Today in Washington, an unprecedented number of Alzheimer's advocates laced up their shoes and took the Hill by storm to shed light on the need for coordinated action to combat Alzheimer's disease. An estimated 5.4 million older Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease, including at least 800,000 who live alone. Without action to change the trajectory of the disease, by 2050, as many as 16 million Americans will have Alzheimer's disease. This year, the cost of caring for people with Alzheimer's and other dementias is estimated to total $200 billion. By mid-century, this number is projected to increase to over $1.1 trillion per year.

As these vital discussions continue on the Hill, I want to take an opportunity to highlight some of the comments from these dedicated advocates:

The Alzheimer's Association has been one of the groups taking the lead in educating the public, caregivers and providers about Alzheimer's disease. We all have a stake and definite responsibility in ensuring quality care and treatment for those with Alzheimer's and helping to relieve the burdens of families and caregivers.