Why More Attention Should Be Given To Alzheimer's Disease

Ebola is a serious concern. It has been discussed on every news show and in every blog post. Celebrities and health officials alike are speaking out about the crisis. While there is no denying the severity of this issue, it brings one question to mind: what about Alzheimer's disease? Thus far, there have been four cases of Ebola in the United States. Compare that to the millions of people currently living with Alzheimer's disease. Not to mention the 500, 000 deaths related to the disease each year in North America. If anything, the prompt response to the Ebola crisis highlights the need for an increased focus on Alzheimer's disease. That includes research, treatment options, and care giving.
Simply put, more attention should be given to Alzheimer's. This degenerative brain disease impacts the lives of patients and families all over the world. In fact, an estimated thirty million people are currently living with the disease - and that number is expected to soar over the next several decades. This issue is made more problematic as there is no known cure. So, why is it that the United States administration has requested over $6 billion to stop Ebola? That same administration hasn't put that amount of money into Alzheimer's research in the last decade.
Think about the numbers. By the time you reach the age of 65, your chances of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease are 1 in 9. Once you reach 85, that number increases to 1 in 3. Despite the greater risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to many other diseases (Ebola is a prime example), it is given little attention. Perhaps this is because Alzheimer's is thought of as a disease for the elderly. Or maybe it has something to do with the fact that there is no proven way to avoid developing the disease. It is seen as inevitable.... and that makes it less buzz worthy. The result? Fewer news stories, articles, and awareness given to a serious brain disease. One that affects the lives and independence of so many.
There is no question more attention should be given to Alzheimer's disease. The real question is: will it? With a heightened focus on health issues like Ebola, there seems to be less and less of a discussion on Alzheimer's as a whole - let alone new research methods and treatment strategies. That leaves overworked caregivers and patients lacking hope. For real change to take place more money needs to be put into research, In addition, further awareness needs to be raised. Only then can positive changes begin to take shape.
Ebola has managed to worry men and women all over North America. This is understandable. There is no doubt the disease is scary and deadly. However, it is also incredibly rare. Alzheimer's is far more common and is just as troubling for patients living with the disease. That is why now is the time to take action. Putting more into research and treatment options is the most effective way to deal with this deadly disease.
Are you looking for more information about aging related memory loss? Contact the Age Matters Clinic at: 647-268-0620. We understand how to improve the life of Alzheimer's and memory loss patients.