[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 44 (Monday, November 4, 2002)]
[Pages 1904-1905]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7617--National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2002

 October 31, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Alzheimer's Disease robs its victims of their independence and 
identity and greatly affects the lives of their loved ones. This disease 
and other forms of dementia afflict approximately 50 percent of 
Americans age 85 and older. Due to the rapid growth of our elderly 
population, experts expect that the number of individuals who will 
develop this debilitating illness will dramatically increase. As we 
observe National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we rededicate 
ourselves to fighting this devastating affliction and to supporting 
Alzheimer's patients, their families, and their caregivers.
    Alzheimer's Disease harms its victims by altering the brain's 
chemistry and disrupting signals to the brain by attacking cells, 
nerves, and transmitters. Those who develop Alzheimer's Disease may 
experience memory lapses, confusion, or mood swings. They can also 
become withdrawn and depressed due to lost confidence, and they have 
significant problems communicating. These symptoms usually worsen over 
time and, in most cases, patients eventually need help with all of their 
daily activities.
    Researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and in the 
private sector are working to understand how Alzheimer's develops. We 
hope that their advances will lead to new methods for early diagnosis, 
new medications that will aid Alzheimer's patients in all stages of the 
disease, and ultimately a cure for this debilitating illness. Recent 
studies suggest that commonly used substances, including certain 
vitamins and anti-inflammatory drugs, may help prevent Alzheimer's 
Disease. In addition, we are working to increase understanding of the 
genetic and nongenetic risk factors that may influence the development 
of this disease.
    As we continue to pursue better prevention and treatment regimes, we 
remain committed to caring for those now afflicted with

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Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's patients generally live for an average 
of 8 to 10 years after they are diagnosed. As the disease progresses, 
patients require increased support from families and caregivers.
    Scientists at the NIH and the Department of Veterans Affairs are 
continuing their research to help improve patient care and ease the 
burdens of caregivers at home and in nursing facilities. The 
Administration on Aging is working to develop best practices for serving 
persons with Alzheimer's disease and assisting States as they attempt to 
improve their responsiveness and the accessibility of home and 
community-based long-term care services and other support resources. My 
Administration is increasing access to available information, education, 
and referrals about diagnostic and treatment services for those 
afflicted with Alzheimer's Disease.
    During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, I commend the 
members of our research community for their commitment to improving 
diagnosis and treatment for Alzheimer's Disease; and I encourage those 
suffering from or at risk for Alzheimer's to participate in clinical 
treatment studies and therapy trials. These studies and trials have been 
and continue to be an important part of our progress against this 
disease. I also commend the families and caregivers of individuals 
suffering from Alzheimer's disease who provide the care and support to 
their loved ones and carry the daily burden of this tragic disease.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2002 as 
National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the people of 
the United States to observe this month with appropriate programs and 
activities.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first 
day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-
seventh.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., November 4, 
2002]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on 
November 5.