This resolution supports Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month by urging the public to learn about, advocate for research on, and support those affected by Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Nanette Barragán
Representative
CA-44
This resolution supports the goals of Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month by recognizing the significant national impact of Alzheimer's disease on health, finances, and caregivers. It highlights the urgent need to address the growing crisis, including disparities in risk and diagnosis among different populations. The resolution encourages the public to get informed, advocate for increased research and support services, and offer assistance to those affected by the disease.
Congress Backs Alzheimer's Awareness Month, Highlights $384 Billion Cost and Caregiver Stress
This resolution is Congress’s way of officially recognizing and supporting the goals of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, which takes place in June. Think of it as a formal spotlight on a massive public health crisis that often gets overlooked until it hits close to home.
The Alarming Numbers Behind the Crisis
The core of this resolution isn't just symbolic; it lays out some seriously tough statistics to show why this awareness push is crucial. Alzheimer’s is currently the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S., and the only top-ten killer we can’t prevent or cure. Right now, about 7 million Americans are living with it, but that number is projected to hit 13 million by 2050. If you’re in the 25–45 age bracket, this is the future of healthcare and caregiving you’ll be dealing with.
The financial and human cost is staggering. The resolution notes that direct costs to society could reach $384 billion by 2025. But the real gut-punch comes from the caregiving stats: over 11 million Americans are providing unpaid care. Nearly 70% of these family caregivers report high emotional stress, and almost 40% show signs of depression. If you’ve ever tried to juggle a full-time job, kids, and managing a parent’s complex medical needs, you know this stress is real—and the resolution puts a spotlight on the people who are essentially holding the system together.
Why This Isn't Just an "Old People" Problem
The resolution also zeroes in on critical health disparities. It points out that older Black Americans face nearly double the risk of getting Alzheimer’s, and older Latinos face 1.5 times the risk. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding dementia often prevents people, especially those in underserved communities, from seeking diagnosis and support early on. This isn't just about awareness; it's about making sure research, funding, and support services reach everyone who needs them, not just those with easy access to specialized care.
What Congress Wants You to Do
Since this is a resolution, it doesn't change any laws or appropriate any money directly. Instead, it’s a public call to action, encouraging everyone to get involved. Specifically, the House of Representatives is asking people to do three things: Get Informed about the disease, Speak Up to advocate for more research and better support services, and Offer Help to those living with Alzheimer’s and their families. For the average person, this translates to paying attention to local resources, considering volunteering time or resources, or simply having an honest conversation with family members about brain health and planning for the future. It’s a symbolic nod that validates the struggle of millions of caregivers and patients, pushing the issue higher on the national priority list.