ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder resulting in a dementia evidenced by a progressive loss of memory and intellectual function, as well as changes in personality and behavior; and
WHEREAS, more than 35 million people worldwide are expected to have some form of dementia in 2010 and that number is expected to double every 20 years; and
WHEREAS, while Alzheimer's disease is generally associated with memory loss, its progression eventually leads to difficulties with basic physical functions such as mobility or swallowing, with death generally occurring between four and six years after it is diagnosed; and
WHEREAS, Alzheimer’s is the 7th leading cause of death in the United States and the 5th leading cause of death of individuals age 65 and older; and
WHEREAS, death rates associated with diseases such as breast and prostate cancer and stroke decreased from 2000 to 2006, deaths caused by Alzheimer's disease increased by more than 47%; and
WHEREAS almost 10 million people in the United States cared for family members with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia, providing 8.5 billion hours of unpaid care valued at approximately $94 billion, and
WHEREAS, caregivers are often forced to reduce their work hours or quit their jobs altogether, suffering a loss in earnings during a period when out-of-pocket expenses associated with their care-giving duties are estimated to be more than $200 monthly; and
WHEREAS, there is currently no cure for Alzheimer's disease, nor is there any treatment available to impede or halt the deterioration of the brain; and
WHEREAS, appropriate use of treatment options, effective integration of coexisting conditions into the treatment plan, counseling and other support services can improve the quality of life for patients and their caregivers; and
WHEREAS, Alzheimer's disease takes a toll not only on those who are afflicted with it, but also on those who care for them and it is vital that researchers continue to seek a cure;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DAVE FREUDENTHAL, Governor of the State of Wyoming, do hereby proclaim November 2009 to be
“ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH”
in Wyoming.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Executive Seal of the Governor of Wyoming to be affixed 28th day of October, 2009.