Alzheimer’s is stealing our loved ones. It’s time to take action
Imagine watching someone you love with all your heart slowly disappear. All the memories, all the happy moments, all the joy you shared together … gone. The smiles they once had are replaced with worry and fear.
Over the past few years, I’ve watched someone I consider my second mother succumb to the grips of Alzheimer’s disease. Gloria has been there for me in so many moments of my life. But piece by piece, watching her lose herself has been devastating.
In South Florida and across the state, we are experiencing what many call an Alzheimer’s crisis. In Miami-Dade and Broward counties alone, almost 13% of the adult population over 65 are living with the disease. And based on a new Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, that number is expected to rise in the coming years. It is forcing many to make decisions they never fathomed.
More than 800,000 Floridians are now serving as de facto caregivers. In my role as the executive director for the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter, I see the impact this has on families and communities. For many, it makes them feel as if they have at least some control over a disease that cannot be stopped. They can be there for a loved one in ways only a caregiver can. But the impact this disease is having on our state cannot be underestimated.
Our dementia-care workforce must increase by 27% by 2028 to meet the growing demand. That is why, together, we must prioritize policies and actions that care for our most vulnerable. Recently, the Florida Legislature approved $12 million in additional funding for the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative, $9 million in additional funding for the Community Care for the Elderly and $5 million in additional funding for the Ed and Ethel Moore Alzheimer’s Research Program. That’s on top of the $40 million already earmarked for Alzheimer’s respite, support and research.
As individuals, we must know the signs and symptoms. An early diagnosis can mean time for the family to prepare, seek treatment when available and, most important, understand what is happening and seek help. Trust me when I tell you, you cannot go on this journey alone. Studies show it takes as many as four caregivers to provide adequate support for just one individual with Alzheimer’s. It truly takes a village.
The report also shines a light on the alarming lack of familiarity many Americans have with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and MCI due to Alzheimer’s disease. Most confuse MCI with normal aging, but it’s not. It can be a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease and affects 12% to
18% of individuals age 60 and older.
An early diagnosis of
MCI creates new opportunities to enroll in clinical trials. Right now, Alzheimer’s has no cure. However, new advances are coming. When loved ones receive an early diagnosis, it allows them to participate in these studies that I believe will one day lead to a cure.
Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Know the signs and symptoms, advocate for family and friends and seek help. Cal the Alzheimer’s Association Southeast Florida Chapter, 24/7, at 800272-3900 or get involved at alz.org/SEflorida.
Together, we can tackle this disease that is taking our loved ones, like Gloria. We owe it to her and all the Floridians affected by this disease to do more and do better.