Alzheimer’s must be a public health priority
To the editor:
Congress just passed the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act with a strong bipartisan vote. The act is now law, and I want to thank Sen. Todd Young, R-Ind., for championing this meaningful legislation. With his support for BOLD, we will now be better able to fight this devastating disease as we continue to work toward our vision of a world without Alzheimer’s — and we look forward to seeing him continue to prioritize this disease as a public health crisis that must be addressed.
As a former caregiver and an Alzheimer’s Ambassador, it is my honor to represent the families struggling because of a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or other dementia. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates there are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease and more than 16 million Alzheimer’s caregivers
Every 65 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer’s disease — which is why Congress must remain committed to action on this devastating disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures, by 2050, the total cost of care for Alzheimer’s is projected to increase to more than $1.1 trillion. The report also revealed that Alzheimer’s-related costs have soared to $277 billion in the last year, including $186 billion in costs to Medicare and Medicaid.
By applying a public health approach to reduce risk, detect early symptoms and advance care, Sen. Todd Young is helping to change the trajectory of this devastating disease.
To learn more about Alzheimer’s and how you can join the fight to end Alzheimer’s, visit alz.org.
Diana Dijak
Greenfield
