...While there is much we don’t yet know about Alzheimer’s disease, tremendous progress has been made since 1983. The Alzheimer's Association uses National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness month to raise awareness of Alzheimer's disease and to shed light on the importance of finding breakthroughs in diagnosis, prevention, treatments and, eventually, a cure.

The greatest risk factor for Alzheimer's disease is age. Scientists are studying how other factors such as family history, nutrition, environment, and education, also affect an individual's risk for Alzheimer's disease. The National Institutes of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs continue to conduct research to better prevent, detect, and treat Alzheimer's disease and provide information and support to caretakers and families.

President Ronald Reagan designated November as National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month in 1983. At the time, fewer than 2 million Americans had Alzheimer’s; today, the number of people with the disease has soared to more than 5 million. By 2050, 11 to 16 million people will likely have Alzheimer’s.

Later diagnosed with Alzheimer’s himself, President Reagan died in 2003.

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month is an opportunity to honor and support those living with Alzheimer's disease. During this month, we also seek to express our gratitude to the family members and caretakers who love and comfort those afflicted, and we renew our commitment to finding a cure to this devastating disease.

During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we recognize the millions of Americans affected by this tragic disease and honor those who have lost their lives to Alzheimer's. Americans are grateful for the resolve and dedication of medical professionals, scientific researchers, family members, and caregivers who give their time and talents and help provide hope to many.