Alzheimer’s Case Statement
Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research and promotion of brain health, while simultaneously enhancing care and support for all individuals, their families, and caregivers.
Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s disease.
Research
Alzheimer’s disease affects more than 5.3 million Americans and has recently become a priority within the scientific community. According to a statement made by a group of Concerned Universities and Research Institutions, Alzheimer’s disease has emerged as one of the most important diseases in the 21st Century, with a new case diagnosed every 70 seconds. Discoveries acknowledged at the International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease in 2008 include:
Early Alzheimer’s detection—improved diagnostic procedures allow both a better quality of life as well as provide the path for clinical trials targeted to one day finding a cure.
Risk factors—empowering individuals to modify diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors to improve brain health.
Innovative treatments—allowing patients to live more comfortably.
Future
Without these research advancements, clinical trials—which are imperative for finding a cure—would not be possible. If a cure is not found:
Alzheimer’s disease will bankrupt the healthcare system as we know it.
By mid-century, someone will develop Alzheimer’s every 33 seconds.
Programs and Services
Our Georgia Chapter is a recognized leader nationwide in providing exemplary Programs and Services to families. We served more than 125,000 individuals in 2008. Alzheimer’s has become the sixth leading cause of death in our country and demand for Programs and Services is multiplying. Deaths from the top five causes has decreased from 2000-2006, while deaths from Alzheimer’s has increased a staggering 41.7 percent. Due to this rapid growth, if financial support is not there to meet the demand, families could be denied the programs and services we provide. Of your contribution, 79 percent will go directly to aid these individuals.
“As I write this letter to you and your organization, I think how wonderful it is to be able to leave home for a few hours and, while I’m gone, I don’t have to worry about what is going on with mom.” I. Brown, Caregiver—Participant Caregiver Timeout Program.
Wandering
Georgia has 200,000 individuals with Alzheimer’s and 70 percent of these wander. Six individuals have been found deceased this year alone, most only miles from their homes. If found within 24 hours, with adequate tracking, their chances of survival would have increased by more than 50 percent. Funding for our Medic Alert/Safe Return Program as well as comprehensive education provided to law enforcement is desperately needed to keep Georgians safe.
Request
The scientific community is generating advances with Alzheimer’s daily, and necessity for our Programs and Services is on the rise. Please consider making a gift today to the Alzheimer’s Association. Your general contribution will be allocated among our Programs and Services, which will assist Alzheimer’s patients and their families directly. Your gift of:
$2,500 provides a year of Caregiver Timeout for two families
$5,000 assists 120 people through our 24-Hour Help Line
$10,000 enrolls 180 individuals in our Medic Alert/Safe Return Program
$25,000 serves 1,155 individuals yearly through our support groups
Five years ago I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and the first place I turned to was the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. My family and I knew nothing about what we were facing and what to expect. When we called the Association, we were greeted by friendly people who referred us to resources to help us deal with our situation. Over these last few years the Association has been there to guide us, support us and to put us in touch with other families that are dealing with this dreaded disease. Their support has given us a comfort level in dealing with our challenges. – Kris Bakowski, Advocate/Patient
By contributing to the Alzheimer’s Association, you are engaging in the lives of Alzheimer’s individuals daily—providing care and support otherwise unattainable. On behalf of the Georgia Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, we are grateful for your generosity and your belief in our mission.