Dear Editor:
The recently released Alzheimer’s Association 2014 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures reveals that almost two thirds of American’s living with Alzheimer’s disease are women and that more than 60 percent of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers are women. A woman’s estimated lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s at age 65 is 1 in 6, compared with nearly 1 in 11 for a man.
While breast cancer is a very real and important concern for women and it deserves continued attention and investment of resources, the Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures reveals that women in their 60s are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease over the rest of their lives than they are to develop breast cancer. In New Jersey, it is estimated that by 2025, the number of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease will increase by 24 percent from 2014.
The statistics are startling and frightening, and the impact on our families is real. Alzheimer’s disease changes families forever as fading memories impact everyday relationships. The emotional impact is overwhelming and the cost of care is devastating.
The Alzheimer’s Association is launching a national initiative this spring to highlight the power of women in the fight against this disease. I ask your readers to join me in advocating for an end to Alzheimer’s disease. We can have a tremendous impact when we work together. Learn more about Alzheimer’s disease at www.alz.org/nj or contact us at njadvocacy@alz.org. Thank you.
Kathleen Townshend Dugan
Board Chair
Alzheimer’s Association, Greater New Jersey Chapter