The actor partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association after facing the disease in his own family.
Samuel L. Jackson has spent decades in the spotlight portraying iconic characters in blockbusters like “Star Wars” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Now, the actor is using his platform to bring attention to a disease that has greatly impacted his family and millions of others: Alzheimer’s.
Jackson has a personal connection to the progressive brain disorder. His mother, grandfather, aunts, and uncles have all been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
“I have been surrounded by the disease for a very long time,” he said.
He has since partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to raise awareness about the disease. The actor is now speaking out about the importance of caregiving and early screening.
Caregiving is difficult but necessary
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, they usually need a caregiver, which is not an easy job. According to an Alzheimer’s Association survey from 2023, 70% of caregivers said coordinating care for people with dementia is stressful.
Between costs, finding the right medical help, and doctor’s visits, caregiving can be difficult, especially for people who already have jobs.
However, Jackson says it’s still important to care for your loved ones with compassion.
“Be patient and empathetic with your loved one, and show them as much love and comfort as you can,” Jackson said. “Be sure not to treat them any differently than you normally do because of the disease.”
He went on to say that he sees caregiving as an opportunity to nurture his loved ones the same way they nurtured him when he was young.
Earlier screening is key
Early detection of Alzheimer’s allows people to more easily organize a healthcare team and plan. And studies show that an early diagnosis can lower healthcare costs over time.
But according to research from the Alzheimer’s Association, half of the people with the disease have never been diagnosed and don’t even know they have it.
However, Jackson says he has hope for the future of because of the many advancements being made in early detection of the condition.
“They can diagnose Alzheimer’s much earlier and more accurately than ever before,” Jackson said. “There are also new medicines available that can significantly slow Alzheimer’s progression if treatment begins early enough.”
With more research, the hope is that the disease can be stopped.
“That’s why I have partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association for the last several years to raise public awareness and to support their mission of ending Alzheimer’s for good,” Jackson said.
