GFWC focuses on Alzheimer’s
The GFWC Book Lovers Study Club focused on Alzheimer’s awareness during its March meeting at Russellville First Baptist Church.
Alzheimer’s disease gradually robs people of memory, independence and the ability to carry out daily tasks.About 55 million people worldwide live with dementia, including more than 7 million Americans.
Nearly 12 million people in the United States provide unpaid care for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. The cost of care is expected to reach $384 billion in 2025 and could climb to nearly $1 trillion by mid-century.
The GFWC Alabama president’s project, “Mental Health: Compassion in Action,” addresses issues including autism, Alzheimer’s disease, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety and abuse.
The Book Lovers Study Club plans to present a donation supporting Alzheimer’s efforts at the Alabama North District meeting this month.
For the club’s March project, members donated gifts for bingo prizes at Country Cottage Assisted Living.
Club members examined Alzheimer’s warning signs and caregiver challenges: Recognizing Alzheimer’s warning signs Memory loss that disrupts daily life, such as forgetting recently learned information, missing important dates or asking the same questions repeatedly.
Difficulty planning or solving problems, including trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.
Withdrawal from work or social activities as conversations become harder to follow or maintain.
Changes in mood and personality, including confusion, suspicion, depression, anxiety or becoming easily upset in familiar settings.
They also learned what to do if you notice warning signs in yourself or a loved one: Schedule an appointment with a doctor to discuss symptoms and possible evaluations.
Write down specific changes you’ve noticed, including when they started.
Bring a trusted family member or friend to help provide information.
Ask about screenings, referrals or next steps if concerns remain More information and support are available through the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs International partners with the Alzheimer’s Association as part of its advocacy efforts. The organization focuses on research, early detection, and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In addition to the Alzheimer’s program, the club recognized a recent outreach effort supporting the Colbert County Girls Ranch.
Sheila Upchurch reported members donated $500 to support 16 girls at the ranch. As committee chairmen, Upchurch and Michelle Sibley also arranged a meal for the girls and five house parents at Rancho. Five of the girls were celebrating birthdays and shared a cake during the visit.
Upchurch described the response as heartfelt, saying she and Sibley received hugs and words of appreciation from the girls and encouraged members to remember the house parents who care for them.
For the club’s March project, members donated gifts for bingo prizes at Country Cottage Assisted Living.
Upchurch presented the nomination committee’s report, announcing officers for the 2026–28 term.
Elected officers are President Susie Hovater Malone, Vice President Mona Hanan, Secretary Ponda Gordon, Treasurer Donita Abston, Historian Cheri McCain and Parliamentarian Gayle McAlister.
