Alzheimer’s Association SC highlights “truths” about the disease during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month in June
June 15, 2016
COLUMBIA, SC – It is common knowledge that Alzheimer’s disease robs people of their ability to remember, but other truths about the disease remain unknown. For instance, many people are unaware that Alzheimer’s is a fatal disease, its symptoms extend further than memory loss and that early diagnosis matters.
“People tend to talk about Alzheimer’s disease the way we used to talk about cancer, keeping it hidden,” said Cindy Alewine, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, South Carolina Chapter. “In many cases, common myths discourage individuals from discussing their concerns with family members or healthcare providers. We want South Carolinians to know that early detection of Alzheimer’s has enormous benefits for diagnosed individuals and their families.”
More than 5 million people are living with Alzheimer’s disease, but only about half have been diagnosed. Additionally, less than half (45 percent) of seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or their caregivers are aware of the diagnosis. Diagnosis is often delayed due to low public awareness of the early signs of Alzheimer’s and general misperceptions about Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
Greater understanding is urgently needed given the dramatic impact of the disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States and the only cause of death among the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.
• Alzheimer’s disease is fatal – there are no survivors. More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, including 84,000 in South Carolina.
• Alzheimer’s disease is not normal aging. Alzheimer’s is a fatal and progressive disease that attacks the brain, killing nerve cells and tissue, affecting an individual’s ability to remember, think and plan. Brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s may begin 20 or more years before symptoms appear.
• Early detection matters. Early diagnosis provides individuals and their caregivers with access to available treatments, support services, and the opportunity to enroll in clinical trials. The care team can better manage co-occurring conditions and reduce the risk for falls and injuries. Early diagnosis also allows the individual with the disease to be involved in his or her own care when cognition is least affected, helping to build their care team and establish advanced care and financial plans.
• Alzheimer’s cannot be prevented, but adopting healthy habits can reduce your risk of cognitive decline and contribute to brain health. Staying mentally active, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a healthy diet benefits your body and your brain. There is also some evidence people may benefit from staying socially engaged with friends, family and the community. The Alzheimer’s Association is sharing steps to reduce your risk of cognitive decline with 10 Ways to Love Your Brain.
• Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease in the country. Alzheimer’s disease remains one of the most critical public health issues in America, costing taxpayers $18.3 million each hour. The total national cost of caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias are estimated at $236 billion a year, of which $160 billion is the cost to Medicare and Medicaid alone. As the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s grows, the total annual payments for health care, long-term care and hospice care for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias are projected to increase to more than $1 trillion in 2050.
The Alzheimer’s Association works with caregivers to enhance care and support for all those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Some of the resources available in South Carolina include local education programs, support groups and caregiver respite. Online resources and information are available through the Association’s website at alz.org and a 24/7 Helpline can be reached at 800.272.3900.
During Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month, the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging everyone to uncover the truth about Alzheimer’s and to show their support for people living with the disease by doing the following:
• Participate in The Longest Day®on June 20, a sunrise-to-sunset event to honor those facing Alzheimer’s disease with strength, heart and endurance.
• Join the Alzheimer’s Association in wearing purple throughout the month, especially on June 20. Share photos of yourself, family, friends and co-workers wearing the movement’s signature color via Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc. with the hashtag #ENDALZ.
• Visit alz.org to uncover the critical truths about Alzheimer’s and why they matter.
Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. It is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research. The Association’s mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s.
Visit alz.org or call 800-272-3900.
