Alzheimer’s News:
ALBUQUERQUE — The Alzheimer’s Association, New Mexico Chapter has announced details of its Alzheimer’s Advocacy Event during the 60-day legislative session underway at the State Capitol.
This event will provide a valuable opportunity for all who are, or have been, affected by the disease to discuss, advocate and increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease with state legislators.
“We are looking forward to engaging our legislators on all proposed policy and reforms that would help ease the heavy burden too many New Mexico families are struggling with daily because of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia,” said Tommy Hernandez (Public Policy Director, Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter), who is chief organizer of the event.
“Advocacy is so important to our overall mission.” said Executive Director Tim Sheahan of Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter. “Families facing Alzheimer’s and dementia face unique and often monumental challenges, it’s critical that their needs are addressed.”
The New Mexico Chapter will host legislators, caregivers and other concerned members of the community 10-11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, in the rotunda of the State Capitol Building, aka “The Roundhouse.” The event will feature remarks from distinguished members of the legislature, stakeholder groups and the community.
The Capitol Building, or Roundhouse, is at the corner of Old Santa Fe Trail and Paseo de Peralta at 490 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501. The event is free of charge and members of the public are invited.
RSVP is requested.
For more information, contact Tommy Hernandez at 505.604.4554 or tjhernandez@alz.org.
Alzheimer’s takes a devastating toll – not just on those with the disease, but on entire families. In our own state, 43,000 New Mexicans are living with Alzheimer’s and there are 85,000 unpaid dementia caregivers, many of whom are family members.
“Alzheimer’s is projected to strike our state with a significant increase by 2025, primarily because of our growing population of people reaching 65 years or older,” says Hernandez. “Improving the state’s infrastructure of support, services and programs now is a necessary step to prepare.”
All media outlets in the state are highly encouraged to attend and document this important gathering.
Today, an estimated 6.5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2050, the total number is projected to increase to nearly 13 million by 2050. It is the only leading cause of death without a prevention or cure.
In New Mexico, 43,000 New Mexicans over age 65 are living with Alzheimer’s disease. By 2025, that number is expected to rise to 53,000. This state has 85,000 unpaid dementia caregivers, many of whom are family members, contributing 158 million hours of care valued at $2.6 billion.
The Alzheimer’s Association, NM Chapter is here for you. If you need help, the 24/7 Helpline is available any time, day or night for support or information, call 1.800.272.3900. Visit the chapter website for the latest in free programs.
There are five branch offices in the state: Albuquerque (Main Office), Santa Fe (Northeastern New Mexico), Farmington (Northwestern New Mexico), Roswell (Southeastern New Mexico) and Las Cruces (Southwestern New Mexico). All regional offices and staff may be contacted by calling 1.800.272.3900.
*Source for all statistics: The 2022 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report at www.alz.org/facts.
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Their mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Their vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all other dementia®. Visit alz.org/newmexico or call 800.272.3900.
