Addressing the Alzheimer's epidemic

I am optimistic about the news released by the government calling for a national unified movement to address the Alzheimer's disease epidemic and prevent Alzheimer's by 2025.

Today, there are nearly 15 million friends and family providing care for a loved one with Alzheimer's and dementia, including more than 300,000 in Missouri and 579,000 in Illinois. By 2050 as many as 16 million Americans will have this disease that slowly steals memories, independence, autonomy and so much more. These families cannot wait any longer. It's time for a national strategic plan for Alzheimer's disease that is urgent, achievable and accountable to change the trajectory of this disease.

I was fortunate to attend Alzheimer's Association Input Sessions in Washington, D.C., and St. Louis and was moved by the heroic dedication of families and the stories they shared about the devastating impact of this disease. One after another, the stories about the need for more support, education and research kept coming. I encourage others who are concerned about Alzheimer's to visit www.alz.org/stl by Feb. 8 to provide input to the Advisory Council on Alzheimer's research, care and support -- input that will serve as the foundation and framework for the development of a Alzheimer's national plan.

I know firsthand the impact of this devastating disease, as my own family has recently lost a wife, mother and grandmother. I hope this plan provides hope to the other families who are battling this epidemic. Hope that there is an end in sight. When this plan accomplishes these ambitious goals, it will truly reclaim the future for not only my children and grandchildren but for all the generations to come.

Sandy Jaffe, of Chesterfield, Mo., is the chair of the public policy committee for the Alzheimer's Association St. Louis chapter.