Merced Walk to End Alzheimer’s slated to move forward with new rules amid coronavirus
Amid the growing catalog of local events canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, one annual gathering is looking to adapt and resume under new conditions.
The annual Merced Walk to End Alzheimer’s is moving forward, with public health recommended modifications, the Alzheimer’s Association announced Wednesday.
Set to take place Oct. 3, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging participants to walk as individuals or in small groups on sidewalks, tracks and trails rather than marching all together in a large gathering this year, according to a news release from the group.
The idea is to allow individuals to safely participate under social distancing guidelines, without mixing households.
“For the many people living with Alzheimer’s or caring for loved ones who have the disease, we know that this is a very scary time,” Cheryl Schrock, senior walk manager for the Merced Walk to End Alzheimer’s, said in the release.
Statewide, over 690,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia and it is the third leading cause of death in California, according to the release.
The dollars raised go toward providing care and support for patients with Alzheimer’s, as well as advancing research aimed at methods of treatment and prevention.
In 2019, the Merced Walk raised its highest amount yet at $61,512 as hundreds marched through Applegate Park, the release said.
“We are more committed than ever to support these individuals with a powerful and positive experience, as we do every year, by adhering to public health guidelines while working to find a cure,” Schrock said. “We’re still coming together in 2020, even if it means trying something new.”
Modified event features include a Walk to End Alzheimer’s mobile app. Walkers can share their experience together remotely by viewing the opening ceremonies and sharing photos on the app.
Event organizers encourage walkers to find a safe place to walk either as individuals, or with family. Participants can track their steps and distance on their app.
