always been to enrich the lives of Wyomissing residents, and this event exemplifies that. We’re excited to keep offering health‑related programming that supports both the brain and the community.”

Follow‑Up Actions

• Library Resources – WPL will circulate a handout summarizing the key brain‑health tips from Dr. Sanchez’s talk. The handout will be available in the library’s resource center and online at the library’s website.
• Future Events – The Alzheimer’s Association and the library are planning a follow‑up session in July to discuss advances in Alzheimer’s research, including potential disease‑modifying therapies.
• Caregiver Support – Caregiver groups will continue monthly, with an added “Digital Tools for Caregivers” workshop next month to help families manage health records and medication schedules.

In the Broader Context

The Wyomissing event is part of a nationwide push to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2024‑25 facts, nearly 6.5 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease, and the average age of diagnosis is 65. Community‑based education, such as WPL’s session, plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention.

By combining clinical expertise with library resources, the Wyomissing Public Library has demonstrated how local institutions can become catalysts for public health. The event’s success suggests that similar libraries across the country might consider hosting educational workshops to empower residents with the knowledge and tools to maintain cognitive health.

The article on WFMZ’s website (https://www.wfmz.com/news/area/berks/wyomissing-public-library-hosts-alzheimers-awareness-session-on-brain-health-tips/article_bc178ae0-7785-48f6-8639-15f3b5f8a4fd.html) provides a concise overview of the event and a link to the library’s official event page for those seeking more details or wishing to RSVP for future sessions.