Alzheimer’s in Kansas: Impact, Resources, and Upcoming Events

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing public health concern across the United States, and Kansas is no exception. This progressive neurodegenerative disorder, the most common form of dementia, affects memory, thinking, and behavior, profoundly impacting individuals, families, and communities. In Kansas, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s is significant, and the demand for resources and support continues to rise. This blog explores the scope of Alzheimer’s in Kansas, available resources for families, and highlights upcoming events like the Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” activities and the Kansas Education Conference on Dementia, as well as the vital role of local services like Touching Hearts at Home in McPherson, KS.

The Scope of Alzheimer’s in Kansas

According to the Alzheimer’s Association Kansas Facts and Figures, in 2020, approximately 55,000 Kansans aged 65 and older were living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. This number is projected to grow to 62,000 by 2025, reflecting a 12.7% increase. This rise is driven by an aging population, particularly the Baby Boomer generation, and underscores the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and comprehensive care. Alzheimer’s accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases, making it a leading cause of cognitive impairment in the state.

Beyond those diagnosed, the ripple effect is immense. In 2022, around 89,000 Kansas caregivers provided over 125 million hours of unpaid care to loved ones with dementia, valued at more than $1.99 billion. These caregivers—often family members—face emotional, physical, and financial challenges, highlighting the critical need for support services. Kansas also grapples with a shortage of specialized care providers, such as neurologists and geriatricians, particularly in rural areas, which complicates access to timely diagnosis and treatment.

Resources for Families in Kansas

Fortunately, Kansas offers a range of resources to support individuals with Alzheimer’s and their families. The Alzheimer’s Association, a leading organization in dementia care, operates two chapters in Kansas—the Heart of America Chapter and the Central and Western Kansas Chapter—serving all 105 counties. These chapters provide free programs, including:

• 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900): Specialists and master’s-level clinicians offer confidential support, crisis assistance, and education on Alzheimer’s symptoms, care strategies, and more, available around the clock.

• Support Groups: Both in-person and virtual groups connect caregivers and families, offering a space to share experiences and coping strategies.

• Education Programs: Free workshops, online training, and community forums provide insights into Alzheimer’s, caregiving techniques, and planning for the future.

• Advocacy and Research: The Alzheimer’s Association advocates for policy changes and funds research to advance treatment and prevention.

The Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) is another vital resource, administering programs through Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). The Kansas Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) at 1-855-200-2372 helps families locate local resources, develop care plans, and access publicly funded services. KDADS also collaborates with initiatives like Trualta, a free online platform offering caregiver training and tips tailored to Kansas residents.

For specialized care, the University of Kansas Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (KU ADRC) in Fairway, KS (913-588-0555, kuadrc@kumc.edu) provides screening, diagnosis, and access to research studies. The KU ADRC’s Cognitive Care Network enhances early diagnosis and support by training primary care physicians across Kansas to integrate cognitive screening and treatment into their practices.

Touching Hearts at Home: Dedicated Support in Central and Rural Kansas

For families in central and rural Kansas, Touching Hearts at Home, based in McPherson, KS, offers personalized, compassionate care for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia. This home care service is dedicated to supporting clients and families in communities such as Abilene, Salina, Lindsborg, McPherson, Newton, Hillsboro, Hutchinson, Great Bend, Lyons, Russell, Ellsworth, and areas in between. Their services are designed to ease the burden on families while promoting independence and quality of life for individuals with dementia.

Touching Hearts at Home provides:

• Personalized Care Plans: Tailored assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication reminders, all adapted to the unique needs of those with Alzheimer’s.

• Companionship: Caregivers offer emotional support, engage clients in meaningful activities, and help reduce isolation, which is critical for dementia patients.

• Respite Care: Temporary relief for family caregivers, allowing them time to rest and recharge while ensuring their loved ones are safe and cared for.

• Dementia Expertise: Staff are trained to handle the behavioral and cognitive challenges of Alzheimer’s, providing patience and understanding in every interaction.

By serving rural and central Kansas, Touching Hearts at Home fills a critical gap, bringing professional care to areas where specialized services are often scarce. Families in these regions can rely on this dedicated support to navigate the challenges of dementia with dignity and comfort.

The Longest Day: Alzheimer’s Association Activities in Kansas

The Alzheimer’s Association’s “The Longest Day” is a signature fundraising event held annually on or around June 21, the summer solstice, symbolizing the long, challenging journey of those affected by Alzheimer’s. In Kansas, the Heart of America and Central and Western Kansas Chapters host various activities to raise awareness and funds for care, support, and research. Participants of all ages and abilities are encouraged to engage in activities they love—walking, crafting, baking, or hosting community events—while collecting donations.

In 2025, Kansas communities can expect events like walks, golf tournaments, and virtual fundraisers. For example, the Heart of America Chapter, serving 65 counties in Kansas and Missouri, may organize events in areas like Overland Park (8001 Conser, Suite 240, Overland Park, KS 66208, 913-831-3888). The Central and Western Kansas Chapter, based in Wichita (535 W. Douglas, Suite 150, Wichita, KS 67213, 316-267-7333), might host activities in rural areas. These events are free to join, though fundraising is encouraged to support the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission. Check alz.org for local event details, registration, and ways to participate or donate as the date approaches.

Kansas Education Conference on Dementia: June 26, 2025

Education is key to understanding and managing Alzheimer’s, and the Kansas Education Conference on Dementia, scheduled for June 26, 2025, offers a vital opportunity. Organized to empower caregivers, healthcare professionals, and families, this conference will feature workshops, expert speakers, and practical resources. Many informative speakers are scheduled and topics will include information on early detection, care strategies, legal and financial planning, and the latest research updates.

The 13 Annual Kansas Education Conference on Dementia will be held June 26, 2025 in Mulvane at the Kansas Star Event Center. For more detailed information and to register follow this link: https://www.alz.org/getmedia/62c7faa2-62b1-4e1b-8d85-71f589524821/ked-25-brochure-5-15-25.pdf This conference promises to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to better navigate the Alzheimer’s journey.

Moving Forward: A Call to Action

Alzheimer’s disease poses a significant challenge in Kansas, with 55,000 currently affected and numbers rising. The emotional and economic toll on families and caregivers is profound, but resources like the Alzheimer’s Association, KDADS, the KU ADRC, and Touching Hearts at Home provide a lifeline. Events like The Longest Day and the Kansas Education Conference on Dementia on June 26, 2025, offer hope, education, and community engagement to fight this disease.

Families don’t have to face Alzheimer’s alone. Reach out to the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (800-272-3900), connect with Touching Hearts at Home in McPherson for local care, or participate in upcoming events to make a difference. Together, Kansas can raise awareness, support research, and improve care, moving closer to a world without Alzheimer’s.