According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5 million Americans today are living with Alzheimer’s disease. And the number of Americans diagnosed with Alzheimer’s is projected to grow exponentially in the coming years that by mid-century, someone in the U.S. will develop the disease every 33 seconds.
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What’s more disheartening is the fact that 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s. In the U.S., the disease is the sixth leading cause of death. Today, 1 in every 9 people age 65 and above is living with Alzheimer’s. By 2050, medical experts project that the number of individuals aged 65 and above with the disease will reach 13.8 million. Such gloomy scenario is prompting organizations such as the Neuroscience Clinics of Florida Foundation Inc. (NSCFF) to advance research on the disease. In addition, educating the public about Alzheimer’s is one of the ways NSCFF and other organizations are spreading awareness about the disease.
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One important step toward understanding the disease is identifying its early signs. There are three stages of Alzheimer’s -- mild, moderate, and severe. But despite the different stages, people who are developing Alzheimer’s will experience one or more of the following symptoms:
i.Forgetfulness and memory loss that disrupt daily life
ii.Problems with words or writing
iii.Difficulty completing usual tasks at home or work
iv.Disorientation or confusion with time and dates
v.Mood and personality changes.
These are just some of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. It is important to see a doctor immediately if one of these symptoms is observed.
Patrick Dywer, a financial advisor, supports the Neuroscience Clinics of Florida Foundation Inc. (NSCFF) in its quest to develop treatments for various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. For the latest research news and updates about the organization, follow this Twitter account.