Alzheimer's is a progressive neurological disorder characterized by loss of memory and sense of direction.
According to the Pan American Health Organization and Alzheimer's Disease International, a person develops the illness every three seconds.
It is estimated the number of affected will go from the current 50 million to 152 million in the year 2050.
Today, global costs of this disorder amount to one billion dollars.
This scenario has created a true throwaway culture, which Pope Francis regrets.
POPE FRANCIS
It's a sickness that affects many men and women, who, because of this disease, are often the victims of violence and abuse.
Pope Francis is one world leader who speaks out on the marginalization of patients suffering from this disease.
During the Year of Mercy he visited the Villaggio Emmanuele, a residence dedicated to people with Alzheimer's.
'You are very kind! I love you very much.'
Alzheimer's not only affects the sufferer, it has also been a challenge for families.
GABRIELLA SALVINI
Alzheimer's Federation Italy
'We couldn't understand what was happening: my mother couldn't read. She told me that my sister was stealing her money, that she couldn't find anything... It was a tragedy. In the end, a doctor said maybe it was Alzheimer's.'
World Alzheimer's Day is celebrated every September 21, a date that seeks to raise awareness and promote initiatives to bring hope to patients and their families.
Daniel Díaz Vizzi
Translated: Melissa Butz
