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Scientific Advances and National Goals for Preventing and Treating Alzheimer’s Disease
Ronald Reagan, Rosa Parks, Charleston Heston, Rita Hayworth, Glenn Campbell, and Robin Williams all have this in common….they lived and died with Alzheimer’s Disease. Today is our national day to stop and reflect on this tragic disease. I am not an expert in this field. I have witnessed the impact of dementia disorders and, as a social worker, I know that the family and friends experience tremendous loss and confusing emotions dealing with loved ones. This is our day to learn how and why the brain is impacted by the disease. But first I am sharing our national strategies that thousands of hardworking scientists and practitioners are working on to advance our understanding and treatment.
Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia Disorders
National Plan establishes six ambitious goals to both prevent future cases of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD), and to better meet the needs of the millions of American families currently facing this disease.
- Prevent and Effectively Treat AD/ADRD by 2025.
- Enhance Care Quality and Efficiency.
- Expand Supports for People with AD/ADRD and Their Families.
- Enhance Public Awareness and Engagement.
- Improve Data to Track Progress.
- (NEW) Accelerate Action to Promote Healthy Aging and Reduce Risk Factors for AD/ADRD.
Prevention Requires Lifestyle Changes
- Good nutrition, cut out junk food and eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Know your numbers weight and blood pressure management
- Get moving, exercising regularly including a daily walk
- Limit alcohol use
- Do not smoke
- Get an annual physical
