Richmond Alzheimer’s Care

Over 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s, according to the National Institute of Health. In Virginia, approximately 130,000 of this national total suffer from this cognitive disease. If you are impacted by this progressive disease or know someone who is, then you are well aware of the importance of a solid support system. The National Alzheimer’s Association is one such resource that provides support. Richmond is served by the Greater Richmond Chapter of this organization.

Richmond Facts About Alzheimer’s Caregiving

A 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report issued by the Alzheimer’s Association, estimates that approximately 85% of care for Alzheimer’s patients come from family members. This points to a significant health care issue as the large population of baby boomers gets older. In Richmond, the facts from the report reveal the impact on caregivers:

By the year 2025, the number of people with Alzheimer’s is expected to increase by 46.2%.

Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers devoted 514 million unpaid hours of care in 2014.

These unpaid hours are valued at over $6.25 billion.

Caregivers saw higher health care costs than non-caregivers by a difference of $258 million.

The Greater Richmond Chapter of the National Alzheimer’s Association serves Richmond and over 20 counties and surrounding cities. The organization offers access to support groups, education, and training programs.

The Basics of Alzheimer’s Care

The type and level of care given to an Alzheimer’s patient is as different as the individual. Caregivers have several different options to consider when assessing care specific to the needs of their loved one:

At home care with or without support from a qualified home health aide.

Senior day care facilities that are designed for Alzheimer’s clients.

Assisted living facilities and nursing homes with necessary medical provisions.

Resources like the Richmond Department on Aging, the local Richmond Alzheimer’s organization, and SeniorAdvisor.com can help with identification of viable care solutions.

Costs of Alzheimer’s Care in Richmond

Health care costs associated with forms of dementia were higher “per person” than any other disease, according to the National Institute of Health. This means higher costs of care for patients and caregivers. A 2015 cost care survey by Genworth Financial examined the cost of care across the United States, including Virginia and key cities within the state. Per the survey, the average annual costs in Richmond ranged from a low of $16,900 for adult day care service to a high of $96,991 for nursing home care in a private room. The cost of care at a Richmond assisted living facility or for a home health aide is more than double the cost of adult day care.

Payment Options In Richmond

The costs of Alzheimer’s care can max out any budget. Fortunately, there are several payment options for caregivers. The key to managing costs is figuring out the best care option that falls within budget limitations.

Personal Wages: In Virginia, more than 80% of care for dementia patients is provided by family members, according to the findings of a Virginia State Plan report. Many of these caregivers use personal earnings to cover the cost of care as other options are not available or are insufficient. Costs can be managed by choosing lower cost options such as in-home care or adult day care programs. These care options are on the lower end of the cost scale.

Retirement Plans: An Alzheimer’s patient with a significant work history may have retirement benefits earned from previous employment. This monthly income can help caregivers manage expenses. Choosing the most feasible care options will help the money go further.

Insurance Coverage: In anticipation of care needs, many working adults purchase long term care insurance through an employer or private company. While payment for premiums are an out-of-pocket expense, the insurance pays a significant portion of care costs, including those associated with in-home care support, assisted living and nursing home care.

Veterans Benefits: The Veterans Aid and Attendance Program may provide support to Veterans disabled by Alzheimer’s. Under this program, monetary support is added to existing pension benefits and can be used for Alzheimer’s care. To understand how this program works in Richmond, start with the Virginia Department of Veterans Services to determine eligibility requirements.

Medicaid Programs: Low income persons suffering from Alzheimer’s may be eligible for Medicaid benefits to offset the cost of care. While Medicaid programs vary by state, recipients must typically expend all assets to qualify for benefits such as long-term care assistance. To determine eligibility, start here with Richmond’s Department of Social Services.