As the number of men and women diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease soars, the cost of care also soars. In 2017, it’s expected that the total cost of Alzheimer’s care will top $250 billion. This growth led to the U.S. Congress to support the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act. The Congress is ready to declare Alzheimer’s and dementia as being a public health issue.
What is the BOLD Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act?
S. 2076/H.R. 4256 looks at Alzheimer’s disease as a public health risk. It shifts attention to creating a solid plan to prevent, treat, and care for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The primary goals are to make sure that there are measures in place to:
• Provide early detection
• Make sure all patients receive the same level of dementia care, even if they are lower income
• Prevent unnecessary hospitalizations
• Lower the risk of declining cognitive abilities
• Offering more support to Alzheimer’s caregivers
• Providing a better plan for disease management and care
In order to do this, the BOLD Act would:
• Provide $5 million to help the CDC collect data regarding Alzheimer’s disease and dementia in each state.
• Provide $12 million to provide centers to offer support and education to family members, medical workers, and community organizations.
• Provide $20 million to individual state health departments to focus on Alzheimer’s care and preventative programs.
Research suggests that lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. These changes include losing weight, stopping smoking, getting plenty of exercises, and eating a healthy diet that avoids processed foods, fats, and excess sugar. Part of the plan with this bill is to focus on programs that make it easier for people to understand what they can do to reduce their risk.
Tips for Caring for Your Mom or Dad
If your parent has Alzheimer’s, you need to try to keep your stress down. It is harder to do than you might think. A parent with Alzheimer’s can be demanding, prone to mood swings, and often shows toddler-like behaviors. It’s important that you think of yourself, too. Make sure you’re taking breaks and returning to care for your mom or dad with a clear mind.
Home care agencies partner you with a caregiver who can take over in your absence. You go out with friends, spend time with a spouse or your children, and take as long a break as is needed to refresh. Learn more about respite services by calling a home care agency now.
If you or an aging family member are considering home care services in Marietta, GA,
please contact the caring staff at Caring Companions of Atlanta 470-514-5954.
Source: https://www.alz.org/facts/