Consumer Health Minute: Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted by Carolyn Martin on November 3rd, 2023 Posted in: Consumer Health, Health Observances
Tags: Alzheimer's Disease, caregivers, caregiving, consumer health, National Health Observances, older adults

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Over 6 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease, according to the  Alzheimer’s Association’s most recent annual report. This report is packed with information you might find helpful as a large part of our population continues to age, many with Alzheimer’s or related dementias. Here are just a few facts from the report:

• Deaths from Alzheimer’s have more than doubled between 2000 and 2019, while those from heart disease — the leading cause of death — have decreased.
• Older Black Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older Whites.
• Older Hispanics are about one and one-half times as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older Whites.
• More women than men have AD and other dementias, almost two-thirds of Americans with AD are women.
• Over 11 million Americans provide unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
• In 2022, unpaid caregivers provided an estimated 18 billion hours of care valued at $339.5 billion.

While these few facts are interesting, reading the full report will provide more context to get a better understanding of AD and other dementias its prevalence as well as the impact on a societal level and for individuals.

Your patrons may be seeking information about these dementias whether in regard to their own health or it may be regarding a family member, friend, or colleague. November is both National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month making it a good time to bring awareness and to highlight some resources.

MedlinePlus links:

• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Dementia
• Mild Cognitive Impairment

NIH National Institute on Aging links:

• Alzheimer’s and Dementia
• Alzheimers.gov
• Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center

Caregiving is a big part of Alzheimer’s. Many times caregivers are female family members who may also be caring for children. The cost can be high financially and emotionally. Here are some resources for caregivers.

• MedlinePlus health topic, Alzheimer’s Caregivers
• Alzheimers.gov, Tips for Caregivers and Families of People With Dementia
• CDC, For Caregivers, Family, and Friends
• Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline

Your patrons or clients may prefer some print materials. Your library or organization can order free publications from the NIH National Institute on Aging but know that individuals can also order these as well.