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The Growing Alzheimer’s Crisis: What You Need to Know – and How to Help

Every year, the Alzheimer’s Association releases its Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures report – a powerful look at the toll Alzheimer’s and other dementias are taking on individuals, families, and the nation.

The numbers are staggering. But behind every statistic is a real person: a parent, a grandparent, a spouse, or a friend. Watch a short video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lta2-jvsWco.

Here’s what you need to know—and how you can help.

The Facts About Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is more than memory loss. It is a progressive, fatal brain disease that affects thinking, behavior, and the ability to carry out daily activities. And it’s growing at an alarming rate.

  • More than 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s.
  • 1 in 3 older adults dies with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.
  • Alzheimer’s claims more lives than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined.
  • By 2025, the cost of Alzheimer’s and other dementias will reach $384 billion. By 2050, that number could rise to nearly $1 trillion.
  • Nearly 12 million Americans are providing unpaid care for people living with Alzheimer’s—most often family members.

This is not just a health crisis. It’s an economic and emotional one, too.

Americans Want to Know – and Act

Research shows that people want answers and options when it comes to Alzheimer’s:

  • 4 in 5 Americans say they would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s before symptoms interfere with daily life.
  • 92% would want a treatment that could slow the progression of the disease following a diagnosis.

Awareness, early detection, and access to treatment can change the future—not just for individuals, but for society as a whole.

What You Can Do

The Alzheimer’s Association is leading the charge in research, advocacy, support, and education. But we can’t do it alone. Here’s how you can get involved today:

Be Part of the Solution

Every action matters. Whether you’re donating, sharing facts, volunteering, or checking in on a caregiver in your life—you are part of the movement to end Alzheimer’s.

We encourage you to read and share the 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures report at alz.org/facts. The more people who know, the more we can do – together.

If you or someone you care about needs additional support to help cope, The Option Group is here to help. Don’t hesitate to contact our professional care management team for assistance.

About The Option GroupFounded in 2011, The Option Group’s compassionate team of experienced Certified Life Care Managers provides services for families, their loved ones, medical professionals, and professional family advisors in Maryland, DC, Southern Pennsylvania, and Delaware. The firm understands the challenges of caring for individuals who need assistance throughout their lifespan due to aging, dementia, disability, or serious illness. Our skilled providers, with diverse backgrounds and deep expertise, help families navigate the healthcare maze and access hundreds of resources. The Option Group helps families spend quality time with their loved ones, providing Clear Choices that lead to Better Care. For more information, visit www.theoptiongroup.net or call 410-667-0266 (MD), 717-287-9900, 610-885-8899, or 215-896-6756 (PA), or 302-858-6449 (DE).