The Walk4ALZ & Run4ALZ is Orange County’s largest community event for Alzheimer’s awareness. It has drawn crowds of thousands in the past, and is truly a great time for the Orange County community to come out and stand together in solidarity to fight Alzheimer’s disease.
Here are 7 tips for you and your loved ones to maximize your Walk4ALZ & Run4ALZ experience:
- Bring Plenty of Water
It may be November, and while it may seem like winter is just around the corner, there is still the southern California heat lingering around. Be prepared for the heat, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Bring Comfortable Shoes
The walk route is approximately 2 miles long, and the run route is 5k. Be mindful of your feet and wear comfortable shoes to avoid fatigue and blisters.
- Show Spirit
Create posters and signs to honor the ones for whom you may be walking for. Bring them to the event, and show them off along the route! We love to see the faces of those who are fighting this disease as we walk in solidarity for them.
- Be Prepared for a Loud Environment
While this is a fun day with lots of excitement and energy, this will also be a place that may be overstimulating for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Go slow, check in with your loved one often, take it easy with them and allow them to take breaks as needed.
- Bring Your Four-Legged Friends
Walk4ALZ is dog friendly! Bring your furry best pals, and don’t forget to check out the Doggie Dugout booth and pick up an Alzheimer’s OC dog bandana and puppy treats! Just don’t forget to bring a leash.
- Arrive Early
Don’t forget to arrive early to register and to explore our vendor village. The pre-ceremony will start at 8:30AM, the Run4ALZ will start at 8:45 AM, and theWalk4ALZ will start promptly at 9:00AM.
- Have Fun
Lastly, don’t forget to have fun out there. Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease, and we know how hard it is for those diagnosed and their family members to take on these challenges on a daily basis. The Walk4ALZ and the Run4ALZ is a special day where thousands come together to remember and honor their loved ones. Take lots of photos to remember the day and tag us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Use #WALK4ALZOC and #AlzOC.
