Are we ready for the Alzheimer’s crisis?
New treatments have, for the first time, slowed the progression of Alzheimer’s for those in the early stages of the disease. But what good are new treatments if those in our community showing signs cannot get an accurate diagnosis? Our leaders must ensure our public health infrastructure is prepared to handle the increasing number of residents impacted by this disease, so they can receive an early and accurate diagnosis to access these treatments.
I know the value of these treatments combined with early diagnosis. My wife, Gina, was diagnosed in 2016 by specialists at Mayo Clinic and treated immediately. As a result, she is healthy and active today.
Two bills in Congress right now would take action to ensure we have the ability to address the coming Alzheimer’s crisis. The BOLD Reauthorization Act of 2024 would empower our public health departments to increase early detection and diagnosis, helping Floridians reduce their risk for dementia and support the needs of caregivers.
The Accelerating Access to Dementia & Alzheimer’s Provider Training (AADAPT) Act would help primary care providers better diagnose Alzheimer’s and other dementia. It would help to reduce the years it often takes to get a diagnosis and help those impacted access new treatments in the short window they are available.
Congressman Daniel Webster must put Floridians first and join the Florida chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association and leaders across our state in supporting these bills. You know this disease well and you have supported our efforts in the past. Please give us your support now.
Steve Waterhouse of the Village of Pine Ridge serves as chair of the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and North Florida.