According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6.7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 220,000 individuals in Ohio. Photo provided | Seasons

Seasons hosted its first-ever Mahjong fundraising event on March 19, welcoming 70 players of all experience levels for an evening of connection, camaraderie and purpose.

The event, which took place at Seasons, an assisted living center in Kenwood, was held as part of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Do What You Love initiative. It raised $2,375 to support Alzheimer’s care, research and advocacy.

Mahjong is a traditional tile-based game that originated in China and is typically played by four players using a set of 144 tiles. The objective is to be the first to complete a winning hand by forming specific combinations, blending strategy, skill and chance.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6.7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 220,000 individuals in Ohio. Additionally, Alzheimer’s disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and continues to place a significant emotional and financial burden on caregivers.

In Greater Cincinnati, thousands of families are impacted by dementia-related illnesses, creating an ongoing need for resources, education and support services.

The event brought together community members from across Greater Cincinnati who gathered to “BAM, CRACK, and DOT” for a meaningful cause.

This event was in partnership with Senior Care Partners. Both seasoned Mahjong players and beginners enjoyed the opportunity to learn, play and give back.

“We were absolutely thrilled with the turnout and the energy in the room,” said Elizabeth Bangel-Stehlin, senior community relations director at Seasons and past Alzheimer’s Association of Greater Cincinnati Gala Chair. “Alzheimer’s touches so many lives in our community, and to see 70 individuals come together to support this cause through something as joyful as Mahjong was truly special.”

The Mahjong fundraiser is part of Seasons’ ongoing commitment to community engagement and philanthropic initiatives that support older adults and their families. Seasons looks forward to hosting additional opportunities that combine social connection with purpose-driven impact after the success of this inaugural event.

The money raised will go directly toward advancing research and providing critical support to families navigating Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

“Events like this are so important because they bring awareness and support together in a way that feels approachable and meaningful,” said Linda Shaw, senior advisor at Senior Care Partners.