The High Cost Of Caring For Alzheimer`s

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The High Cost Of Caring For Alzheimer`s

Although Medicare and Medicaid cover some health care costs for seniors with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, many expenses must be borne by the patient and their family. Costs are high. A 2006 study by the American Academy of Neurology of 200 people over a four-year period found the following:

The average number of medications used increased from six at the beginning of the study to eight by the fourth year, a 25% increase. Medication cost rose from $2,870 to $4,300 (a 50%) increase. (Alzheimer's patients are more likely to hit the doughnut hole gap in coverage under their Part D plans.)
Total medical care cost increased by almost 50% from $7,000 to $10,600.
Non-medical care cost increased almost seven times from $1,350 to $9,350.
Total direct cost of caring for a person with Alzheimer's was $9,250 at the start of the study. By the fourth year the cost had more than doubled to $20,000 per year.

Source: "Facing Reality: The Cost of Alzheimer Dementia - Who Will Pay?" Janet Jankowiak, MD: and David Knopman, MD, American Academy of Neurology, November, 2006.

Five Websites That Link You To Essential Benefits & Services For Seniors With Alzheimer's

Eldercare Locator - A public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Eldercare Locator connects seniors and their caregivers with sources of information on services. The service links those who need assistance with state and local area Agencies on Aging and community-based organizations that serve older adults and their caregivers.
BenefitsCheckUp —-This website helps seniors and family caregivers learn about programs that pay for prescription drugs, health care, utilities and other basic needs. Ironically, millions of older Americans - especially those with limited incomes - are eligible for, but not receiving, benefits from existing federal, state and local programs. The website helps you locate services and programs in your area and gives you complete contact information. Developed and maintained by The National Council on Aging.
Medicare - Medicare's website is full of information, but particularly important for persons with Alzheimer's are the Search tools. For example, all Part D drug plans have formularies (lists of preferred drugs they cover), and many have restrictions on coverage. It's difficult to find plans that offer good coverage of brand name Alzheimer's prescription drugs. By using the Medicare Drug Plan Finder you can compare plans and find the one that offers the best coverage for the best price. Other search tools allow you to learn more about what Medicare covers and compare nursing homes in your area.
The Alzheimer's Association -The Alzheimer's Association, is the first and largest voluntary health organization dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for Alzheimer's. Their web site is full of news, research, resources for caregivers, and helpful advice for coping with the disease.
The Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center - The ADEAR Center web site will help you find current, comprehensive Alzheimer's disease, information and resources from the National Institute on Aging.

July 2007