Long-Term Care Features: Alzheimer's Care

Mental illness care for the elderly is a growing concern. An overwhelming percentage of people over the age of 80 have some form of dementia. 50% of people over 85 suffering from Alzheimer’s.

The emotional impact of these diseases on caregivers and loved ones is immense. In early stages, for example, short-term memory fades, as does sense of time and place. Most painfully, the loved one will begin to fail to recognize their family. They are the same person, yet their behavior is recognizable.

The Debilitating Effects of Alzheimer's Disease

As the disease progresses, the sense of loss and of frustration may increase for both patient and caregiver, particularly as verbal skills also deteriorate. As this happens, the afflicted person of course can become frustrated about their inability to communicate. This can lead to even less recognizable behavior, including violence.

Perhaps the most dangerous symptom of the disease is wandering. It is as though the loved one is no longer recognize where they are. They seem to be searching for some abstract or undefined space where they feel they need to be. This can, of course, be a constant source of anxiety for caregivers. Fortunately, there are options. For a time, in home care may be practical. Specialized skilled and custodial caregivers can assist family members. Additionally, adult day centers and senior centers tailored to meet the special needs of Alzheimer’s patients exist in most communities. All of these resources can be used, singly or in combination, to alleviate both caregiver burn out and the pain of isolation many seniors feel.

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Alzheimer's Solutions and the Rising Cost of Care

If this is not a feasible alternative for whatever reason, several assisted living facilities for Alzheimer’s’ patients can be found in most communities. Sometimes these are stand-alone places or they can be part of a larger facility. These provide social activities and entertainment, along with specialized care.

Because Alzheimer's patients need a locked facility, cannot express their needs and require a much higher staff to patient ratio at an earlier stage than most elderly people do, care for these individuals can be extremely expensive. This price point often increases as the disease progresses.

For example, a standard assisted living facility costs around $1,800 per month for a small apartment. An early-stage Alzheimer’s assisted living facility costs around $3,200 a month for a semi-private room. Costs peak at around $8,000 a month for full time skilled nursing care. For most, this means they have no choice but to bankrupt themselves to pay for their care, then must rely on an ever-diminishing Medicaid program to cover the remaining costs. LTC insurance can help alleviate some of these costs.

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