Alzheimer’s disease is more common than you think. This devastating disease impacts many lives. Not only the patients are affected, but their families and friends as well. In Arizona alone, there are an estimated 140,000 people living with Alzheimer’s disease. Although many of our clients and their families already deal with the effects of it, it’s important to know the facts. Through awareness and knowledge, research and advances in treatment can be a real possibility for our future. Most of us know what Alzheimer’s does to a person. However, we often don’t know the statistics.

Alzheimer’s awareness is so important. The Arizona Daily Star discusses the impacts of Alzheimer’s disease. It is estimated that by the year 2025 there will be a 43 percent increase in cases of this disease. In addition, in 2017 in Arizona, 330,000 caregivers spent around 376 million hours of time caregiving for those affected. Much of this was unpaid and done by friends and family members. Clearly, this can cause a lot of stress for caregivers.

There are six active Alzheimer’s prevention studies in the United States. Many studies focus on early detection and prevention. Treatment options for those already affected are being researched and studied. Many studies aim to either delay onset or slow progression. Eventually the goal is to prevent symptoms altogether.

Researchers say there is room for cautious optimism about drugs that slow disease progression. Research on underlying disease process will help guide new treatments. Unfortunately none have proven to be effective yet. However, researchers hope to have new options available within the next two years.

The thought of receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is scary. This fear can prevent people from seeing a doctor about memory loss. Yet doing this can delay treatment and cause worsened symptoms. Not all memory loss is related to Alzheimer’s. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor about your symptoms, which may be as curable as a UTI.

Regardless of all these frightening statistics, know that you there is support out there. You are not alone. There are individuals and agencies that can help and provide support and care. Companies like Arizona Elder Care know firsthand the impacts this disease has on individuals and families. Supports like our social workers, licensed fiduciaries and caregivers can support you through this difficult journey. We are here and ready to help you.

Photo Credit: Arizona Daily Star