The Alzheimer’s Association released
their “2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” report last spring. In it, it shows that for the second
consecutive year the total payments to care for people
with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
are estimated to exceed a quarter of a trillion dollars. “The projected $277 billion total is an
increase of almost $20 billion from last year. By 2050, costs are expected to
surpass $1 trillion.”
The report also shows that the number
of Americans who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s is growing every year. It is estimated that 5.7 million
people in our country have Alzheimer’s and every 65 seconds someone develops
the disease. Based on those figures, the
Alzheimer’s Association now predicts that 14 million people will have the
disease by 2050. These numbers are
making the disease one of the most expensive in the country.
However one important point highlighted
in the report is the assumption that if more people are diagnosed in the early
stages of the disease, it could save the country “as much as $7.9 trillion over
the lifetimes of those living with it.” Although
there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, drug and non-drug
treatments can help with both cognitive and behavioral symptoms. The 2018 report says that an early diagnosis
can also be beneficial to the person’s caregivers and family.
Keith Fargo, director of scientific
programs and outreach for the Alzheimer's Association, states that "We
must continue to attack Alzheimer's through a multidimensional approach that
advances research while also improving support for people with the disease and
their caregivers." From 2000 to
2015, deaths from the disease increased 123 percent and Alzheimer’s is now the
sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S.
MorningStar
at Bear Creek is a senior living community devoted to
the care of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms
of dementia.
Our specially trained staff provides personalized care for residents
using progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive joy. The goal of
MorningStar’s methods is to affirm dignity and value of each resident and to
support choice and independence as much as possible. Please contact us to learn more.
MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique
vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to
invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and
selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. We are dedicated to creating a
true home for residents within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a
tour to see firsthand our exceptional community.
Source: usnews.com/news/health-care-news/articles/2018-03-20/report-alzheimers-disease-will-cost-us-277b-in-2018
No comments:
Post a Comment