Statement From New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald On Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month

ALBANY, N.Y. (June 13, 2024) – "As we recognize Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month in June, I encourage New Yorkers to consider making lifestyle changes focused on habits and activities that will improve and protect their overall health as well as the health of their brain, which may reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia.

Alzheimer's is the most common cause of dementia, which can lead to loss of memory and other cognitive abilities that may eventually grow serious enough to interfere with daily living. It is often referred to as 'the long goodbye' because of the lengthy emotional and physical toll it exacts on caregivers and loved ones as the disease slowly steals the individual away.

Across New York, it is estimated that close to 427,000 people are living with Alzheimer's dementia, or roughly 13% of the population of adults aged 65 and older, according to the latest "Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures" report from the Alzheimer's Association.

The greatest risk of developing Alzheimer's is increasing age, but a common misconception is that dementia is a normal part of aging. Our brains change as we age, just like our bodies, and over time, most of us will notice some minor problems remembering certain things. But occasional snags with memory are not the same as disorientation and other increasingly severe symptoms including difficulty with speaking, swallowing and walking that can accompany Alzheimer's disease.

Studies are still ongoing, but research strongly suggests that adopting a lifestyle that focuses on good heart health may prevent the onset of some of the strongest risk factors for dementia, including high blood pressure, lack of exercise, smoking, and overindulging in fatty foods and alcohol. In other words, if it's good for your heart, it's good for your brain.

And there is hope on the horizon. While Alzheimer's cannot be cured, progress is being made every single day on treatments and medical interventions that show promise of easing symptoms and improving quality of life.

You can learn more about Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, as well as find resources to help you and your loved ones, on the Department's Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia website.

The Alzheimer's Association also provides a great deal of information about the disease and ongoing clinical trials and research, including this page focused on healthy habits for your brain.

I hope you will take a few moments to look into ways to take steps today that will not only provide overall health benefits, but may also protect your brain, reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's and dementia, and help preserve cherished memories."