Alzheimer's awareness

To the editor:

There are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s , including 8,000 here in Alaska. More than 16 million Americans provide unpaid care for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, including 33,000 here in Alaska. I was one of those Americans.

For the individual living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers, care planning is essential to learning about medical and non-medical treatments, clinical trials, and support services available in their community. Accessing these services results in a higher quality of life. As someone who cared for someone with dementia, I understand the enormous burden dementia has on the families and the economy. For someone who flew to another state to give respite care, not only was it a financial cost for myself, the emotional toll is devastating to watch.

Thankfully as of January 2017, Medicare covers critical care planning services. However, not enough patients and providers are aware of this resource. That is why in April, myself along with 1300 other advocates from across the country went to D.C. and asked Congress to cosponsor the Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act (S. 880/H.R 1873).

The Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act would help educate clinicians on Alzheimer’s and dementia care planning services through Medicare. Endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association and it’s advocacy arm, the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement, the Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act will give them the knowledge and tools to better help their patient and families living with dementia after diagnosis. I wish we had the resources back when my mom was sick, that passing this bill, would bring the families of today.

Please join me in asking Senators Murkowski and Sullivan and Representative Young to support the Improving HOPE for Alzheimer’s Act. To learn more about this devastating disease and how you can join the fight to end Alzheimer’s, visit alzimpact.org.

Together we can be part of the 1st survivor.

Cindy Harris

Alzheimer’s Association

Alaska Ambassador