Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Statement on Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
“Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is a time to heighten understanding about Alzheimer’s and show support for the millions of people living with this disease and their caregivers. But it should also be a time to redouble efforts to help all those affected by Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in America, and the only one in the top ten without a cure or reversible treatment. The death rate from Alzheimer’s rose by more than 50% between 1999 and 2014. 5 million Americans are living with the disease right now, and that number may triple by 2050. Until a cure is found, caregiving is essential.
Across the nation, millions of Americans are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. These selfless individuals devote themselves entirely to providing care and comfort, doing their best to preserve that person’s quality of life. Day in and day out, they stand side by side with their loved ones dealing with the many challenges this illness causes. Support is the most valuable form of gratitude we can give them.
As America raises Alzheimer’s awareness this month, we as a nation should also recommit ourselves to devoting more resources to help those living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Let’s deliver additional research funding to help the dedicated scientists who are working to find a cure. And let’s promise never to stop working until a cure is found.”
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