San Francisco Alzheimer’s Care

In the next 14 years, the number of people in the state of California affected by Alzheimer’s disease is projected to double. Currently, there are 588,208 people over the age of 55 and who are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease in the state, and 19,706 in San Francisco alone. There are also 1.1 million people caring for those living with this disease, which accounts for about 11 percent of all caregivers in the U.S.

While these numbers are a bit staggering, there are more resources available today than ever before providing help for those with the disease, as well as a person’s caregiver and physician. In fact, the Northern California chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers education and information on all aspects of this disease.

Stats and Facts about San Francisco and California Alzheimer’s Cases

The fact is, Alzheimer’s will not discriminate based on gender, race or any other factor. It affects people from all walks of life. Consider the statistics here.

By 2030, the number of people living with Alzheimer’s in California will reach 1.1 million.

Because of the population that is aging rapidly, the total number of Asians and Latinos who are living with the disease will triple by the year 2030.

One in every eight Californians who are now 55 and older will develop Alzheimer’s disease.

One in six people over 55 will develop dementia.

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

Types of Alzheimer’s Care Options

Families are providing about three-quarters of the unpaid care for individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Other options for care include in-home, professional care providers. These individuals ensure that those suffering from Alzheimer’s receive the care they need while remaining in their own home.

However, there are also memory care facilities available that provide care for those suffering from this disease. These memory care communities provide constant monitoring services for those who suffer from this condition, ensuring they do not become injured and ensuring they have mentally stimulating activities to help reduce the effects of the symptoms of this disorder.

Cost of Care for Alzheimer’s in San Francisco

According to a recent study, the long-term care for those in California, including San Francisco, is increasing much more quickly than other areas across the nation. There are currently 44 assisted living facilities in the community of San Francisco that provide Alzheimer’s care. On average, the cost to have a loved one in this facility is around $4,000 per month. This average cost is for a single-occupancy apartment and includes the cost of rent, utilities, dining, transportation, and housekeeping.

The cost of this care can be reduced significantly by sharing a room with another person, or choosing a facility that does not offer as many amenities for residents.

Tips to Pay for Quality Alzheimer’s Care in San Francisco

The cost of the care that is needed is largely based on how it is provided. For example, in-home care and assisted living costs can vary greatly based on what is needed and how much care is required.

There are some options to help pay for these long-term care costs.

Non-Medicaid Assistance

There are two assistance programs in California for seniors that do not require that a person qualifies for Medicaid. One is the ADCRC, or Alzheimer’s Day Care Resource Centers, which provides assistance in a number of areas for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s regardless of their financial assets or income.

Another option is IHSS, or In-Home Supportive Services, which is available for people who are eligible for Medicaid, as well as those who are not.

Medi-Cal Waivers for Seniors

In California, Medicaid is referred to as Medi-Cal. This is a program that assists elderly and disabled individuals who have limited resources and incomes. There are both asset and income qualifications that must be met to receive these benefits.

Other forms of Assistance

There are some federal and non-profit options for assistance, as well. This includes programs for veterans and even reverse mortgages that can help to cover the often extensive costs related to long-term care for those in San Francisco who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.

Understanding the options that are available will help anyone dealing with caring for a person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and pay for the care they need.