For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 31, 2002
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Alzheimer's Disease robs its victims of their independence and
identity and greatly affects the lives of their loved ones. This
disease and other forms of dementia afflict approximately 50 percent of
Americans age 85 and older. Due to the rapid growth of our elderly
population, experts expect that the number of individuals who will
develop this debilitating illness will dramatically increase. As we
observe National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we rededicate
ourselves to fighting this devastating affliction and to supporting
Alzheimer's patients, their families, and their caregivers.
Alzheimer's Disease harms its victims by altering the brain's
chemistry and disrupting signals to the brain by attacking cells,
nerves, and transmitters. Those who develop Alzheimer's Disease may
experience memory lapses, confusion, or mood swings. They can also
become withdrawn and depressed due to lost confidence, and they have
significant problems communicating. These symptoms usually worsen over
time and, in most cases, patients eventually need help with all of
their daily activities.
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and in the
private sector are working to understand how Alzheimer's develops. We
hope that their advances will lead to new methods for early diagnosis,
new medications that will aid Alzheimer's patients in all stages of the
disease, and ultimately a cure for this debilitating illness. Recent
studies suggest that commonly used substances, including certain
vitamins and anti-inflammatory drugs, may help prevent Alzheimer's
Disease. In addition, we are working to increase understanding of the
genetic and nongenetic risk factors that may influence the development
of this disease.
As we continue to pursue better prevention and treatment regimes,
we remain committed to caring for those now afflicted with Alzheimer's
disease. Alzheimer's patients generally live for an average of 8 to 10
years after they are diagnosed. As the disease progresses, patients
require increased support from families and caregivers.
Scientists at the NIH and the Department of Veterans Affairs are
continuing their research to help improve patient care and ease the
burdens of caregivers at home and in nursing facilities. The
Administration on Aging is working to develop best practices for
serving persons with Alzheimer's disease and assisting States as they
attempt to improve their responsiveness and the accessibility of home
and community-based long-term care services and other support
resources. My Administration is increasing access to available
information, education, and referrals about diagnostic and treatment
services for those afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease.
During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, I commend the
members of our research community for their commitment to improving
diagnosis and treatment for Alzheimer's Disease; and I encourage those
suffering from or at risk for Alzheimer's to participate in clinical
treatment studies and
therapy trials. These studies and trials have been and continue to
be an important part of our progress against this disease. I also
commend the families and caregivers of individuals suffering from
Alzheimer's disease who provide the care and support to their loved
ones and carry the daily burden of this tragic disease.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 as
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the people
of the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs
and activities.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first
day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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