Campaign aims to educate public about Alzheimer’s disease
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) and the Alzheimer’s Association of New Mexico have launched a joint campaign to promote early detection and connect families to resources as an estimated 46,000 New Mexicans live with Alzheimer’s disease—many undiagnosed.
The “Take Action. Talk.” campaign is the first of its kind in the nation, and will feature billboards, digital ads, and online content to educate the public on Alzheimer’s warning signs, treatments, and caregiver support services.
“Alzheimer’s is a major public health issue that often goes unrecognized until it has progressed to an advanced stage,” said Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary. “By raising awareness of the warning signs and encouraging earlier diagnosis, it increases the treatment options and can help families manage the high costs of care.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer’s is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. More than seven million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and over 11 million family members provide unpaid care for loved ones with the condition. In New Mexico alone, an estimated 67,000 family members contributed over 118 million hours of unpaid care within the last year.
While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, two medications have recently been approved by the Food and Drug Association. These medications have shown effectiveness in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease in its earliest stages, making a diagnosis that much more important.
“Research has shown that an estimated 45% of all cases of Alzheimer’s can be affected – whether delayed or prevented – through lifestyle factors including diet, exercise, socialization, use of hearing aids, vaccinations for common diseases and other means,” said Donald Smithburg, Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association of New Mexico. “By reaching families earlier, we can help them seek timely treatment and better navigate this devastating disease with much-needed support.”
To see the campaign or learn more about the programs and services offered, visit alz.org/talknm or call the Association’s free 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900. For additional resources regarding aging services in New Mexico for Alzheimer’s and beyond, visit aging.nm.gov or call the Aging & Disability Resource Center at 800-432-2080.