This Tuesday, September 21, is World Alzheimer’s Day – a day dedicated to raising global awareness about a disease which affects an estimated 5.3 million people here in the United States. The number of Alzheimer’s cases continues to grow at an increasing rate, escalating the need for more information, support, and research than ever before. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia worldwide. It is progressive, irreversible, and devastating.
This year’s theme for World Alzheimer’s Day is “Dementia. It’s time for action!” The hope this year is to get public policy makers to take notice of the Alzheimer’s epidemic and to also raise overall public awareness. Creating a broader understanding of the current problem and growing challenges is a critical step in increasing services that help better the lives of those with an Alzheimer’s diagnosis.
True to this year’s theme, one significant effort started in July is the Alzheimer’s Breakthrough Ride, which is a group of Alzheimer researchers riding their bicycles cross-country from San Francisco to Washington D.C. obtaining petition signatures that will be presented to Congress on Tuesday. The petition asks Congress to make Alzheimer’s disease a national priority. There is still time to assist their efforts and you can show your support in various ways by clicking here and either signing the petition, donating money, or possibly riding with the team if you happen to be close to their route. Alternatively, you may be interested in participating in the “Memory Walk” which is the United States’ largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer causes and is being conducted all over the United States. Click the “Memory Walk” link to see what is going on in your area and explore possible ways to contribute.
Knowledge is one of the most important weapons against Alzheimer’s. Creating awareness about Alzheimer’s, and drawing attention to the need for further research is a key component to ending this terrible disease.
If you are personally concerned about Alzheimer’s you can learn 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease by clicking here, or you can participate in brain fitness to increase your cognitive reserve which has been shown in scientific research studies to be one of your best defenses against Alzheimer’s.
One Comment
Sony Roy, CEO BAFU USA
My staff and I greatly appreciate your views expressed here about the importance of brain fitness and the impact of Alzheimer’s on the American population. The level of awareness you are bringing about this killing disease is Right-on-the-money, partner. Great write up about this killing disease. More and more individuals like you should participate in writing about the impact of this malady on families.
My staff and I hope to meet you and your group to further the cause one day. If there is anything or support you need in the fight, count on us for participation and involvement.