Spreading Awareness About Alzheimer’s Disease

Spreading Awareness About Alzheimer’s Disease

Did you know?

One in seven Americans age 60 and older have a brain condition that could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease? It’s called mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that’s often confused with normal aging, because the symptoms are very subtle – such as forgetting people’s names or forgetting a story.

“According to a report from the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 80% of Americans know little about or are not familiar at all with MCI,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “Working with seniors and their families, we understand that just thinking about the possibility of Alzheimer’s is very scary. But it’s important to see a doctor if you suspect Alzheimer’s or another dementia, because an early diagnosis gives patients a growing more treatment options.”

Show Your Support

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month – a time to show support for those living with the Alzheimer’s and their caregivers while heightening awareness about the disease. In a report released earlier this year, the Alzheimer’s Association found that:

• More than 6.2 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s.

• The number of people living with Alzheimer’s is expected to surpass 13.8 million by 2060.

• One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

• In 2022, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the nation $321 billion. By 2050, these costs could rise to $1 trillion.

• Between 2000 and 2019, deaths from heart disease decreased 7.3%. During that same time period, deaths from Alzheimer’s disease increased 145%.

• Alzheimer’s disease kills more people than breast and prostate cancer combined.

• More than 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.

• These caregivers provided more than 16 billion hours of care valued at nearly $272 billion.

Committed to Helping Families

“Many of us at HCAN have personal experience with Alzheimer’s, so we understand the many challenges that come with the disease,” Goetz said. “We are committed to helping families better understand Alzheimer’s and navigate their care journey.”

HCAN’s professional caregivers are trained to provide exceptional care for those living with Alzheimer’s disease – helping them remain safely in their homes for as long as possible, while giving family members much needed peace of mind. 

Education Classes

In addition to providing in-home care, our experienced team also offers Family & Friends Dementia Education classes – two hour sessions designed to help people better understand the stages of the disease and how they can overcome some of the challenges. 

For more information about Alzheimer’s care services or to learn more about the Family and Friends Dementia Education class, visit hcanthrive.com or call your local HCAN-supported office.