Polis Joins Fort Collins Alzheimer's Association for Coffee and Conversation

Press Release

Today, Congressman Jared Polis (D-CO) met with the Fort Collins chapter of the Alzheimer's Association to discuss issues affecting Alzheimer's patients, their caregivers, family members, and the medical community supporting them.

The dozen Coloradans in attendance spoke of the need to pass H.R. 1507, The HOPE for Alzheimer's Act, which would help combat Alzheimer's and support those suffering or caring for a family member with this illness by helping doctors detect Alzheimer's disease in their patients earlier; ensuring patients and families are better equipped with knowledge of treatment options; and supporting current programs.

"Alzheimer's affects one out of nine seniors today," said Congressman Polis. "Too many Coloradans who are suffering with this debilitating illness are simply not getting diagnosed or are unaware of the treatment available to them. I applaud the Fort Collins Alzheimer's Association for raising awareness of this critical issue."

Today there are over 5.4 million Americans living with Alzheimer's Disease in the U.S., and it costs approximately $200 billion to care for them. By 2050, it is estimated there will be 16 million Americans living with Alzheimer's Disease at a cost of $1.1 trillion. Currently, many patients with Alzheimer's warning signs do no receive proper testing. One recent study indicated that only 19 percent of people over age 65 with dementia had a diagnosis recorded in their medical record

"I stand with the 20 million Americans who are impacted each day by Alzheimer's disease. It is both heartbreaking and deadly. That is why it is so important we support critical health research that can lead to a cure," Congressman Polis told the attendees.

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