Alzheimer's Study Group Is Keeping Its Word

Last month, I told you that I'd be keeping tabs on the Alzheimer's Study Group, a task force of national leaders who are creating a strategic plan to overcome the mounting Alzheimer's crisis. I have good news. Last week, members of the task force -- including retired Justice Sandra Day O'Connor and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich -- urged lawmakers to start thinking about increasing funding for Alzheimer's research and services, given that up to 16 million people are predicted to have Alzheimer's disease by the year 2050.

I first told you about the Alzheimer's Study Group in a December blog. I was hopeful, but I wanted to see real evidence that the group was working toward concrete solutions and taking assertive action to address the fact that Alzheimer's funding has been stagnant for the last five years.

O'Connor has special expertise with the disease -- she had to retire early from the Supreme Court because of her husband's advancing Alzheimer's. Gingrich also seemed to grasp the gravity of the situation, as he told Congress, "You will never meet an Alzheimer's survivor -- there are none."

Keep up the good work, Alzheimer's Study Group. We need you.

Photo of former U.S. Senator Bob Kerrey and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich © Alzheimer's Study Group