Rochester Alzheimer’s Care

Alzheimer’s disease is not something that only affects a few. In fact, it is listed in the top 10 of causes of death in America. However, unlike the others on this list, it cannot be slowed down, it cannot be prevented and there is no cure. In 2014, there were 380,000 people in the state of New York over the age of 65 who were affected by this disease. This number is expected to grow to 410,000 by 2020 and 460,000 by 2025. While this is not exactly an optimistic outlook, there are more resources than ever before to help family members of those suffering from Alzheimer’s, as well as the patients, caregivers, and their physicians. In fact, the Alzheimer’s Association has a local chapter in Rochester, NY.

Rochester Stats about Alzheimer’s Disease

Some of the facts around Alzheimer’s disease and the residents of Rochester, as well as the entire state of New York, are found here.

The percentage of seniors (individuals over the age of 65) who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease in New York is 13 percent.

Between the years of 2020 and 2025, the percentage of cases is expected to rise from 8 percent to 21 percent.

The number of deaths due to Alzheimer’s disease in 2010 was 2,616, which represented a 70 percent increase since 2000.

Care Options for those Afflicted by Alzheimer’s Disease

When someone suffers from Alzheimer’s disease they are not alone in their struggle. In many cases, their family suffers, as well, both emotionally and financially. While there are a number of care options, many of them cost more than the average family can realistically afford.

One of the most common options for care is home care. This is when the family member actually takes care of their afflicted loved one. In 2013, there were 101,000 total caregivers in the Rochester and New York area, with 1,150,000 hours of unpaid care, which equated to $742 million of unpaid care. This is a cost that families have to shoulder.

Other options for care include having a trained professional come in the home and provide care for the afflicted person or investing in a nursing home or memory care center for the person suffering from Alzheimer’s. These facilities offer around-the-clock care that ensures the individuals receive stimulating activities to help and reduce the effects of the disease and ensure the person receives ample nutrition to keep them healthy.

Rochester Cost of Care for Alzheimer’s Patients

The cost of care for Alzheimer’s patients will be dependent on a number of factors, which include their location, the level of care required, the actual size of the living space that the resident will be in, and how luxurious the actual community is. The average cost of memory care services in Rochester ranges from approximately $2,300 up to $6,180 per month.

There are several memory care facilities in the Rochester area with each one having extremely varied prices due to the amenities and the luxuriousness of the facility. For example, there are some that start around $2,500 for a basic, private room, while others start at $5,100 for a basic, private room per month. Most families will have to evaluate what they can realistically afford to find the right facility for their loved one.

Options to Pay for Long-Term Alzheimer’s Care in Rochester

When caring for a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, many families take a financial hit. This can cause some to deplete their savings and even sell off assets in order to provide the quality care that their loved one needs. The good news is, there are a number of services to assist families in paying for memory care.

State Assistance

There are two programs in New York offered to lower-income individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid coverage. These programs both offer financial help to ensure the cost of care for seniors is covered. One program is EISEP, Expanded In-home Services for the Elderly Program, which offers private care, in the senior’s home. Another is EPIC, which is The Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage program. There are two levels to provide seniors with financial assistance.

Medicaid Waivers and Programs

Medicaid is offered for seniors who qualify financially. However, even those who make over the income limits may still be eligible for some type of care. There are also three waiver programs offered by Medicaid that can help to pay for home care and living expenses for a senior who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. Being aware of the options provides a person with the ability to get the help they need.