Find a way to make life easier for the 5.3 million Americans suffering from Alzheimer's
The numbers keep growing and growing. Back in 1983, President Ronald Reagan issued a Proclamation making November National Alzheimer's Disease Month. At the time, we had approximately 2 million elderly citizens across America suffering from the dreadful disease. According to Alzheimers.net, since that time the numbers of those living with the Alzheimer's disease has increased exponentially to 5.3 million in the United States and 44 million worldwide who are struggling with a dementia related illness. Just in the U.S. alone, the financial costs of caring for Alzheimer's patients in 2016 was a staggering $236 billion. Needless to say, we have a major crisis on our hands.
Without question, Alzheimer's is affecting families and hitting our aging Americans hard. The Alzheimer’s Association says the disease creates a wide variety of problems with memory, thinking and behavior among the elderly. These challenges seem to get worse and worse over time and interfere with routine daily tasks. At the outset, memory loss could be rather mild, but in the later stages Alzheimer's patients have difficulty having a conversation and recognizing their environment. Sadly, there is no cure for Alzheimer's. Thankfully, treatment for symptoms is available to help improve the quality of life for the patients and lab research continues.
VeryWell would like to recognize those with Alzheimer’s and our caregivers by bringing awareness to their challenges with Alzheimer's. Caregivers are our heroes! They are on the front line every single day caring for those with the disease, so it only make sense for us to recognize them too.
How can you make a difference? There are many family members of those with Alzheimer's who would like to get involved or help get the word out but are unsure how to make that step. The good news, even a small strategic message can sometimes get the attention of big donors or legislative leaders. Sharing real life stories can make a big difference. With the numbers of those with Alzheimer’s continuing to escalate annually, now is the perfect time to get involved. VeryWell offers 5 excellent tips on how you can play a role by simply bringing awareness:
- Share an article about Alzheimer's or caregivers on social media.
- Volunteer at a local organization.
- Coordinate support for a friend or neighbor who has dementia or is a caregiver.
- Share your experience or thoughts when you have the opportunity.
- Visit someone with Alzheimer's disease.
As soon as people are educated, they begin to pay attention. By taking a moment to share your words with others, you may help save someone's life. Telling your story about a family member, spouse, friend or neighbor can be powerful. You will never know until you try, so this November join the many businesses, legislative and community leaders by helping bring awareness to those struggling with Alzheimer's and our special life changing caregivers.