Proclamation 9355-National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2015
Issued 2015-10-28 by Barack Obama
Plain-English Overview
AI-generated summary explaining what this action does, who it affects, and why it matters
President Obama declared November 2015 as National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month to bring attention to a disease affecting more than 5 million Americans. This proclamation recognizes the challenges faced by people living with Alzheimer's and their family caregivers, noting that misunderstandings about the disease can isolate and stigmatize those affected. The declaration itself doesn't create new programs or spending—it's a ceremonial statement calling on Americans to learn more about the disease and support those dealing with it.
The proclamation highlights existing federal efforts already underway, including the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease, which aims for prevention and effective treatment by 2025. It also references ongoing research initiatives like the BRAIN Initiative and the Precision Medicine Initiative that support Alzheimer's research. The statement emphasizes the need to support family caregivers who face emotional, financial, and physical challenges while caring for loved ones with dementia.
This type of presidential proclamation is a traditional ceremonial action that raises public awareness without imposing legal obligations or directing new federal spending. It falls within the long-standing executive tradition of designating observance months for important causes, allowing the President to express national recognition and solidarity with affected communities.
AI-generated summary for educational purposes
Constitutional Analysis
How this action fits (or doesn't) within Article II authority and existing law
This proclamation designates "Proclamation 9355-National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2015" — a ceremonial observance that brings national attention to disease. Presidents have issued ceremonial proclamations since George Washington, and they fall squarely within the executive tradition. They do not create new law, direct federal spending, or impose legal obligations on citizens.
Ceremonial proclamations like this one are purely declaratory. They express the sentiment of the President on behalf of the nation, drawing public awareness to causes or communities. They require no congressional approval and face no constitutional challenges.
Official Summary
Administration of Barack Obama, 2015 Proclamation 9355—National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month, 2015 October 28, 2015 By the President of the United States of America A Proclamation Each year, people with Alzheimer's disease experience devastating physical and emotional challenges, as the abilities to remember, learn, and think worsen over time—and their loved ones face challenges right alongside them. Although Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, it is often misunderstood, and misperceptions about the disease can isolate and stigmatize people with dementia and their families. This month, and every month, we stand with the more than 5 million people in the United States who live with Alzheimer's and with the caregivers who help them age with dignity. The Federal Government is the leading funder of Alzheimer's research, and together with the scientific community, patient advocates, and advocacy groups, we are supporting a broad portfolio of research as part of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease—which maps concrete goals toward the prevention and effective treatment of Alzheimer's by 2025. With the expansion and innovation of research initiatives, we are gaining new insight on how to delay, treat, and prevent this