[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 44 (Monday, November 7, 2005)]
[Pages 1649-1650]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7958--National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2005

November 3, 2005

By the President of the United States

of America

A Proclamation

    National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month is an opportunity to 
recognize the strength of family members, doctors, nurses, volunteers, 
and others who provide care for those living with this devastating 
disease. During this month, we also reaffirm our commitment to victims 
of this disease. We hope to enhance the quality of life for Alzheimer's 
patients and improve prevention and treatment.
    Approximately 4.5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer's 
disease. The disease gradually destroys parts of the brain that control 
memory, learning, communication, and reason. As it progresses, 
individuals may also experience changes in behavior and personality, 
leading to severely impaired cognitive abilities and the need for full-
time care and assistance. Age remains the greatest risk factor--the 
National Institute on Aging estimates that the percentage of people who 
develop Alzheimer's disease doubles for each 5-year age group beyond 65. 
Alzheimer's affects nearly half of those over 85.
    While there is no known cure or certain treatment, researchers are 
learning more about what causes this tragic disease and how to control 
its symptoms. My Administration remains committed to funding medical 
research programs to help prevent, treat, and find a cure for 
Alzheimer's disease. The National Institute on Aging has begun new 
initiatives to improve development and testing of medicines that may 
slow progression of the disease. The Department of Veterans Affairs is 
supporting research through its Geriatric Research, Education and 
Clinical Centers, and the Administration on Aging is working to improve 
home and community-based services for Alzheimer's patients. By working 
together, we can learn more about treatment options and bring greater 
comfort to those afflicted with this disease.

[[Page 1650]]

    Our Nation is grateful for the scientists, researchers, and health 
care professionals who are dedicated to treating Alzheimer's patients 
and finding a cure. We are also grateful for the hard work and 
compassionate spirit of family members and caregivers. Their efforts 
reflect the character and spirit of America.
    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 2005 as National 
Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon all Americans to 
observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of 
November, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and 
thirtieth.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:20 a.m., November 4, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
November 7.