Alzheimer's, perhaps more than any other disease, imposes a difficult and sometimes painful burden on the primary caregiver. Imagine what's it's like when your spouse of many, many years suddenly has no idea who you are ... looks at you as if you were a complete stranger.
Here's some stats we were given: at age 65, one in eight Americans will have Alzheimer's disease. At age 80, it's one out of two. Very scary odds.
Here's a recent video from CBS News on the effects of Alzheimer's on caregivers.
You can see why victims and caregivers benefit from the programs of the Alzheimer's Association -- things like the 24/7 toll-free help line, care consultations, support groups-- much of which is made possible by funding from the United Way. Here's a link to their site, actually straight to the page showing the 10 Warning signs of Alzheimer's, something those of us who are caring for aging parents should be aware of.
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