These numbers describe how our country’s economic health is linked to finding a cure to this disease. As the U.S. Congressional leadership changes, we have an excellent opportunity to make our case heard to our newly elected leaders. We need to talk not only about allocating appropriate funding levels for scientific research, but also providing economic support to families who are currently caring for loved ones with this disease. It’s going to take a concentrated effort among legislators, researchers, businesses, and the general population to defeat this terrible disease. If we don’t take action now, the approaching tidal wave of Alzheimer’s may very well defeat our nation.