LBDA launches nationwide Lewy body dementia awareness movement

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Lewy Body Dementia Association (LBDA), the only nonprofit organization in the United States dedicated to supporting LBD families through outreach, education and research. Today LBDA launched its nationwide Lewy body dementia (LBD) awareness movement, "A Month to Remember." LBDA invites volunteers to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the organization by joining the movement and "Standing Strong with LBDA" to build awareness for LBD in their communities in October.

The LBD Awareness Movement is a national, grass roots effort to increase LBD awareness in the general public and medical profession. Participants in the movement can get involved with LBDA in several ways by selling flowers to benefit LBDA on LBD Flower Day, October 6th, distributing materials to local physicians' offices, hosting a fundraising or outreach event or telling their personal LBD story to the media.

Lewy body dementia (LBD) affects an estimated 1.3 million individuals and their families in the United States. It is currently widely underdiagnosed because LBD symptoms can closely resemble other more commonly known diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Many doctors or other medical professionals still are not familiar with LBD. Early diagnosis allows for important early treatment that may extend quality of life.

"Raising awareness of Lewy body dementia is vital to LBDA's mission. Awareness volunteers help raise LBD awareness and funds for LBDA and make a positive difference in the lives of those touched by LBD. Our national network of volunteers are the heart of our service and the soul of our mission." said Michael Koehler, President of LBDA's Board of Directors.