Alzheimer's Association

Alzheimer's Association. It is a leading voluntary health organization dedicated to accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support for all individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. Founded in 1980, it has grown into a nationwide network with a significant international presence, aiming for a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. The organization funds critical scientific investigations, provides extensive care and support resources, and advocates for public policies that address the escalating crisis posed by these neurodegenerative conditions.

History and mission

The organization was incorporated in 1980 by a coalition of family caregivers, with Jerome H. Stone playing a pivotal founding role after his wife's diagnosis. Its formation responded to a profound lack of information and support for families facing Alzheimer's disease, which was then poorly understood by the general public and the broader medical community. The central mission, to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research and to provide enhanced care and support, was established during these early years in Chicago, Illinois. Key early milestones included establishing a national presence and developing the first professional education programs for healthcare professionals across the United States.

Programs and services

A core function involves delivering direct support through programs like the 24/7 Helpline, which offers confidential guidance and crisis assistance. The organization facilitates a network of local support groups and provides care consultation services to help families navigate complex care decisions and legal planning. Major public awareness campaigns include The Longest Day and the Walk to End Alzheimer's, which engage communities in fundraising and education. It also offers extensive online resources through platforms like ALZ.org and ALZConnected, a dedicated online community for caregivers and individuals living with dementia.

Research funding and initiatives

It is the world's largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer's disease research, having invested over $310 million in more than 950 active projects across 48 countries as of 2022. The research program encompasses grants for investigators at all career stages, from postdoctoral fellows to senior scientists at institutions like the Mayo Clinic and Massachusetts General Hospital. Key initiatives include the Part the Cloud grant program, focused on translating discoveries into therapies, and the International Research Grant Program. The organization also manages the Alzheimer's Association TrialMatch service, a free clinical studies matching tool that connects volunteers with researchers conducting trials for National Institutes of Health-sponsored studies.

Public policy and advocacy

The advocacy arm works to influence federal and state legislation to increase research funding and improve care standards. A primary legislative focus has been securing increased annual appropriations for the National Institutes of Health and specifically the National Institute on Aging. Landmark advocacy successes include the passage of the National Alzheimer's Project Act during the Obama administration, which mandated a national strategic plan. Advocates, including staff and volunteer ambassadors, regularly engage with members of the United States Congress and testify before committees like the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services.

Organizational structure and chapters

The national headquarters is located in Chicago, Illinois, with a public policy office in Washington, D.C., and a science division based in Waltham, Massachusetts. Governance is provided by a volunteer Board of Directors that includes leaders from fields such as pharmaceuticals, finance, and academia. The organization operates through a chapter network across the United States, with local chapters in all 50 states, including major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and New York City. These chapters deliver core services locally, implement fundraising events, and mobilize grassroots advocates in coordination with the national strategic plan.

Category:Alzheimer's disease organizations Category:Medical and health organizations based in Chicago Category:Organizations established in 1980