The Evolution of Alzheimer’s Diagnosis and Treatment | OAS Episode 260

Alzheimer’s disease affects a significant number of Americans over 65—more than 7 million—and is the sixth leading cause of death in that age group. It’s expected that more than 13 million people will be diagnosed by 2060. Beyond Alzheimer's, roughly 10% of U.S. adults over 65 have dementia.  On this podcast we talked with Dr. Ronald Petersen, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic and an expert in Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive disorders, and Jennifer Rosen, vice president for state affairs at the Alzheimer’s Association. Joining the podcast to offer the legislative perspective were Senator Laura Murphy of Illinois, a Democrat, and Senator T.J. Shope of Arizona, a Republican.  Dr Petersen explained the remarkable progress that has been made in recent years in the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s and the importance of early intervention. Rosen outlined the enormous financial impact of the disease on society, and the role state legislatures can play in supporting early detection and treatment.  Senators Shope and Murphy each laid out the legislation enacted in their states and how that legislation will aid both people with the disease and their families.  Resources • Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/department...) , Mayo Clinic • Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/) • Comprehensive Policy Approaches to Support the Aging Population (https://www.ncsl.org/health/comprehen...) , NCSL • State Policy Approaches to Improving Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care (https://www.ncsl.org/health/state-pol...) , NCSL • State Strategies to Reduce Costs and Provide Quality Care for Older Adults and People with Disabilities (https://videos.ncsl.org/state-strateg...) , NCSL