Doing More to Fight Dementia Advocacy

Let' s Do More to Fight Dementia

Start with yourself

Istock Brain Aging and Dementia Do you ever forget the name of an actor or a song or someone you knew in school or the PIN for your ATM card? If you're like a growing number of people, you might start to worry that something is wrong with your brain. But in most cases, you needn't worry. We all forget things on occasion. It's usually normal and no cause for alarm. Still, the growing anxiety over brain health reflects an ominous trend: The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias is increasing sharply. And that trend could take a devastating toll on individuals, and the entire health care system. Costs for treating dementia are rising astronomically. One study found that by 2050, $1 out of every $3 spent by Medicare will go to dementia, and overall costs will exceed $1 trillion.

More Plain English

We cannot afford to stay on this course. It's time for society to recognize the magnitude of this problem and respond much more aggressively. While the ultimate goal is finding a , we need ways to slow the progress of dementia after it has begun. Also, we can do much more to improve care for people living with dementia. need support to help their loved ones live comfortably at home for as long as possible. More specialized training for health aides can improve care and lower costs. Although we don't know how to prevent , there is some evidence that people can reduce their risk of cognitive impairments by adopting certain lifelong habits that promote good health. The initiative recommends that people get regular exercise, eat right, reduce stress, stay socially engaged and continue to learn throughout their lives. I believe we all should support the development of a cure for dementia. But in the meantime, while we await that much-needed breakthrough, I hope you will join me in the challenge to practice good habits for your every day. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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