The Alzheimer's Impact on the Mind

A healthy human brain contains tens of billions of vital neurons. Their function and survival is dependent on the connection with other neurons. Alzheimer’s disease affects these connections. Once the connection is lost, communication between neurons is no longer possible, oxygen and glucose can no longer reach the neuron and the neuron is unable to maintain or repair itself. In Alzheimer’s patients, neurons involved in memory are typically lost first. Eventually, large numbers of neurons are lost, the brain shrinks, and Alzheimer’s essentially takes our mind from us.

Why Alzheimer's?

A healthy mind allows us to interact with our friends, show affection for our family, participate in social events, set and achieve goals, explore, invent, and create memories of a lifetime. Alzheimer's threatens to take all of this from us. Our elders are at the greatest risk of developing this devastating disease. It's our turn to look out for them, each other, and ourselves. While the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease continues to rise, a healthy mind cannot be taken for granted. 

Our team have their own personal reasons for supporting the fight against Alzheimer's. Millions are affected by this tragic disease but we believe there are compelling reasons for supporting Alzheimer's BEFORE it has to affect you directly. Our goal is to STOP the increasing numbers that have to face this incurable disease. 

The Devastation of Alzheimer's

There is currently no way to cure Alzheimer’s. Although it is thought to stem from a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors, we still do do know enough about what causes Alzheimer's.

  • Alzheimer’s Disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States*

  • Between the year 2000 and 2013, deaths from Alzheimer’s increased 71 percent*

  • In addition to the emotional toll, Alzheimer’s also takes a financial toll. In 2015, Alzheimer’s cost Americans $226 Billion*

  • 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s*

  • It is estimated that by the year 2050, 16 million people will have the disease*

  • Another American is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s every 67 seconds*

*Adapted from the Alzheimer's Association Facts and Figures. For more information, visit www.alz.org.

6 Pillars of Prevention

A growing body of research suggests that while some risk factors are out of our control, there are things we can do to help us maintain a healthy brain. HelpGuide, a non-profit guide for mental health and well-being suggests the following 6 lifestyle choices to help prevent the devastation of Alzheimer's disease:

  1. Regular exercise

  2. Healthy diet

  3. Mental stimulation

  4. Quality sleep

  5. Stress management

  6. An active social life