Missouri Governor signs Proclamation for Missouri Alzheimer’s Awareness Day
MISSOURI(KBSI) – Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe signed a proclamation today March 11, 2025, in an effort to raise education around Alzheimer’s after more than 122,000 Missourians suffer from the disease according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Lydia Hess is the Southeast Missouri Alzheimer’s Association Program Manager. She says many families need a support system after a loved one has received a diagnosis.
“It can be an isolating disease”, says Hess. It can be isolating to be at home with your loved one and not really know what steps to take with your loved one and not know quite what to do.”
According to the Alzheimer’s Association 122,000 Missouri’s suffer with Alzheimer’s or Demetia with an additional 220,000 family members or loved ones serving as unpaid caregivers.
“In our area alone we have, Cape Girardeau County 1600 individuals aged 65 or older who are living with Demetia or Alzheimer’s and then we also have an estimate of Scott County with 800 individuals that are impacted so this shows that this disease is a major concern for area” says Hess.
Researchers are unsure of exactly what causes Alzheimer’s disease but say it likely develops through multiple factors such as genetics lifestyle and environment with one third of people aged 85 and older having Alzheimer’s.
Hess says that while there’s no cure there are treatment options available especially if treatment is started early.
The Alzheimer’s Association of Southeast Missouri offers a 24 hour help line to help connect caregivers and family members to resources in the area. They provide education through early detection, support groups held at Cape Public Library and more.
Greater Missouri Chapter | Alzheimer’s Association
To get immediate help 24 hours a day or to find resources and support near you call 24/7 Helpline: 1.800.272.3900 | Alzheimer’s Association.
