Reps. Slavens, Knezek, Brown, Darany, Driskell, Durhal, Geiss, Heise, Howrylak, Kowall, Lamonte, LaVoy, Roberts, Segal and Stanley offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 268.

            A resolution to declare November 2013 as Alzheimer's Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

Whereas, The people of Michigan appreciate the benefits of a long healthy life. One of the most serious health concerns facing many Michiganders and Americans is the increasing incidence of Alzheimer's Disease, a slow, progressive disorder of the brain that results in loss of memory and other cognitive functions and eventually death; and  

Whereas, Alzheimer's Disease affects one in eight elderly people in the United States; and         

Whereas, November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month and we support this observance which focuses attention on a critical health issue that affects approximately five million Americans and is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States; and 

Whereas, More than 180,000 people in Michigan were diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2012. That number is expected to increase to 190,000 by 2025; and

Whereas, The onset of Alzheimer's Disease is generally later in life and there are social stigmas and misconceptions associated with the disease as well as little information about its causes; and

Whereas, Recent advancements in scientific research have led to improvements in medical treatment for individuals with Alzheimer's Disease and have demonstrated the benefits of early access to counseling and support services; and

Whereas, Alzheimer's Disease will cost the United States an estimated $203 billion in 2013; and

Whereas, Alzheimer's Disease takes a toll not only on those who are afflicted with it, but also on those who care for them. It is vital that researchers continue to seek a cure, that the general public be educated about the disease and that treatments and programs be available that can assist those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease and their families; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body declare November 2013 as Alzheimer's Awareness Month in the state of Michigan. We urge all citizens to become better educated about the disease and its impact on patients and families.