Virtually every family in America has been touched by Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.  Alzheimer’s itself is the sixth-leading cause of death in America, with one in three older adults dying of the disease. 

Few films capture the reality of Alzheimer’s better than “Iris,” starring Judi Dench, Kate Winslet and Jim Broadbent. The love story traces the relationship of a couple from their college student days, through a loving marriage, to the final days when Iris is overtaken by Alzheimer’s.

A free showing of the movie, sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association’s Washington chapter, will be held at the Grand Cinema at 606 Fawcett Ave. in Tacoma on June 28 at 6:15 p.m.  Admission is free, but reservations are required by calling 253-798-8787. 

The screening will include informational resources and services for families on the journey with Alzheimer’s. A panel of providers in Pierce County will lead a short discussion after the film. 

“Iris” is based on the true story of Irish novelist Iris Murdoch and her relationship with John Bayley. Dame Jean Iris Murdoch was an Anglo-Irish novelist and philosopher, best known for her novels about good and evil, sexual relationships, morality, and the power of the unconscious. Her first published novel, â€œUnder the Net,” was selected in 1998 as one of Modern Library’s 100 best English-language novels of the 20th century.

While research continues at a feverish pace, today there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia. There are several medications available to help ease symptoms, the Alzheimer’s Association notes, and caregivers have numerous resources to help in their caregiving duties – support groups, educational opportunities, respite programs and more. 

The Alzheimer’s Association provides a 24/7 helpline, care consultation, education, advocacy, early stage programs, and a virtual library. The organization was involved with the creation of Washington State’s Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias (2016). 

Information about the showing of “Iris” is available from Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at 253-798-4600 and www.pierceadrc.org.