Researching Alzheimer’s disease is incredibly important, considering that tens of millions of people all over the world suffer from this form of dementia that currently has no cure. There are treatments, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments that can help patients manage symptoms, but that care can be expensive and difficult to access for many people. Even the best treatments still can’t stop or reverse disease progression, though, which is why there is so much work being done in pursuit of a cure. If you want to help, keep reading to learn how to donate to Alzheimer’s research.
How can you donate to Alzheimer’s research?
There are a number of ways you can support a cure and assist patients with Alzheimer’s disease. One of the best ways to start is to look for an Alzheimer’s foundation that is doing good work you want to support. You can talk to employees, volunteers, and other donors about what the goals of their organization are and where the money goes. Some organizations even tell you exactly what your money will do. For example, one group suggests that around $250 will fund the entirety of their laboratory operations for an hour. This can help you visualize the impact of your donation.
You can look into organizations that are working toward a cure, as well as other nonprofits that seek to help patients manage the costs of their care. Some foundations even do both. The reality is that forms of dementia like Alzheimer’s can require round-the-clock care, which can be extremely expensive and, in some cases, cost-prohibitive for patients. Finding a cure to eradicate the disease and providing material support for those who are currently experiencing it are both important goals that should be a priority for anyone who wants to help fund projects for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
There are a lot of charities out there, and it can be hard to know which ones are most deserving of your support. It’s a good idea to look for four-star charities, which is the highest rating provided by Charity Navigator. These ratings are based on a review of the organization’s fiscal management, accountability, and transparency. Few Alzheimer’s charities have received this award consistently, so you may want to start by focusing on those organizations that have.
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to atrophy, which in turn causes cells to die. It’s the most common form of dementia, which is generally defined by an ongoing decline in thinking, cognitive, and social skills that eventually restrict or prevent a person from functioning independently. Estimates suggest that over 5.8 million people currently live with Alzheimer’s in the United States. Experts believe that of the 50 to 60 million people experiencing dementia worldwide, between 60 and 70 percent have Alzheimer’s disease.
As of right now, there is no cure available. Treatment can’t stop or reverse the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s once someone is experiencing them. There are some medicines available that can ease symptoms or slow progression in some people, so you should talk to a health care provider if you want more information on how these may help you or a loved one manage the disease. Age, medical history, and the severity of dementia will be the main factors considered when deciding on the best course of treatment.
When you provide a donation to a quality Alzheimer’s charity, you can help fund research, early detection, and support services for patients suffering from the disease. The impact of Alzheimer’s disease on a family can be serious and create a precarious fiscal situation for which many are unprepared. Giving those with Alzheimer’s access to better treatment and, eventually, curing this disease should be priorities for all of us. Your financial support can go a long way toward building a future where no one has to suffer from the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
