Colorado Springs Memory Care

The total number of people over the age of 65, in 2010, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease in Colorado totaled 72,000. There were also more than 227,372 caregivers who were providing unpaid care, which was valued for more than $3.1 billion. It is expected that by 2025, the total number of afflicted individuals in this state will be over 110,000. Compared to the number seen in 2000, of 49,000. This represents an increase of more than half in just a two-decade span of time.

While these facts and figures are not exactly promising, the fact is, there are more resources and information available today than there ever was in the past. This information provides patients, their family members, doctors and caregivers with the information they need to take the best possible course of action in regard to on-going memory care.

The Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease in Colorado Springs and the State of Colorado

Some disturbing facts about Alzheimer’s disease are found here.

Individuals who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease typically live for an average of eight to 10 years after their diagnosis.

There is currently no cure for this disease.

The youngest person to ever be diagnosed with this disease was 26; however, these young onset cases are becoming increasingly prevalent.

In 2000, there were approximately 49,000 people in Colorado with Alzheimer’s disease and by 2025, it is estimated that this number is going to double to more than 110,000.

Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the state of Colorado.

In 2007, three percent of all deaths in Colorado resulted from Alzheimer’s disease.

Care Options in Colorado for those Suffering from Memory Disorders

For most people, when their family member is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, they provide care. In fact, there are millions of dollars in unpaid care being provided in the state for those suffering from Alzheimer’s. However, in-home care is not the only option.

A more comprehensive source of care is a memory care facility. These facilities are designed to provide 24/7 care for those suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other memory issues. They offer socialization, nutrition and other types of care that ensure the person has everything they need.

The Cost of Alzheimer’s Care in Colorado Springs

The average cost of Alzheimer’s care in Colorado is around $4,900. This is a bit lower than some of the surrounding states, but can still provide quite a blow to a family’s financial situation. That is the state average; however, the average cost for care in Colorado Springs is somewhat lower at only $3,350. The actual costs that will be incurred will be based on location, level of care and type of care facility chosen.

For comparison purposes, the average daily cost of private nursing home care in Colorado was around $241 per day, which equates to $7,200 per month. For a home health aide, families can expect to pay around $26.00 per hour. The actual average cost for Adult Day Services was $64 per day.

Financial Assistance for Alzheimer’s Care Services in Colorado Springs

Paying for Alzheimer’s care services is one of the most stressful parts of the entire situation. In many cases, the cost of this alone is enough to financially devastate a family. In Colorado, Medicare will pay for any medically necessary nursing care for a period of 100 days after a person is hospitalized. Medicare will not cover any custodial care or non-skilled care, which includes help with daily living activities.

Medicaid Waivers

In the state of Colorado, the total number of people who had applied for some type of Medical waiver increased a slight amount over the previous three years. These waivers allow those in need, who meet certain financial requirements to receive more assistance in paying for long-term care for elderly individuals who were suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Another option for assistance paying for long-term Alzheimer’s care is to purchase long-term care insurance. However, this is something that must be purchased prior to the diagnosis being made. Otherwise, a person is likely to be turned down for coverage.

CDASS Program

Any elderly individual who is a resident of the state of Colorado and who receives services under or who have qualified for the Elderly, Blind or Disabled Waiver may be able to receive additional assistance from the Colorado Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) program. With this assistance, all care funds are returned to the individual so they can continue living while receiving the care that is necessary.