NEWT GINGRICH: Alzheimer’s is waging a war on millions. Congress could help us win it

Roughly one-in-nine Americans age 65 and older suffer from dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. This represents about 7.2 million people, according to the National Institutes of Health. Chances are, you know someone among them.

Alzheimer’s is a thief. It steals memories, identities, independence and, ultimately, it takes lives. It is the sixth-leading cause of death in America, but the loss extends far beyond the person diagnosed. Spouses become full-time caregivers. Adult children rearrange their lives and careers.