There are 15 million Americans with Alzheimer 's and 5.4 million caretakers . Maria Carrillo : New National Alzheimer 's Plan is first push to find solutions to disease . In addition , caregivers themselves often experience depression and worsening of health because of the intense care that a person with Alzheimer 's eventually requires . Upcoming drug trials offer promise , she says : One in U.S , One in U.S . It 's crucial to keep a commitment to research , Carrillo writes .
There are 15 million Americans with Alzheimer 's and 5.4 million caretakers . Maria Carrillo : New National Alzheimer 's Plan is first push to find solutions to disease . Upcoming drug trials offer promise , she says : One in U.S , One in U.S . It 's crucial to keep a commitment to research , Carrillo writes .