New York State Executive Chamber | Governor Eliot Spitzer

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Proclamation

Whereas, the people of the Empire State appreciate the benefits of a long healthy life and one of the most serious health concerns facing many New Yorkers 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, 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 eighth leading cause of death in the United States and the twelfth leading cause of death among persons over 65 years of age in New York State; and

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

Whereas, there are nearly a half million persons with Alzheimer's disease and as many as two million family caregivers in New York State, and early recognition of symptoms and an accurate diagnosis are critical so that proper care and treatment can be provided; New York State is committed to ensuring that the frail elderly and chronically ill receive the best long-term health care that increases the dignity and quality of their life; 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, the collective efforts of such organizations as the Coalition for New York State Alzheimer's Disease Association Chapters, the Long Island Alzheimer's Foundation, the Alzheimer's Disease Assistance Centers, the Alzheimer's Community Service Programs, and the Alzheimer's Disease Community Assistance Program support early detection of the disease and the development of education, caregiver training and support services; and

Whereas, it is fitting that all New Yorkers join to recognize and support the goals of this observance as we encourage the medical community's ongoing research into possible causes and potential cures for Alzheimer's Disease, while offering support and understanding to those suffering from the disease as well as their families;

Now, Therefore, I, Eliot Spitzer, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby recognize November 2007 as Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-fifth day of October in the year two thousand seven.

Eliot Spitzer, Governor

Richard Baum, Secretary to the Governor