Letter to the editor: Continue the fight for Alzheimer’s funding and research

My sister was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in her late 40s. At 55, no longer able to provide round-the-clock support, we placed her in a care facility, where, on her good days, she feels one step closer to death; she is only 56. There are few affordable facilities that cater to a younger generation with this debilitating disease, and at the time of her diagnosis, there were even fewer studies and no affordable medication to delay the progression.

Over 282,000 Pennsylvanians are living with Alzheimer’s disease. In 2023, Congress passed the National Alzheimer’s Project Act and Alzheimer’s Accountability Act, which funds research, clinical and long-term care, and public awareness; however, it is set to expire in 2025.

The bottom line is clear: Support for caregivers and patients, early diagnosis and medication for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s are on the horizon, but funding is needed to keep science and families moving forward.

In 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Leqembi, and researchers agree that this treatment not only slows the progression of the disease but contributes to a better quality of life for patients and their families. However, the cost of the drug is more than most would be able to afford, and it’s currently not covered by Medicare.

As an advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association, I’m asking constituents to encourage Sens. Bob Casey and John Fetterman to support the NAPA Reauthorization Act and The Alzheimer’s Accountability Act.

Lisa Raymond

Mt. Lebanon