National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2008

Proclamation 8312 of October 29, 2008

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month,
2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

During National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, we
recognize the dignity and courage of the men and women
living with Alzheimer's disease. We also honor the
devoted family members and caretakers who bring them
love and comfort, and we underscore our dedication to
finding a cure for this tragic disease.

Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that seriously
impairs a person's ability to function normally. Age is
the most important known risk factor, and scientists
are studying the role that genetics, education, diet,
and environment might play in the development of this
debilitating disease. Through research supported by the
National Institutes of Health and the Department of
Veterans Affairs, we are learning more about the
disease and enhancing the quality of life for those
affected. In addition, the Department of Health and
Human Services is improving the delivery of home and
community-based services to people with Alzheimer's.

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month is an
opportunity to pay tribute to the courageous
individuals facing this disease and remember the
precious lives lost due to Alzheimer's. All Americans
appreciate the strong support and dedication of the
families, medical professionals, scientific
researchers, and caregivers who are helping build a
society that values the life and dignity of every
person.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim November 2008 as National
Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. I call upon the
people of the United States to observe this month with
appropriate programs and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-ninth day of October, in the year of our Lord
two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.