We have such a strong association with Alzheimer’s Disease as a disease of the elderly. This is something we put off thinking about now, and with the humanness we are born with, go even further in our arrogance and think “not me.” But what if it is you? What if that forgetfulness is more than stress, more than fatigue, more than the changes that come with normal aging? What if you begin to not only forget details, but entire events? And what if you are only 48?
It is easy to say that you should walk in someone’s shoes to understand them better but often we do not get that opportunity. Often when someone is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease they have also accumulated numerous other age related maladies and/or the AD has progressed to the point that they can no longer describe the losses because they are no longer aware of the losses.
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a disease that will have an impact on our lives. We are living longer and so are our friends and relatives. 1 in 10 over 65; 1 in 7 over 75; 1 in 2 over 85. These are grim statistics but it is the truth. More than 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease and by 2050 there will be 16 million people diagnosed. 70 percent of those with Alzheimer’s live at home.
For these reasons it is important to take the time to read and listen to the story of this woman and her husband. She is giving the gift of insight to millions who will have this disease or have a loved one with it. A chance to put on her shoes for a minute. For more click here.