In June, people raise awareness for Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month. Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks, according to the Alzheimer's Association.
Here are five things you need to know about the disease:
1. It’s incredibly costly
Early and accurate diagnosis could save yp to $7.9 trillion in medical and care costs, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. In 2018, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation about $277 billion. By 2050, these costs could rise as high as $1.1 trillion.
2. Millions are living with it
Approximately 5.7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, this number is projected to rise to nearly 14 million. Every 65 seconds, someone in the U.S. develops the disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
We are here if you need us. Call our free 24/7 Helpline at 1-800-272-3900. pic.twitter.com/flAVLm1WDL
— Alzheimer's Assoc. (@alzassociation) May 28, 2018
3. And millions die from it
It is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S., and about one in three senior citizens die with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Associaton. Between 2000 and 2015, deaths from heart disease decreased by 11 percent, but deaths related to Alzheimer’s disease increased 123 percent.
4. There are many signs and symptoms
Memory loss that disrupts daily life could be a symptom of something much more serious. Alzheimer’s symptoms include: Challenges in planning or solving problems; difficulty completing familiar tasks; confusion with time or place; trouble understanding visual images; new problems with words; misplacing things; poor judgment; changes in mood or personality; withdrawal from work or social activities.
“When Coach #PatSummitt, my college coach & second mom, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it affected all of us. It opened up my eyes to how many people are living with Alzheimer’s or caring for someone who is.” -@Candace_Parker #EndAlzheimers pic.twitter.com/KEcxfrQ37i pic.twitter.com/W7kZwexC4y
— Alzheimer's Assoc. (@alzassociation) June 1, 2018
5. How can people help end Alzheimer’s?
Thousands of advocates help influence national policy and create widespread awareness of this devastating disease with the Alzheimer's Association. You can also make a donation to The Longest Day or Walk to End Alzheimer's in cities across the U.S.
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