Some Startling Facts About Alzheimer’s Disease 

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It might seem impersonal to talk about Alzheimer’s disease purely based on statistics and facts. After all, Alzheimer’s affects many seniors and their families, and boiling it down to some numbers is like neglecting the struggle endured by these families daily. However, the statistics cannot be ignored and it shows that the disease affects millions of people across the world. This includes patients, their families, and caregivers. 

 

The big numbers combined with the struggles of those affected should be considered while deciding on what should be done to decrease the impact in the coming years. Some of the startling facts about Alzheimer’s disease as shared by the Alzheimer’s foundation are given below to help you make a perspective about the severity of the condition and the importance of memory care

 

Alzheimer’s Facts 

 

It Is The Sixth Leading Cause Of Death In The United States

As per the experts in senior living, Alzheimer’s is not just a type of dementia, but it is a killer. The statistics show that more Americans die of Alzheimer’s than influenza, diabetes, pneumonia, and suicide. This statistic may be probably worse, as many seniors in the country die of Alzheimer’s-related causes like stroke or heart attack, which shows up in another death category. 

 

Alzheimer’s Death Has Increased Since 2000

As more and more people now enter their senior years generally healthily; life expectancy has increased and this has contributed to the statistics. Also, Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases are diagnosed and treated earlier; thanks to the latest technology. This has also contributed to the death numbers from Alzheimer’s disease. 

 

The Number Of Alzheimer’s Sufferers In The US May Reach 16 Million By 2050

Healthy lifestyle, pre-diagnosis, demographics, and improved caregiving, together with increasing awareness of dementia can lead to this frightening spike in the coming years. 

 

Different Types Of Dementia Can Cost The Country More Than 1 Trillion Dollars By 2050

Experts in senior health expect the care costs to quadruple by 2050. This is due to the rise in the number of Alzheimer’s patients and the increase in healthcare costs. Recent statistics show that the disease is costing the country 259 billion dollars per year in terms of hospital stays, care, and other charges. 

 

Two-Thirds Of The Population Suffering From Alzheimer’s Is Women

Alzheimer’s and other dementia disorders can affect anyone, but statistics show that it is more prevalent in women. The reason being a complete mystery. Nevertheless, a few are opinionated that this is mainly due to the longer life expectancy seen in women.

 

Afro-Americans Are More Likely To Be Diagnosed With Alzheimer’s

Research and studies show that Afro-Americans and Hispanics are more probable to be detected with Alzheimer’s. That said, the exact reason for this is not yet found by researchers. 

 

Most Dementia Patients Will Wander

As per the studies conducted on dementia patients, it was found that six of ten dementia patients will wander. If not found within a day, half of the wanderers will suffer from serious accidents or even death. Therefore, wandering should be an important concern for Alzheimer’s caregivers. Understand that wandering is not a rare or random occurrence. Technology can help bring the patients home; however, it is important to know the signs of wandering and take the necessary steps to prevent it. 

 

Alzheimer’s Is An Important Cause Of Death Without Any Cure Or Treatment

Alzheimer’s is a fatal condition and it is a major cause of death without any cure. Heart issues, stroke, cancer, etc can be treated and suicides and accidents can be avoided. Nevertheless, Alzheimer’s is a condition without any recovery or prevention. This is why it is important to continue research and offer better caregiving to counter the effects of the condition. 

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