Over 122,000 Missourians battling Alzheimer’s Disease and that number continues to grow
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
According to the latest data from the Alzheimer's Association, more than 122,000 Missourians 65 years and older are battling Alzheimer's Disease. Across the country, nearly 7 million people are living with the disease. Almost two-thirds of those affected are women.
"The mission of the Alzheimer's Association is to raise funds and awareness for those affected by Alzheimer's and other dementias as well as their caregivers," said Laurie Williams, a senior fundraising manager for the association who is in charge of coordinating the Jefferson City and Columbia Walks to End Alzheimer's.
The Alzheimer's Association has a free 24/7 hotline (1-800-272-3900) which offers resources, support, assistance and information for anyone affected by Alzheimer's including patients, caregivers and family members.
The Alzheimer's Association estimates there are 223,000 caregivers across the Show-Me State. These include paid and unpaid caregivers such as family and friends. The association estimates the cost of unpaid care in the state is nearly $6.5 million.
Williams said it's important to hold the hundreds of walks across the country each year to show awareness and support.
"These events aren't just about fundraising," Williams said. "[It's] making people feel that we care about them and understand that their community supports them as well."
Williams expects about 500 people to show up and support the Jefferson City Walk to End Alzheimer's this year. The walk aims to raise $133,000 this year. Last year, the walk raised over $104,000.
Join ABC 17 in the fight against Alzheimer's and support the Jefferson City Walk to End Alzheimer's on Sunday at the Capital Region MU Health Care Amphitheater.
