Former NFL Quarterback Tommy Kramer Discloses Dementia Diagnosis
In a heartfelt announcement, former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Tommy Kramer shared on social media that he has been diagnosed with dementia. The 69-year-old revealed that he received this diagnosis over a year ago while undergoing health evaluations at the Cleveland Clinic, specifically designed for former NFL players.
Inspired by Brett Favre's recent disclosure of his own Parkinson's diagnosis, Kramer felt compelled to share his condition to raise awareness about the health issues many retired players face. Kramer and Favre are among the 25% of former players who believe that have neurological issues from playing in the NFL.
Kramer shared his news on X, stating that he did not wish to receive sympathy from others. He emphasized his desire to focus on his experiences rather than invite pity.
Please, no sympathy, I've lived a great life and wouldn't change a thing. Nobody wanted to win more than me and I never gave up, and that's exactly how I'm going to battle this.
Kramer expressed his gratitude for the chance to play in the NFL and noted his appreciation for the league's ongoing initiatives to improve player safety. He is encouraged by the steps being taken to better protect current and future athletes in the sport.
Thank you for all the support, and always remember, We're not here for a long time; we're here for a good time.
The Alzheimer’s Association, in an X post, thanked Kramer for making his diagnosis public and letting people know there are services available for loved ones with dementia.
Link on X - https://x.com/alzassociation
In his announcement, Kramer emphasized that he has not seen significant progression in his condition during his latest checkup and noted his commitment to sobriety, which he believes will aid in managing his dementia.
Kramer is hopeful that by sharing his journey, he can help improve awareness and support for other former players struggling with similar health challenges. He acknowledged the NFL's efforts to assist retired players but also pointed out that many, including himself, could benefit from enhanced support.
Played 14 Seasons in NFL
Kramer, affectionately nicknamed "Two-Minute Tommy," is well-remembered for his remarkable late-game performances, including a legendary Hail Mary pass that clinched the NFC Central Division title for the Vikings in 1980. Kramer played college football at Rice University, where he had a standout career before entering the NFL. He spent 13 of his 14 seasons in the NFL with Minnesota and is currently second in franchise history for passing yards. He concluded his NFL career with a single season (1990) with the New Orleans Saints.
Dementia and Professional Sports
Dementia, a progressive syndrome affecting memory, thinking, and behavior, is increasingly recognized as a significant concern, particularly for athletes in contact sports like football.
Recent studies have shown that former professional American football players face a significantly higher risk of developing dementia compared to the general population. Research indicates that these athletes are approximately 3.5 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative diseases and over 5 times more likely to die from Alzheimer's disease.
Contact sports, including American football, rugby, and even soccer, have been linked to an increased risk of dementia. Research suggests that head injuries sustained during these sports may elevate the likelihood of developing neurodegenerative diseases. This connection highlights the importance of considering head trauma as a significant factor in the broader landscape of dementia risk.
This increased risk is primarily attributed to the repeated head impacts that players experience during their careers, which can lead to long-term cognitive decline.
One-third of Former NFL Players Think They Have CTE
A recent study conducted by the Football Players Health Study at Harvard University revealed that about one-third of nearly 2,000 former NFL players believe they may have chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE is a degenerative brain disease associated with symptoms such as cognitive decline, changes in behavior and mood, and motor difficulties.
Among nearly 2,000 former NFL players surveyed, 25% of those who believed they had CTE reported experiencing frequent suicidal thoughts, compared to just 5% of players who did not share the same belief. This stark difference highlights the significant psychological impact that perceived CTE symptoms can have on mental health.
Rachel Grashow, PhD MS, director of epidemiological research initiatives for the Football Players Health Study and a senior research scientist at Harvard Chan School, told NPR that the study highlights that common conditions seen in former NFL players—such as sleep apnea, low testosterone, high blood pressure, and chronic pain—can negatively impact cognitive functions like thinking, memory, and concentration. Dr. Grashow said addressing these health issues early may help reduce cognitive decline and improve quality of life.
While we wait for advances in CTE research to better address living players' experiences, it is imperative that we identify conditions that are treatable. These efforts may reduce the chances that players will prematurely attribute symptoms to CTE which may lead to hopelessness and thoughts of self-harm.
The concern over cognitive health is not limited to football. Athletes in other contact sports like hockey and rugby also face similar risks. Studies have highlighted that these sports, which involve frequent collisions and potential head injuries, can lead to conditions like CTE and other forms of dementia.
The heightened risk among football players is linked to several factors, including the frequency of head impacts, particularly from heading the ball. Studies have shown that even subconcussive impacts, which do not lead to immediate symptoms, can accumulate and contribute to cognitive decline over time.
NFL Long-Term Care Benefits
The National Football League (NFL) offers reimbursement for eligible expenses if a former player is diagnosed with conditions like dementia, ALS, or Parkinson's disease. This coverage includes up to $160,000 annually for in-patient care at approved institutions and up to $140,000 annually for at-home care, helping former players manage the significant costs associated with these health conditions.
Former NFL players can purchase Long-Term Care Insurance at age 50 through a group LTC Insurance program. The program features $219,000 of benefits that grow with inflation.
In the broader context, cognitive decline and dementia are major public health issues affecting millions. The Alzheimer's Association reports that nearly 6.9 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia. The general prevalence of dementia is expected to rise as the population ages.
Private LTC Insurance Can Pay for Dementia Care
Unlike NFL players, few group Long-Term Care Insurance offerings through employers exist. However, a survey by LTC News reports that private LTC Insurance is affordable and available, depending on your age and health.
Many Americans ignore aging and dementia issues and assume that health insurance and Medicare will pay for the needed long-term care services that are necessary due to a chronic illness, accident, dementia, or frailty due to aging. Many families are shocked that only short-term skilled care is paid for by health insurance and Medicare.
Unless you or a loved one has Long-Term Care Insurance or is qualified for Medicare due to limited financial resources, a care recipient must pay for their care from income and assets, or loved ones must become caregivers.
More people today are aware of the consequences of aging and are planning for retirement and long-term care in their 40s or 50s. However, if you wait until you have a substantial physical or cognitive condition, it will usually be too late to find an insurance solution because of the medical underwriting used when you apply for an LTC policy.
Brett Farve and Tommy Kramer's public disclosure may make more people aware of the need to plan for the consequences of aging. While most people have never played professional sports, longevity is the top reason people may need help with everyday living activities or supervision due to memory problems.