One in 10 American Families Affected by Alzheimer's

Alzheimer's Association
Sunday, 1 August 1993

One in 10 American families reports they have a relative with Alzheimer's disease, and one in three adults says they know someone with the degenerative brain disorder, according to a survey conducted by The Gallup Organization for the Alzheimer's Association.

The findings suggest the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is widespread in every community and that the number of diagnosed cases is increasing. Currently, the National Institute on Aging estimates four million Americans are afflicted with the disease.

"The results of this survey tell us that this illness is everywhere, even though its actual prevalence in this country has been difficult to determine," said Edward Truschke, Association president. "It strikes parents, spouses, aunts, uncles and friends."

In the Gallup study, 41 percent of those who reported family members with Alzheimer's were young adults, ages 18 to 34. "This is no longer an 'old age' problem," Truschke said. "It's affecting Americans in the prime of their lives, whether they have the disease or take care of someone who does."

Alzheimer's disease robs its victims of their memory and cognitive abilities. As the disease progresses, the individual declines, requiring 24-hour care. It is the fourth leading cause of death in adults after heart disease, cancer and stroke. The emotional, physical and financial toll of the disease, which is not covered by most private insurance or Medicare, can devastate families. The cost of care for an Alzheimer patient is approximately $50,000 annually.

The Alzheimer's Association recommends examination by a physician for anyone concerned about possible Alzheimer's disease. "As Americans become more aware of this widespread disorder, it's important that they don't overlook other reversible or curable forms of dementia that are different from Alzheimer's disease," said Truschke.

The causes of Alzheimer's disease are still unknown, and there is no prevention or cure. However, the Association offers education and support programs to provide quality care for patients and to ease the burden on families.

The telephone survey of 1,015 adults was part of a larger study conducted by Gallup for the Association during the past year. It has a margin of error of ± 3 percent.

The Alzheimer's Association is the largest national voluntary health organization dedicated to research for the causes, treatments, prevention and cure of Alzheimer's disease and to providing education and support services to the four million Americans with the disease, their families and caregivers. You can reach the Alzheimer's Association at (800) 272-3900.

For more information, or to contact Alzheimer's Association, see their website at: www.alz.org