Western Oklahoma to “Paint the Town Purple” for Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, a time to recognize the impact of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias on families and communities. The Western Oklahoma Alzheimer’s Collaborative (WOAC), based in Elk City, is leading local efforts with Paint the Town Purple Week, taking place June 17–21.
WOAC partners with local businesses, restaurants, and organizations to raise awareness and support for those affected by dementia in Western Oklahoma. Highlights include the Virtual Dementia Tour on June 18 in Elk City and June 19 in Clinton, where participants can experience what it’s like to live with dementia—an eye-opening tool for caregivers and professionals. The week wraps up with “Dancing Through the Decades” on June 20 at Lake Elk City Beach, featuring music, food, games, and fundraising activities.
As a supporter of the initiative, Chloe Nutley, long-term care ombudsman supervisor with SWODA’s Area Agency on Aging, encourages the public to get involved. “Many long-term care residents in our region are living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia,” Nutley said. “We want to help raise awareness and promote resources that make a difference.”
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, working to ensure their rights, dignity and quality of care are protected. WOAC invites everyone to wear purple, shop local, and take part in events throughout the week. For more information, visit www.woac-ec.org or contact Julie Western at 580-3392984.
If you would like to volunteer or have any other questions or concerns regarding the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, please contact your local ombudsman supervisor, Chloe Nutley, at 580-821-4068 or [email protected].
