More Than 1 of Every 2 Americans Knows Someone with Alzheimer's

Contributed by: Dennis Fortier, President, Medical Care Corporation
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A recent poll by Abt SRBT, a social policy research and consulting firm, showed that 55% of Americans know either a friend or family member with Alzheimer's disease. This is consistent with other reports showing that 1 out of every 2 families has been directly touched by this progressive neurological disorder.

While this is an alarming figure, the high prevalence of exposure is driving rapid increases in awareness and education which are, in turn, reducing the stigma historically associated with dementia. This is a painful but important process that will help us prepare to face this disease head on, to increase vigilance toward early signs of memory loss, and to actively voice concerns to our physicians when subtle symptoms emerge.

While it is a shame that Alzheimer's disease is now touching such a high percentage of American lives, its rising impact is driving visible increases in awareness, understanding, and new research in the field.
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A better understanding and more awareness of Alzheimer's related issues can impact personal health decisions and generate significant impact across a population of aging individuals. Please use the share buttons below to spread this educational message as widely as possible.