Alzheimer’s disease is a terrible neurodegenerative condition that unfortunately comes with many negative stereotypes. The stigma surrounding Alzheimer’s is a significant challenge to those dealing with the disease, that may even prevent people from seeking the help they need.
Several celebrities are speaking out and sharing their personal and family struggles with the disease which is helping to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research. Learn more about these top celebrity advocates for Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Stereotypes
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, those who have Alzheimer’s may experience the withdrawal of friends who may not believe the diagnosis and changed relationships with family who may avoid interaction. Those who do not understand the disease may feel like their loved one cannot have a good quality of life, will become aggressive, or cannot enjoy any activities.
These misconceptions can make the person diagnosed feel alone and isolated.
Furthermore, they can prevent patients from taking early action to increase treatment options.
Top 6 Celebrity Advocates for Alzheimer’s
With no cure for the disease in sight, celebrities are using their powerful voices to share personal stories to raise Alzheimer’s awareness that can reduce the powerful stigma associated with the disease.
Learn how these celebrities are making a positive impact in the fight against Alzheimer’s:
1. Glen Campbell
Country icon Glen Campbell was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 75 in 2011. Best known for country music hits like “Rhinestone Cowboy,” Campbell has gone public in his fight against Alzheimer’s. He continued to sing on tour while in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and even released an album after his diagnosis.
2. Scott Conant
Scott Conant is a celebrity chef and restaurateur, and often appears as a guest judge on cooking shows such as “Chopped.” The famous chef brought significant awareness to Alzheimer’s by winning the $50,000 grand prize on “Chopped-All Stars” to Keep Memory Alive, an organization that strives to increase awareness and raise funds for brain disorders. Chef Conant said this of his donation: “I’m proud to align myself with such a great organization like Keep Memory Alive. And then on top of it, to be able to pull out the win and bring them a check for $50,000. It’s amazing when things all line up. I feel really blessed.”
3. Victor Garber
Actor Victor Garber has a resume that spans over two decades and ranges from broadway to comedy movies. The talented actor has opened up about his own family’s experience with Alzheimer’s. Since losing both his parents to Alzheimer’s, Garber has been an outspoken advocate for Alzheimer’s research and funding. He has also partnered with actionalz.org to raise awareness.
4. Seth Rogen
Seth Rogen is a well-known actor and comedian, famous for his funny roles in movies like “Knocked Up” and “The Neighbors.” His mother-in-law was diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s disease when she was in her mid-50s. So, along with his wife, he created Hilarity for Charity, an educational campaign to teach younger people about Alzheimer’s, which will hopefully reduce the stigma associated with the disease.
5. Maria Shriver
Anchor, author, award winning journalist, and former First Lady of California, Maria Shriver appears to do it all. When her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s six years ago, she decided to get involved with a HBO documentary, “The Alzheimer’s Project.” The documentary showcased seven people living with the disease. In addition, she has written a children’s book to help young ones deal with a loved one’s diagnosis and has testified in front of Congress about the devastating effects of Alzheimer’s.
6. Rick Steves
World traveler Rick Steves shares his travel experiences on television and radio and is famous for writing several books about his European travels. He lost his mother to Alzheimer’s and has been an advocate for Alzheimer’s caregivers ever since. He also advocates for adult day care services to give caregivers a break when needed.
Did we miss any celebrities who are furthering Alzheimer’s awareness? Let us know who your favorite advocates for Alzheimer’s are, and what they are doing in the comments below.
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