Advocacy

Alzheimer's disease is one of the most critical public health issues in America

The number of Americans living with Alzheimer's is growing — and growing fast. While Alzheimer's places a huge burden on the health care system, with annual costs exceeding a quarter of a trillion dollars, the cost is far more than financial. That is why we unrelentingly advocate for the rights of the Alzheimer's and dementia community, as well as critical research funding. We advocate to change the trajectory of this disease.

More than 120,000 Tennesseans are living with Alzheimer's disease

We know the number of Tennesseans who will be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease is projected to rise by nearly 20 percent over the next five years — a number that will result in a $1.109 billion increase in Medicare costs. We know this disease requires a coordinated, statewide public health response. That's where our Tennessee Advocates come in.

Creating positive change for all Tennesseans impacted by Alzheimer's disease

In 2019, our Advocates fought for the creation of a statewide council that would help shape our state's response to Alzheimer's and dementia. Advocates like Tom Piech met with lawmakers to tell them about his experience caring for his wife as she battled the disease. Laura Musgrave, another Advocate, told legislators about her sister, who lost her fight with Alzheimer's at age 59. Dozens of our volunteers made calls, wrote letters and scheduled meetings in support of the legislation. In April, 2019 Governor Bill Lee signed the bill creating the Alzheimer's and Related Dementias Advisory Council into law.

Become an Advocate

If you're interested in learning more about our advocacy efforts nationally and here in Tennessee, contact our Advocacy Manager, Kathryn Laudin at kalaudin@alz.org.