As a daughter, caregiver, clinician and researcher, I am deeply concerned about the impact of reduced funding for Alzheimer’s Disease research on families like mine. My father has Alzheimer’s, and I have seen how crucial clinical trials and research are in improving his care. While excited about new biologic therapies for Alzheimer’s, research helped us decide that they were not right for my dad due to his other health issues. This is a common reality for many, as most people with Alzheimer’s and dementia also deal with chronic conditions that complicate their care.
As a family nurse practitioner, I rely on research to guide my clinical decisions for patients with cognitive impairments. My research, focused on family caregiving, particularly the financial and employment challenges faced by “sandwich caregivers,” is made possible by federal funding. Without this funding, my work — and the solutions it could offer — would not exist.
The decisions about research funding affect real people. They impact our parents, children, and communities. I urge lawmakers to prioritize restoring and protecting funding for Alzheimer’s research and support the caregivers who make it possible.
Megan Thomas Hebdon, Salt Lake City
