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By Amanda Gecewicz Wauconda High School's Future Business Leaders of America Chapter at Walk to End Alzheimer's What started as a personal connection to Alzheimer’s disease turned into a communitywide effort led by students at Wauconda High School. Max Buchanan, a senior at Wauconda High School, helped organize a student-led Walk to End Alzheimer’s event that brought together more than 100 community members and raised more than $2,200 for the Alzheimer’s Association . The effort was led through the school’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter, a student organization focused on leadership and community service. Buchanan worked with a team of students to plan and execute the event, turning that mission into a project with a direct impact on families affected by Alzheimer’s. For Buchanan, the cause is personal. “My family has been involved with the Alzheimer’s Association since 2019, after my grandma was diagnosed with the disease, so this cause has always been very personal to me,” Buchanan said. “We’ve participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s for several years, and I wanted to bring that same sense of support and awareness to our local community.” Max Buchanan (yellow shirt) at Walk to End Alzheimer's The walk was planned over several months, beginning in the summer ahead of the school year. Organizing during that time came with challenges, especially when it came to coordinating with students and advisers. “One of the biggest challenges was that most of the planning happened during the summer when school wasn’t in session,” Buchanan said. “That made it harder to connect with students and advisers and involve as many groups as we wanted.” To overcome that, the FBLA team focused on consistent communication and leaned on community partnerships, including working with the Wauconda Park District to secure a space for the event. By the time the walk arrived, those efforts paid off. More than 30 FBLA student volunteers helped run the event, supporting registration, activity stations and logistics as community members gathered at the school — checking in, taking photos and participating in a shared cause. “The moment that stood out most was seeing people start arriving and realizing how many members of the community actually came out to support the event,” Buchanan said. “Watching families check in, take photos and visit the activity stations made all the months of planning feel worth it.” Wauconda students at Walk to End Alzheimer's The turnout exceeded expectations. The group more than doubled its original fundraising goal, a result Buchanan said reflected the strength of the local community. “It showed how much our community cares about supporting families affected by Alzheimer’s and helping move research forward,” he said. The walk is part of a broader effort by Wauconda’s FBLA chapter to stay engaged with the cause. In addition to the event, students participate in a monthly initiative called Meals for All, where they host a student-led meal service and donate proceeds to the Alzheimer’s Association. Wauconda’s FBLA chapter with check to the Alzheimer's Association from their local Walk For Buchanan, the experience has reinforced both the importance of awareness and the role young people can play in advocacy. “Alzheimer’s is something that affects so many families, but younger generations don’t always realize how common or impactful it is,” he said. “When students get involved, it helps spread awareness and bring new energy to the cause. It also shows that advocacy and community impact aren’t limited by age.” That impact has also shaped his future plans. Buchanan intends to study neurobiology and pursue research in neurodegenerative diseases after graduating. “Organizing the walk made the issue feel even more real to me because I was able to see how many people in our community have been affected,” he said. “Experiences like this remind me that behind every statistic are real families.” He hopes other students see the walk as an example of what is possible. “I would encourage students to get involved however they can, even if it starts with something small,” Buchanan said. “With the right team and support from community partners, an idea can grow into something that makes a real impact.” Visit Alz.org/Illinois for resources, volunteer opportunities and more.

Chicago, Springfield and Peoria, IL  — The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is making history in 2026 by hosting Release the Silence African American Conference  in three Illinois cities for the first time ever — Chicago, Springfield, and Peoria . What began in 2023 on Chicago’s South Side with a modest goal of reaching 50 people became something extraordinary, serving more than 300 individuals and families . Building on that momentum, the conference expanded to Springfield in 2024  and Peoria in 2025 , ultimately reaching a combined 1,300 individuals and families  across the state. Now, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is taking the initiative to the next level. Release the Silence 2026  reflects a continued commitment to empowering and supporting the Black/African American community , which is disproportionately impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. According to the Alzheimer’s Association 2025 Facts and Figures Report , African Americans are about two times more likely  to develop Alzheimer’s and other dementias compared to white individuals. While the reasons for this increased burden are not yet fully understood, the need for education, support, and advocacy is clear. These conferences are designed to help Black/African American individuals and families navigate the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiving with culturally relevant education, trusted community voices, and practical resources . “Release the Silence is more than a conference—it is a movement,”  said Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter. “By bringing this program to three cities in one year, we are expanding access, strengthening community connections, and amplifying conversations that can no longer remain silent.” Conference Topics Include: Advances in Alzheimer’s and dementia treatments Addressing health and financial disparities in the African American community Financial planning and legal considerations Caring for and supporting loved ones living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias Whether you are a current caregiver, preparing to become one, or a healthcare professional serving the community, Release the Silence  offers valuable insights, tools, and connections to support every stage of the caregiving journey. 2026 Conference Dates & Locations (Peoria) Friday, April 18, 2026 | 9:00 a.m.Life Together Center 3625 N. Sheridan Rd. Peoria, IL 61604 Register: AlzIllinois.org/release-the-silence-peoria     (Chicago) Saturday, April 25, 2026UIC Forum (New Location) 1213 S. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60607 Register:   AlzIllinois.org/release-the-silence (Springfield) Saturday, May 2, 2026Union Baptist Church Springfield, IL Register: https://tinyurl.com/4uvdffzu Registration opens: Chicago:  Monday, January 19, 2026 Peoria:  Monday, January 19, 2026 Springfield: Monday, January 19, 2026 All conferences are free to attend Continental breakfast and light lunch will be provided at Chicago and Springfield Peoria will include breakfast only Attendees are encouraged to visit alz.org/illinois  for the latest updates on agendas, speakers, and vendors as planning continues.

THE US POINTER STUDY RESULTS AND BRAIN HEALTH IMPLICATIONS Please join us Wednesday, February 25th, from 10:00- 11:00 AM for a virtual discussion on the US Pointer Study and it’s implications for Brain Health. This two-year clinical trial revealed ways older adults can improve brain function and reduce cognitive decline. Olivia Matongo, Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter will break down these study results and provide insight into ways we can reduce risk factors for cognitive decline. Date: February 25, 2026 • Time: 10:00-11:00 AM  Location: Online via Zoom Register Today:  https://bit.ly/DFSSbrainhealth Olivia Matongo is the Vice President of Programs for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Illinois Chapter where she heads a talented team across eight sites in delivering programs focused on expanding reach of care and access to timely diagnosis, as well as quality and safety of care for 2.2M Illinoisans. Over the course of her career, Olivia has worked for notable organizations such as The National Academies of Science, Engineering, & Medicine; American College of Surgeons, and Villa Healthcare where she brought thought leadership in rolling out new programs and publishing guidelines and documentation to improve safety and quality through a value-based model for care.  For more information or assistance with registration,  call: Victoria Russo at 312-743-3528 or email: victoria.russo@cityofchicago.org

One in nine Americans age 65 and older is living with Alzheimer’s disease—more than 7 million people nationwide, including an estimated 255,600 individuals in Illinois. Beyond the physical and emotional toll, the disease places a significant financial burden on families, often threatening long-term financial stability. January is Financial Wellness Month , and the Alzheimer’s Association is encouraging individuals and families to take proactive steps toward financial planning. Preparing early can help create a sense of security in the event of an unexpected caregiving crisis related to Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. “Six in ten Americans are working while also managing Alzheimer’s caregiving responsibilities,” said Delia Jervier, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. “Many are forced to reduce their work hours, adjust schedules, take unpaid time off, or leave the workforce altogether. The resulting loss of income can have a profound impact on a family’s overall well-being.” According to the 2025 Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures  report: ( https://www.alz.org/getmedia/ef8f48f9-ad36-48ea-87f9-b74034635c1e/alzheimers-facts-and-figures.pdf ) The lifetime cost of care for a person living with dementia averages $392,874. Dementia caregivers face nearly twice the out-of-pocket expenses of non-dementia caregivers ($12,388 compared to $6,667). Nearly half (48%) of caregivers must cut back on basic necessities such as food, transportation, and medical care to afford dementia-related expenses, while many rely on personal savings or retirement funds. Nearly two-thirds of Americans mistakenly believe Medicare covers nursing home care or are unsure whether it does. In Illinois alone, approximately 314,000 people provide unpaid care for a family member or friend living with Alzheimer’s disease. As care needs grow over time, families often face increasing costs for services and support. “Financial literacy is especially important for caregivers,” said Jervier, “It gives them the tools and confidence to manage their own financial health while supporting someone living with Alzheimer’s.” To help families navigate these challenges, the Alzheimer’s Association launched a free online education program, Managing Money: A Caregiver’s Guide to Finances  ( https://training.alz.org/products/4355/managing-money-a-caregivers-guide-to-finances ). The program offers practical guidance, including: Plan early:  Early financial planning benefits both caregivers and individuals living with the disease. Start the conversation:  Involve trusted family members or friends to discuss financial wishes and future plans. Protect against fraud:  People living with dementia are at higher risk for financial exploitation and may struggle with decision-making. Organize finances:  Take inventory of assets and resources, including savings, insurance, retirement benefits, government assistance, and VA benefits. Financial planners or elder law attorneys can help. Create a backup plan:  Designate a trusted backup agent for power of attorney and consider sharing responsibilities among multiple people. For more information and financial planning resources, visit the Alzheimer’s Association’s Plan for Your Financial Future  webpage ( https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/plan-for-your-future/financial_planning ) or go to alz.org .

Many people use the terms dementia  and Alzheimer’s disease  interchangeably—but they are not the same thing. Understanding the difference is an important first step in recognizing symptoms, seeking help, and supporting those affected. Dementia: An Umbrella Term Dementia is a general term  used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning that interferes with daily life. It is not a specific disease, but rather a category of conditions that affect cognitive function. A helpful way to think about it is this: Dementia is like “fruit.” Alzheimer’s is like an “apple.” There are several types of dementia, including: Alzheimer’s disease  (the most common) Vascular dementia , often caused by reduced blood flow to the brain Lewy body dementia , associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain Frontotemporal dementia , which primarily affects behavior and language Each type has different causes, symptoms, and progression patterns. Alzheimer’s Disease: The Most Common Cause of Dementia Alzheimer’s disease is a specific, progressive brain disease  and accounts for 60–80% of all dementia cases . It develops as abnormal protein changes damage and destroy brain cells, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive abilities. Alzheimer’s typically begins with: Memory loss that disrupts daily life Difficulty remembering recently learned information As the disease progresses, individuals may experience: Challenges with problem-solving and decision-making Confusion with time or place Changes in mood, behavior, or personality Difficulty completing familiar daily tasks Over time, Alzheimer’s affects a person’s ability to live independently and requires increasing levels of care and support. The Impact in Illinois Alzheimer’s disease affects families and communities across our state. In Illinois, more than 255,000 people are currently living with Alzheimer’s , and that number is expected to grow as the population ages. Behind each statistic is a person, a caregiver, and a family navigating the realities of this disease. Why Understanding the Difference Matters Knowing the distinction between dementia and Alzheimer’s can: Help individuals and families seek appropriate medical evaluations Improve understanding of symptoms and disease progression Reduce stigma and misinformation Encourage earlier diagnosis and access to care, support, and resources While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and provide valuable time for planning and support. You’re Not Alone If you or someone you love is experiencing memory changes or cognitive challenges, help is available. Education, support groups, care resources, and research advancements continue to make a difference for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Understanding starts with awareness—and together, we can continue working toward a future without Alzheimer’s.

In 2016, Vicky’s father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and died a few years later in 2020, but the truth is, she felt something was wrong even before the diagnosis arrived. There were subtle changes, missed cues, moments of confusion that lingered too long. Her dad was slipping away in pieces, and he was doing it silently. By the time he became a resident in a nursing home, the disease had already taken so much from him and from her. Just one year later, heartbreak struck again. Vicky’s younger sister was diagnosed with early-onset dementia. The word early  felt especially cruel. Dementia wasn’t supposed to arrive this early. It wasn’t supposed to keep knocking on the same family’s door. But it did. Seven members of Vicky’s family have now been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Seven. Each diagnosis layered new grief onto old wounds, turning fear into something constant and something lived with, not escaped. What hurt most in those early days was the loneliness. Vicky wished there had been more advocates in her local community when her family first entered the Alzheimer’s journey with more guidance through the maze of medical decisions, financial strain, caregiving responsibilities, and emotional exhaustion. Instead, she learned as so many caregivers do, by stumbling forward, grieving as she went, and refusing to look away from the suffering. Vicky turned her pain into purpose. Last year alone, she, her family and team contributed $15,000 toward the fight against Alzheimer’s, and over time, they have raised nearly $40,000. But the numbers, while impressive, only tell part of the story. Behind every dollar is a memory, a loss, a refusal to let this disease win without resistance. Her family now shows up in force—33 members strong—at the DuPage Walk to End Alzheimer’s. They walk not just for those they’ve lost, but for those still fighting, still remembering in fragments, still holding on. Vicky proudly serves as a yellow and purple Walk flower holder, a visible symbol of love, loss, and hope. Yellow for caregivers. Purple for those living with the disease. She carries both because her life has been shaped by both. One of Vicky’s most powerful moments comes every year at the Walk, when she looks out and sees a sea of flower holders stretching as far as she can see. Hundreds of stories. Hundreds of losses. Hundreds of people who understand. The sight overwhelms her every time, bringing tears she doesn’t try to hide. In that moment, she knows her family is not alone and neither is she. Her team, Team Tony, is named with love and intention for her dad. They don’t just walk; they speak. They educate. They share the raw, uncomfortable truth about how devastating and complicated the Alzheimer’s journey can be. They talk openly about the confusion, the financial strain, the emotional toll, and the exhaustion of loving someone who is slowly disappearing before their eyes. Vicky and her two sisters are also actively involved in Alzheimer’s research studies and contributed suggestions and information for a roundtable discussion in Channahon, Illinois, one that even includes the city’s mayor. They lend their voices not just as advocates, but as daughters and sisters who have lived this reality firsthand. Their message is simple and urgent.  Vicky Ryan never asked to become an advocate. She became one because love demanded it. Because silence nearly swallowed her father whole. Because her sister’s diagnosis shattered the illusion that this disease only comes later in life. Because too many families are still walking this path alone. Find out more on your local Walk to End Alzheimer’s at www.alz.org/Walk .

The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter, in collaboration with the Illinois Department of Public Health, launched the Illinois Brain Health Project , a groundbreaking public health initiative designed to educate Illinoisans about the importance of brain health. This comprehensive campaign focuses on reducing cognitive decline by addressing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthy lifestyle practices, with a particular emphasis on reaching diverse, underserved, and higher-risk communities.   Many people overlook or neglect their brain health until they experience cognitive decline, not realizing that simple, everyday actions can help keep their brains healthy. This campaign is designed to educate local Illinois communities on the easy, everyday actions that can support brain health—like physical activity, quality sleep, and cognitive activity—that are within everyone's reach, no matter their circumstances. The goal is to make brain health accessible and stress-free, so you can care for your brain without feeling overwhelmed. The campaign website ( www.yourbrainwillthankyou.com ). "We are proud to partner with the Alzheimer's Association of Illinois on this innovative and memorable brain health awareness campaign,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.  “This campaign will promote the documented benefits of staying mentally and physically active and engaged. Dementia can be a devastating diagnosis for individuals and families, but there are steps you can take now to greatly reduce your future risk. Let’s do all we can to improve our brain health now and for our future.  Your brain will thank you." “By focusing on reducing modifiable risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles, this initiative has the potential to improve outcomes for individuals at risk of cognitive decline, particularly in underserved communities,” said Delia Jervier, Regional Vice President and Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter Executive. “The Illinois Brain Health Project represents a significant step forward in creating a healthier future for all Illinoisans.” Key Partners of the Illinois Brain Health Project The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter convened a planning committee of subject matter experts to inform the vision, strategy, and execution of the project. Organizations represented include the following: AARP Illinois, Bright Star Community Outreach, Chicago Department of Family & Support Services, Chicago Urban League, CRIS Healthy Aging, Egyptian Area Agency on Aging, Enlace Chicago, Illinois Department on Aging, Illinois Public Health Association, Latino Alzheimer’s Coalition For Advocacy, Research and Education (LA CARE), The Midwest Roybal Center for Health Promotion and Translation | University of Illinois Chicago, National Association of Hispanic Nurses, Illinois OSF HealthCare, Rush University Medical Center, and SHARE Network. The initiative will rely on partnerships with these organizations to ensure effective and equitable outreach. All materials will be available in Spanish as well. Advancing Brain Health Across Illinois The Illinois Brain Health Project underscores the commitment of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter and the Illinois Department of Public Health to addressing health disparities and supporting the well-being of underserved populations. By leveraging evidence-based strategies and fostering collaboration among health experts and community-based organizations, this initiative aims to create lasting change in brain health education and risk reduction. For more information about the Illinois Brain Health Project, please contact Olivia Matongo at  847.957.1057 x9371or omatongo@alz.org . This project is supported by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $730,000.00, with 28.85 percentage funded by CDC/HHS and 71.15 percentage funded by Illinois Department of Public Health. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by CDC/HHS, or the U.S. Government. About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is a leading voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Through advocacy, education, and community partnerships, the organization works to reduce the impact of Alzheimer’s and related dementias on individuals and families throughout Illinois.

One of Chicago’s most anticipated fundraising events is officially back! Paint the Night Purple (PTNP)  returns on Friday, February 20, 2026 , and early bird tickets are now available for an unforgettable evening in support of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. Hosted by the Illinois Chapter Junior Board , Paint the Night Purple is more than a party — it’s a powerful movement bringing together 500+ young professionals and community leaders  who are united in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease. ✨ What to Expect Set inside the vibrant atmosphere of Venue West , this high-energy night will feature: 🎶 Live music + a DJ 🍸 Open bar 🥂 Passed hors d’oeuvres 🎁 An exciting silent auction 💜 A room filled with purpose, passion, and community Whether you’re dancing the night away or connecting with fellow changemakers, PTNP is a celebration with impact. 🎟️ Ticket & Sponsorship Options Early Bird Tickets:  $125 (prices increase after 2025) VIP Tickets:  $200 Includes early entry at 7:00 PM Family & Corporate Sponsorships: Levels available from $1,000–$25,000 Every ticket and sponsorship directly supports the Alzheimer’s Association’s mission across Illinois. 💜 Why It Matters Your support helps fuel critical research, care, and advocacy , benefiting: 250,600 individuals  living with Alzheimer’s in Illinois 311,000 caregivers  who support them every day Together, we’re creating hope — and moving closer to a world without Alzheimer’s. 📅 Event Details Date:  Friday, February 20, 2026 Time:  8:00–11:00 PM (VIP entry begins at 7:00 PM) Location:  Venue West 221 N Paulina Street, Chicago 🎫 Get Your Tickets Today Spots fill fast — don’t miss your chance to be part of this powerful night.👉 Secure your tickets now:   PTNP26.givesmart.com

Every day, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter shares timely information, helpful resources, and inspiring stories for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, advocates, and supporters across our state. Staying connected with us on social media is one of the easiest ways to stay informed and make an impact. By following our channels, you’ll find: Brain health tips and the latest Alzheimer’s research Caregiver resources, support groups, and education programs Advocacy updates and ways to get involved Community events, fundraising opportunities, and local stories Messages of hope from families and supporters like you We post daily , and every follow, like, and share helps spread awareness, reduce stigma, and connect families to critical support. 👉 Follow, subscribe, like, and share today: Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/AlzIllinois Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/alzillinois/ LinkedIn:   (60) Alzheimer's Association Illinois Chapter: Overview | LinkedIn X (formerly Twitter):   https://x.com/alzIllinois Your engagement helps ensure that important information reaches the people who need it most. Together, we can build a more informed, compassionate Illinois—one post at a time. 💜 Thank you for being part of the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter community.

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before it impacted their lives. They also want treatment, even if it comes with risks, as long as it slows the progression of the disease. These are among the insights uncovered in the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures Report released by the Alzheimer’s Association today.  The 2025 Facts and Figures  report provides an in-depth look at the latest national and state-by-state statistics on Alzheimer’s prevalence, mortality, dementia care workforce, costs of care and impact on caregivers. New disease-related statistics for Illinois revealed the following:  Number of Illinois residents aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s: 250,600 Statewide deaths from Alzheimer’s disease: 4,111 Statewide mortality rate from Alzheimer’s (per 100,000 people): 32.6 Number of Illinois residents serving as unpaid family caregivers: 316,000 Total hours of unpaid care provided: 488 Million Total value of unpaid care: $12.5 Billion  “ This year’s report finds that the impact of Alzheimer’s on Illinois residents and families is significant,” said Delia Jervier, Executive Director, Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter. “Now more than ever, we need to work to advance disease research and treatments that can slow the current trajectory and help all Illinois families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”   The new report shows prevalence, disease-related deaths and cost of caring for those living with Alzheimer’s are rising across the country. Among the findings: 7.2 million people aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Total annual costs of caring for people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias (excluding unpaid care) is projected to be $384 billion in 2025. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide 19.2 billion hours of unpaid care, valued at an additional $413 billion. Deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease more than doubled between 2000 and 2022. An accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment , highlights a national survey of more than 1,700 U.S. adults, aged 45 and older, examining awareness and attitudes of early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, tests used to help diagnose Alzheimer’s and treatments that can slow progression of the disease. Among the findings revealed in the new survey:   Americans want to know early if they have Alzheimer’s disease and want access to testing. Nearly 4 in 5 Americans (79%) would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before having symptoms or before symptoms interfere with daily activities. More than 9 in 10 Americans would definitely or probably want a simple test (e.g. blood-based biomarker test) if it was available. The number one reason for wanting a simple test is to allow for earlier treatment and care.  If diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, most Americans would want medication to slow its progression and would highly value information about the disease and treatment. More than 9 in 10 Americans (92%) would probably or definitely want to take a medication that could slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Nearly three in five Americans (58%) said they would accept a moderate or high level of risk with taking an anti-amyloid medication to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Nearly 1 in 4 Americans (22%) are willing to accept high risk.  Americans’ top concerns about Alzheimer’s testing are insurance coverage, accuracy and cost.  44% worry that insurance won’t cover future care and treatment. Other top concerns include test accuracy, cost, potential to lose confidence in abilities and not being allowed to do certain activities, such as driving.  Americans are optimistic that the next decade will bring new treatments to slow, prevent and even cure Alzheimer’s disease. Four in 5 Americans (81%) believe new treatments to stop the progression of Alzheimer’s will emerge in the next decade, and 66% believe new treatments to prevent Alzheimer’s will be available soon.  “The survey underscores the need for advancing new treatments and making early diagnosis easier and more accessible to anyone concerned about their memory and thinking,” Said Jervier. “We’re encouraged that the survey finds people want to be proactive in addressing cognitive concerns. That’s a real positive because early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s offers the best opportunity for care, management and treatment of the disease.” Full text of the 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures  report, including the accompanying special report, American Perspectives on Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Disease in the Era of Treatment , can be viewed at alz.org/facts . About 2025 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures   The   Alzheimer ’ s Association 2025 Alzheimer ’ s Disease Facts and Figures report is a comprehensive compilation of national statistics and information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. The report conveys the impact of Alzheimer’s on individuals, families, government and the nation’s health care system. Since its 2007 inaugural release, the report has become the preeminent source covering the broad spectrum of Alzheimer’s issues. The Facts and Figures  report is an official publication of the Alzheimer’s Association. The report is published annually in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. About the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia ® . Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900. ​​

Illinois Women Conquer ALZ and the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter are thrilled to extend nominations for the Caregiver Awards  an additional week. There’s still time to honor the incredible caregivers who support people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia across Illinois. This year, we will recognize two exceptional caregivers:✨ One Family & Friend Caregiver ✨ One Paid Professional Caregiver Nominations are now open through December 7, 2025 . Help us celebrate the compassion, dedication, and strength of those who give so much of themselves to care for others. 🏆 Award recipients will be notified in January 2026  and honored at the Power of Purple: A Reason to Hope Luncheon  on March 12, 2026 , at the Fairmont – Millennium Park. 💜 Let’s shine a bright light on these extraordinary individuals.👉 Nominate a caregiver today! Submit your nomination at: ilalzwomen.org/events/caregiver-awards

On Giving Tuesday , millions of people around the world will unite for a global day of generosity — a day dedicated to creating meaningful, positive change. This year, we invite you to be part of that impact by supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and helping fuel critical progress in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Your generosity powers a new era of breakthroughs. From cutting-edge prevention studies to revolutionary early detection through blood-based tests, your support accelerates science that brings us closer to a world without Alzheimer’s. And here in Illinois, your contributions ensure that families across the state continue to receive free, local programs and services when they need them most. 💜 The Walk May Be Over, But Our Mission Continues While Walk to End Alzheimer’s season has wrapped, our work is far from finished. We’re pushing forward to reach our year-end goal by December 31 , and every single dollar truly makes a difference for individuals and families facing Alzheimer’s across Illinois. 🎁 Special Incentive: Warm Up With a Walk Beanie From November 29 through December 14 , when you raise $50 , you’ll receive a cozy Walk to End Alzheimer’s beanie  as a thank-you for making an impact during this season of giving. It’s a perfect way to show your support and stay warm all winter long! 💜 Make Your Impact This Giving Tuesday Join us in keeping the momentum strong and the mission moving forward.👉 Donate or fundraise today:   alzheimers-illinois.org/walk Together, we can bring hope, support, and scientific progress to families across Illinois and move one step closer to ending Alzheimer’s. Let’s make this Giving Tuesday count! 💜