Each year, the world stops and takes a closer look at Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia. Most people have been touched by Alzheimer’s in some way, whether it’s a family member, neighbor, or celebrity. September is World Alzheimer’s Month. Here are the top six facts about Alzheimer’s disease and how Alzheimer’s care can help you and your senior following a dementia diagnosis.

6.5 Million Americans Have Alzheimer’s

It’s estimated that 6.5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s. That number is expected to grow to 12.7 million by 2050. The older you are, the greater the chances that you’ll be diagnosed. A diet high in processed foods, lack of exercise, diabetes, and obesity are all believed to increase the risk.

It’s Not Just a Disease for the Old

While age is a risk factor, not everyone with Alzheimer’s is old. Early-onset Alzheimer’s occurs when a person is younger than 60. There are several cases of people in their late-20s and early-30s who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, including Ken Dodson who was diagnosed at the age of 29.

It’s Believed That as Many as 75% of Alzheimer’s Cases Haven’t Been Properly Diagnosed

It’s estimated that three out of four people experiencing cognitive issues haven’t been properly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. About 60% of doctors blame forgetfulness and symptoms of dementia on old age.

The Worldwide Cost of Alzheimer’s is $1.3 Trillion

If you take the overall cost of Alzheimer’s around the world, it comes to $1.3 trillion. It’s one of the most expensive diseases, and it can last for upwards of 20 years. In the U.S. alone, Medicare and Medicaid estimate the total cost of care in the last few years of Alzheimer’s is almost $290,000. Per Medicare, the cost of medical care is about $25,000 per year.

Every Three Seconds Someone Develops Alzheimer’s

Around the world, it’s estimated that someone develops Alzheimer’s every three seconds. That’s 20 new cases per minute. Not every person is properly diagnosed in the early stages.

Family Caregivers Need Supportive Care

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s is incredibly isolating and sad. It’s not uncommon to stop seeing friends, shut people out, and become isolated. Most frightening of all is that about 5% of unpaid caregivers committed suicide after caring for a friend or relative with Alzheimer’s.

Many times, this is due to a lack of support. Don’t isolate yourself. Make sure you’re taking care of your emotional and mental health. Hire Alzheimer’s care providers to help out.

Support your mom by arranging Alzheimer’s care sooner rather than later. Don’t wait until she’s easily agitated, as it can make it harder for her to adjust to a new caregiver. Try to have her working with caregivers earlier to ensure the transition to full-time Alzheimer’s care goes smoothly.

Sources:

https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/
https://www.alzint.org/about/dementia-facts-figures/dementia-statistics/
https://act.alz.org/site/DocServer/2012_Costs_Fact_Sheet_version_2.pdf?docID=7161
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40520-022-02160-6

The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable Alzheimer’s care in Braselton, GA, and the surrounding areas.

Call (770) 965-4004 for more information.

We provide home care in Braselton, Buford, Dacula, Duluth, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Oakwood, Sugar Hill, Suwanee, Barrow County, Forsyth County, Gwinnett County, Hall County, Jackson County, North Fulton County.

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Valerie Darling

Founder, Owner at Home Care Matters

Valerie was born in Miami, FL and after a few family moves, grew up locally in the Marietta, GA area.Valerie is the oldest of 4 (3 younger brothers).She is married and has one child.Valerie is the Founder, Owner and CEO of Home Care Matters.Valerie’s mom, Dee, is the inspiration and primary driver as the how and why the business was born.Valerie says, “My mom is never far from our thoughts.Mom was an integral part of developing and starting HCM before she passed away.Our goal is to stay true to her memory and continue to honor her with the love, values, and ethics she taught us.”

Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”

Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”

You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).

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