The Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders Association was incorporated on April 10, 1980, with a budget of $75,000 and businessman Jerome Stone as founding president. The seven founding chapters were Boston, Columbus, Minneapolis, New York City, Pittsburgh, San Francisco and Seattle.

In 1980, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) invested only $13 million in Alzheimer research. Then, in 1982, President Ronald Reagan designated the first National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Week. The Association founded more chapters and started its own research program. Things were beginning to happen.

The Alzheimer’s Association, today a multimillion-dollar organization, has been the catalyst and leader for a generation of advancements in Alzheimer research and care. Our organization’s achievements and progress in the field have given thousands of people a better quality of life and brought hope for millions more.

Our Mission:

To eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.

Our Vision:

A world without Alzheimer's disease.