Alzheimer’s disease – what it is and what the Alzheimer’s Association is doing about it

AlzheimersAssnlogoUnderstanding the Reality. Alzheimer’s disease is:

  • A physical disease that destroys brain cells, shuts down normal body functions and is ultimately fatal
  • Not a normal part of aging
  • Not limited to the elderly
  • Not currently curable
  • Affecting 1 in 8 individuals over 65 years of age, and nearly half of those over 85

med081Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating disease that impairs memory, reasoning, motor skills and the ability to take care of oneself. The impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families and our health care system makes the disease one of our nation’s primary medical, social and fiscal challenges.

Understanding the reality.  Alzheimer’s disease is:

  • The most expensive disease in the United States: it is responsible for over $173 billion in annual costs
  • The 6th leading cause of death in America
  • Not limited to the elderly, with people in their 30s, 40s and 50s developing the disease.
  • Currently affecting more than 5.4 million Americans, resulting in 16 million Alzheimer and dementia caregivers who provide over $144 billion in unpaid care for their loved ones
  • A disease someone in America develops every 68 seconds and by mid-century someone will develop Alzheimer’s every 33 seconds
  • Half of adult Americans age 35 and older know someone with Alzheimer’s disease

rhm114There is Hope
The Alzheimer’s Association is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer care, support and research.  We have made tremendous strides in understanding the nature of AD and some of its risk reductions.  As a result, we have more accurate diagnoses and treatments, and the outlook for managing the disease is more hopeful than ever before.  The Alzheimer’s Association has invested more than $300 million in Alzheimer research and is a catalyst for generating new knowledge about AD and other dementias.  The San Antonio office of the Alzheimer’s Association opened in 1989 and has been the leading source of information, education and support for South Texas individuals, caregivers and care professionals who face dementia every day.  Help us end Alzheimer’s disease and join our cause.  Call #210-822-6449 or visit www.alz.org/sanantonio for more information.