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Alzheimer's Awareness Month

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Gloria Smith

Published: November 25, 2009

Since its founding in 1980, the Alzheimer's Association has been the leader in making the fight against Alzheimer's a national priority, a call that resonates during November, which is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.

President Reagan helped launch a national campaign against Alzheimer's disease in 1983 by signing a proclamation declaring November as National Alzheimer's Disease Month. "The emotional, financial and social consequences of Alzheimer's disease are so devastating that it deserves special attention," Reagan said. He went on to advocate research as "the only hope for victims and families." Reagan announced his Alzheimer's diagnosis to the public in November 1994 and passed away in 2004.

In 1983 fewer than 2 million Americans had the disease. Today, the number of individuals with Alzheimer's has soared to as many as 5.3 million and is expected to grow to 16 million by 2050. Currently, Florida has more than 500,000 persons living with Alzheimer's disease.

While there is much we don't know about Alzheimer's disease, tremendous progress is being made, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

The local Florida Gulf Coast Chapter is here to assist and support persons and families coping with Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Our services include: 24-7 confidential helpline, care consultations, caregiver trainings, Medic Alert plus Safe Return, support groups, emergency respite care assistance, lending library, memory screenings, and the Memory Mobile. For additional information and resources, contact the Alzheimer's Association at 1.800.772-8672 or visit www.alz.org/FlGulfCoast

Gloria Smith
Florida Gulf Chapter Of the Alzheimer's Association Sebring

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