They call it the silent killer. It affects one in eight older Americans and there are more than 5.4 million people currently living with this disease in the U.S. alone. It’s the only cause of death among the top 10 that cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed.

Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease that can create an overwhelming emotional and financial burden for families and caregivers. In 2012 alone, the direct costs of caring for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia in America will total an estimated $200 billion dollars. And these costs are predicted to soar in the coming years, with the incidence rate rising among aging baby boomers.

While doctors work to better understand the disease and how to eliminate it, here at the Indexed Annuities Leadership Council (IALC), we want you to know that there are things you can do to financially prepare for the long-term care costs associated with the disease. That’s why we’re proud to announce our partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association.

As an Alzheimer’s Champion, the IALC will educate consumers and agents on how to recognize the signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia, provide resources and support for helping a loved one with Alzheimer’s, and offer strategies on how to plan for the financial burden of the disease.

While we may not yet be able to prevent Alzheimer’s, we can help prepare for it.