Letter to the editor: Alzheimer’s awareness
Monday, Nov. 2 is New Jersey Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Day. In honor of people living with Alzheimer’s disease, or in memory of individuals whose lives have been taken by it, including my own Grandmother, we invite the community to wear purple — the signature color of the Alzheimer’s Association — to show support and raise awareness.
Who is at risk for Alzheimer’s disease? Everyone with a brain. Alzheimer’s is a debilitating brain disorder that robs people of their cognitive abilities and ultimately their lives. Every 67 seconds someone in the U.S. develops the disease, which is our nation’s sixth leading cause of death. Alzheimer’s is the only disease in the list of top-10 causes of death for which there is no way to prevent, cure or even slow its progression.
Alzheimer’s has had a profound impact on New Jersey. Consider there are currently 85,000 residents living with Alzheimer’s or a related disorder within seven counties in South Jersey alone. The State will not be immune from future socio and economic impacts of this disease. Between now and 2025, it is projected that our State will have a 23.5 percent increase in residents age 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s. The associated costs to both the families and our State will be staggering.
The New Jersey Alzheimer’s Disease Study Commission is finalizing a report of its findings and recommendations to Governor Christie about the future impact and incidence within the State. We urge the Governor to make the Commission’s report a priority and ask that he fully support the recommendations once published. Doing so will help raise awareness about one of this country’s most significant health epidemics; facilitate the continued development of integrated and responsive community-based services; and ease the burden on persons with Alzheimer’s disease and their family members and caregivers through expanded support.
The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. More information about Alzheimer’s disease or the Alzheimer’s Association’s Delaware Valley Chapter’s programs and services is available at the 24/7 Helpline, 800.272.3900,or online at www.alz.org/delval.
Catherine E. Nakonetschny
