State Rep. Bronna Kahle of Adrian today led Michigan House approval of a resolution declaring June as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month.

The resolution encourages residents to envision a world without Alzheimer’s and encourage research and other work to combat its human and economic costs.

Kahle noted families across Michigan struggle with Alzheimer’s and its repercussions every day. Her father passed away from the devastating disease in 2016.

“The challenges and the pain of Alzheimer’s knows no boundaries. It could affect any of our families, friends and neighbors at any time,” Kahle said. “This resolution is one way we can help raise awareness and support the individuals, families and caregivers who live with the effects of Alzheimer’s disease every day.”

Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative brain disorder tragically robbing individuals of their memories, leading to mental and physical impairments. There are no known treatments to prevent, cure, or even delay the onset or slow the progression of the disease.

An estimated 190,000 Michigan residents aged 65 or older are living with Alzheimer’s today. The disease is the sixth-leading cause of death in the United States.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s Facts and Figures report says 517,000 family members and friends cared for people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in Michigan last year, providing 589 million hours of unpaid care, with the annual value of this caregiving totaling $7.4 billion.

Kahle also urged Michigan residents to wear purple to recognize the month.