Alzheimer's Association

Overview

The Alzheimer's Association is a nonprofit voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer's disease care, support, and research. Originally known as the Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders Association, it is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's research globally. The organization's mission is to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia by accelerating research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and enhancing quality care and support.

History

The Alzheimer's Association was founded in 1980 by Jerome H. Stone, following a period where his wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. The organization emerged from the efforts of several independent support groups aiming to form a national entity to address the lack of information and care for Alzheimer's. The National Institutes of Health invested $13 million in Alzheimer's research in the same year of its founding.

Programs and Services

The organization provides a wide range of programs and services, including:

• Care and Support: Offers resources and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's, available both nationally and locally.
• Research: Committed to advancing global research toward treatments, prevention methods, and ultimately, a cure. The Association invests heavily in over 1,150 active research projects worldwide.
• Education: Provides educational programs for the public, clinicians, and healthcare professionals, focusing on topics like diagnosis, symptoms, and caregiving. It also publishes scientific journals and hosts conferences.
• Advocacy: Acts as a leading voice for Alzheimer's disease advocacy, promoting policies that address Alzheimer's at both the state and federal levels.

Events and Initiatives

• Walk to End Alzheimer's: An annual event held in over 600 communities to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's care and research.
• The Longest Day: A fundraising event where participants choose activities to support Alzheimer's research and care initiatives.
• Ride to End Alzheimer's: A cycling event aimed at raising funds and awareness about Alzheimer's.

Impact

The Alzheimer's Association has been recognized as a top nonprofit organization, impacting millions of lives worldwide through its comprehensive approach to addressing Alzheimer's disease.