The news broke last week. The Alzheimer’s Association released the 2011 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures. Media outlets across the country were reporting the painful statistics.
• 5.4 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease.
• 1 in 8 Americans have Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.
• Nearly 15 million Americans provide unpaid care for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia.
• 80% of care provided at home is delivered by family caregivers.
• 61% of the family caregivers reported high levels of emotional stress and approximately 33 % of the family caregivers reported depression symptoms.
• Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States.
The report confirms Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating illness that affects the dementia patient and the family caregiver. A cure is needed in order to save patients’ lives or at least significantly prolong the symptoms onset. But, what about the 15 million people providing unpaid care for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia?
These statistics prove more than ever that the family caregiver needs assistance. At a minimum, respite care or temporary relief is needed. The day-to-day stress is weighing physically and mentally on the family caregiver. Hiring a caregiver for temporary or ongoing assistance would give the family caregiver an opportunity to take a break, go to work, run errands, or work out. Getting away from the high stress situation, even if for a short period of time, will help the family caregiver’s well being in the long term.
If finances do not allow for a temporary or ongoing scheduled break, then consider asking a friend or family member for assistance. Another option is financial assistance. Several not-for-profit organizations have grants that are specifically for respite care. For those whose loved one is a US Military Veteran and needs caregiving services, contact the local county Veteran’s office and see if any benefits are available for cargiving assistance with activities daily living.
The Alzheimer’s Association published their report to build awareness, provide education, and to help find a cure. Bringing attention to the family caregiver will help agencies and the medical community realize how much the disease will both directly and indirectly impact our society, medical care, and insurance companies. A cure for the disease is needed, but until then, our family caregivers need help.
Your CAREjourney Guide,
Staci Witten
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