Over 5 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. But if you're struggling with the physical, emotional and financial costs of caring for a loved one with this devastating illness, you may feel completely alone. With the latest news from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, hopefully more help and support is on the horizon.

On May 15, 2012, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius released an ambitious national plan to fight Alzheimer's disease; The National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease sets forth five goals:

• Prevention & Treatment - Development of effective prevention and treatment approaches for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias by 2025.

• Research – The funding of new research projects including a $7.9 million effort to test an insulin nasal spray for treating Alzheimer’s disease. A second study, toward which NIH is contributing $16 million, is the first prevention trial in people at the highest risk for the disease. 

• Tools for Clinicians – The Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded $2 million in funding through its geriatric education centers to provide high-quality training for doctors, nurses, and other health care providers on recognizing the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and how to manage the disease. 

• Caregiver Support - Easier access to information to support caregivers–HHS’ new website, www.alzheimers.gov, offers resources and support to those facing Alzheimer’s disease and their friends and family.

• Awareness Campaign – The first new television advertisement encouraging caregivers to seek information at the new website was debuted. This media campaign will be launched this summer, reaching family members and patients in need of information on Alzheimer’s disease. 

If you’re dealing with the impact of Alzheimer’s disease right now, answers and help can’t come soon enough. But remember, you’re not alone. There are a variety of adult day care programs, home health care professionals and memory care programs available to provide the services your loved one needs. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Make some calls. Visit memory care centers. You may be surprised at what you find. For example, The Inn on the Pond is an elegant assisted living residence in Pinellas County that offers a specialized memory care program, called Inspirations. This intimate, secure setting offers 25 private suites, elegant dining rooms, life-enriching programs and more.  A memory care program such as Inspirations can have a dramatic impact on a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia, providing an engaging lifestyle that blends independence and support.