On June 12, more than 50 Lake Wales residents gathered to race purple ducks for a cause. Water’s Edge at Lake Wales hosted the event for the Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day initiative. Attendees raced purple ducks, raising more than $700 for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. 
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that impacts thinking, memory and behavior. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 18,000 Polk County residents are estimated to be living with the disease. Florida has the second highest number of individuals living with Alzheimer’s in the U.S.
Age is the greatest risk factor, with the risk for Alzheimer’s doubling every five years after age 65. Other risk factors include family history, genetics and lifestyle.
A dramatic increase in research funding over the last decade through events like The Longest Day has resulted in new treatments for Alzheimer’s that have been shown to slow the progression of the disease. Additional treatments are expected to receive FDA approval in 2024.
For more information, visit alz.org/TLD or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900. 
