THE FACTS

Most Americans are somewhat familiar with the concept of an aging brain and memory loss and those of us with family members or friends suffering from Alzheimer’s disease (AD) or a related disease know first hand, the crippling effects of this disease. As we go on with our daily schedules and plans for the future, someone is experiencing signs of memory impairment. With an estimated 5 million people in the United States diagnosed with AD or a related disease (Alzheimer’s Association, 2005), it is certain that this disease will touch everyone’s life in some capacity.

A Gallup poll commissioned by the Alzheimer’s Association found that 1 in 10 Americans had a family member with AD and 1 in 3 knew someone with AD. The number of Alzheimer’s cases has doubled since 1980 and according to the Alzheimer’s Association, will continue to grow and by the year of 2050, individuals with AD could range from 11.3 to 16 million.

This is a crucial time for the field of aging, especially in relationship to memory impairment, due to the increasing number of seniors. According to the U. S. Census Bureau, the oldest of the baby boomers (i.e. generations born between 1946 and 1964) are turning 60 years old this year. This equates to roughly 7,918 people turning 60 each day in 2006 and 330 every hour, according to projections from the U.S. Census Bureau.

At Mel’s Memory Care, Inc. our message is simple. Learn the facts, educate yourself, and prepare for the future because all too often the warning signs are there and early detection of memory impairment could make all the difference in the treatment and management of the disease and quality of life and care for individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s or a related dementia. Although there is no cure or a single test to identify AD, local diagnostic centers can provide comprehensive medical, neurological and psychological evaluations to determine the possible causes of an individual’s memory impairment and the best course of treatment for disease management (see diagnostic center link).

This website includes information about Mel’s Memory Care, Inc., a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) and Support Services Center and links to various agencies and organizations that can provide support, resources, and referrals through an often difficult journey. Remember, that as our population ages and memories begin to fade, it is our ethical, civic and reasonable duty to provide care and support for our elderly.

Celebrating the lives of seniors,

Bryan F. Gaines, MSW
Chief Executive Officer
Mel’s Memory Care, Inc.