Guardian’s Commitment to the Alzheimer’s Association: Making a Difference in 2024

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading source=”post_title” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:44px|text_align:center|line_height:58px” use_theme_fonts=”yes” css=”.vc_custom_1722359423431{margin-bottom: 35px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column] [vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly older adults. This year, Guardian Pharmacy is proud to announce the Alzheimer’s Association as our charity of choice. We recognize the critical importance of addressing this pervasive disease and supporting those affected by it. With each of our 48+ locations nationwide, we have a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the communities we serve.

Here’s why we’ve chosen to stand with the Alzheimer’s Association and how you can join us in making a difference.

Alzheimer’s disease is a common condition among older adults, and its prevalence increases with age. Despite a slight decline in the proportion of older adults with dementia from 13% in 2011 to 10% in 2019, demographic shifts, particularly the aging baby boomer generation, are expected to drive an overall increase in the number of individuals affected by this disease.

Quick Facts

• By age 65, approximately 10% of individuals are affected, a figure that escalates to as high as 50% among those aged 85 and older

• The diagnosis rate for Alzheimer’s doubles every five years beyond age 65

• More than 7 million people aged 65 and older had dementia in 2020, a number that could surpass 9 million by 2030 and nearly 12 million by 2040 if current trends continue.

The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease, related dementia, or cognitive impairment is high among nursing home residents, exceeding 40%. This statistic underscores the urgent need for specialized care and support within long-term care facilities, a demand set to grow alongside the projected rise in dementia cases in the coming decades.

Dementia, encompassing Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders, profoundly impacts memory, cognition, and social functioning, severely curtailing independence and necessitating extensive caregiving. Not only does dementia take an emotional toll on families, but caring for a person living with dementia is also more expensive and time-consuming than other conditions common at older ages.

Guardian Pharmacy serves more than 162,000 residents of long-term care facilities across the U.S. As a provider of pharmacy services to a large number of residents who may be affected by Alzheimer’s disease, we see firsthand the impact this condition has on individuals, their families, and their caregivers. By choosing the Alzheimer’s Association as our charity of choice for 2024, we are committing to support an organization that works tirelessly to advance dementia care and support those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. This cause not only enhances our presence in our communities but also shows solidarity with the many individuals we serve who are directly affected by this disease.

Joining the Alzheimer’s Association community of fundraisers has a profound impact. In FY23, contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association from donors and partners totaled over $374 million , directly supporting those affected by Alzheimer’s and advancing research. The Walk to End Alzheimer’s alone raised $89.5 million , engaging over 300,000 participants. Strategic fundraising efforts across various platforms have shown significant results, demonstrating the power of collective action in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Together, we can make a real difference.

Each Guardian Pharmacy location is encouraged to form a team and connect with their local Alzheimer’s Association chapter. Whether it’s participating in a Walk or Ride to End Alzheimer’s, hosting educational events, or volunteering, each pharmacy’s involvement in their local community can create a meaningful contribution.

For example, the Birmingham, Alabama pharmacy team showed incredible community spirit by rallying its employees to support The Alzheimer’s Association’s The Longest Day on June 20 th through a baked goods silent auction. This event not only raised funds but also increased awareness about Alzheimer’s disease within their community. [Read more about the Birmingham team’s efforts]

Our goal for 2024 is for each of our 48+ pharmacy locations and our corporate support services to commit to building a team and getting involved. We recognize that no action is too small to make a big difference in the fight to #ENDALZ.

We invite everyone to join us in our stand against Alzheimer’s in 2024. Getting involved is easy. Sign up for an Alzheimer’s Event near you, find volunteer opportunities in your community, or start your fundraiser event.

By coming together as a community, we can make a significant impact in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Join Guardian Pharmacy in supporting the Alzheimer’s Association and help us work towards a future without this devastating condition. Together, we can #ENDALZ. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]