among all Americans. With no known
cure, research becomes a critical
component of the national focus of
the Alzheimer’s Association. At the
forefront of research into Alzheimer’s
disease, Southern California receives
more funds in the effort to find a cure
than any other region in the country.
$12.3 million of current funding from
the Alzheimer’s Association has made
San Diego a pivotal center of activity.
The Walk to End
Alzheimer’s
Recent breakthroughs have been
encouraging, though an actual
cure will be many years, if not
decades away. It is already known
that a combination of many lifestyle
activities, including exercise, diet,
not smoking, social engagement
and brain-centered activities, started
before symptoms appear, may delay
the conscious and visible onset of the
disease for many years.
The Alzheimer’s Association also
recruits advocates in the community
so that the need for Alzheimer’s care,
education and research is heard at
every level of government. This has
helped to pass landmark legislation,
and ultimately, funding.
Promotoras at the
Alzheimer’s Walk
consultations, support groups both in-person and by telephone,
safety programs and education programs in both English and
Spanish, both online and in person, on topics such as diagnosis,
warning signs, communication, living with Alzheimer’s disease and
caregiving techniques. Outreach to diverse communities includes
the Promotora program focusing on Latino families and individuals
that may be unaware of their services, as well as special programs
and education in the African-American and LGBTQ communities.
Alzheimer’s has become the costliest disease in terms of care in
the United States. In 2018, the 16.2 million family and other unpaid caregivers of people
with Alzheimer’s or other dementias provided an estimated 18.5 billion hours of unpaid
care, with an estimated economic value of $233.9 billion. The Alzheimer’s Association
offers significant assistance to caregivers through the previously mentioned classes,
support groups and more.
As we are living longer and witnessing the rise in cases of Alzheimer’s disease and
related dementia, Alzheimer’s has joined cancer atop a list of top medical concerns
The San Diego/Imperial Chapter holds
fundraising events throughout the
year. In June, “The Longest Day” asks
supporters to create their own “create-
your-own” fundraisers built around their
own hobbies or interests. In the fall you
may participate in the “Walk to End
Alzheimer’s.” And this spring, on March
27, 2020, the Del Mar Country Club will
be home to the chapter’s first annual
“Imagination Ball.” Volunteers for all of
these events are welcome!
If you have any questions about
Alzheimer’s, visit the Association’s
website, www.alz.org/sandiego, call the
24/7 telephone help line (800) 272-3900,
or just stop by weekdays at the
chapter office, 5075 Shoreham Place in
San Diego.
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