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Each day, over 1000 Americans are diagnosed with dementia. Health Outcomes, Planning, and Education (HOPE) for Alzheimer’s Act seeks to “increase access to information on care and support for newly diagnosed individuals and their families – providing essential support for those facing this devastating, debilitating disease,” according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Dr. Hank Paulson, professor at the University of Michigan, director of the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Center, and board member for United Methodist Retirement Communities (UMRC), spoke at the U.S. Senate subcommittee on July 13, 2016, on behalf of colleagues, patients, and their families.
“As a doctor, I’ve seen the deep fear and uncertainty that can accompany this diagnosis… too often, the future brought on by this progressive disease remains uncharted and frightening.”
Dr. Paulson goes on to talk about how two-thirds of seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are unaware of their diagnosis and how the benefits of early diagnosis help families receive answers to questions earlier. According to Dr. Paulson, the HOPE Act will reduce federal health care cost by nearly $700 million dollars over the next decade.
“The comprehensive care planning services provided by the HOPE Act will improve the lives of millions of American families confronting dementia,” Dr. Paulson said.
For more information, listen to Dr. Paulson beginning at 56:32 of this clip: U.S. Senate Subcommittee Hearing on Health Care