Columbus Alzheimer’s Care

An estimated 5 million Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s, according to the National Institute of Health. In Ohio, approximately 210,000 of that total are living with the disease. If you are impacted by this cognitive disease, or know someone who is, then you know how important it is to have readily available resources to help you cope. The National Alzheimer’s Association is a resource that provides support to patients and caregivers. Columbus is served by the Central Ohio Chapter.

Ohio Alzheimer’s Facts

According to a 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report by the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 9 of the senior population age 65 and older suffer from Alzheimer’s. This is indicative of a significant problem as baby boomers are growing older. Facts from this report provides details specific to Ohio regarding Alzheimer’s prevalence and the impact on caregivers:

By the year 2025, the number of people with Alzheimer’s is expected to increase by 19%.

Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers dedicated 675 million unpaid hours of care in 2014.

These hours by unpaid caregivers are valued at over $8.2 billion.

Caregivers saw higher health care costs than non-caregivers by a difference of $382 million.

Given these eye-opening statistics, the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s Association serves 14 counties across the central part of the state. The Franklin County office serves Columbus residents and provides support, educational programs and many other resources.

Alzheimer’s Care Basics

Because every individual affected by Alzheimer’s is different and the range of symptoms and care needs vary, one size does not fit all when it comes to care. There are different options to consider, when assessing care needs:

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.

Finding the best care option for persons affected by Alzheimer’s can be difficult. The Ohio Department of Aging, the Central Ohio Alzheimer’s organization, and resources like SeniorAdvisor.com can help caregivers identify care alternatives and solutions that meet specific needs and situations.

The Cost of Alzheimer’s Care In Ohio and Columbus

As reported by the National Institute of Heath, health care costs associated with forms of dementia were higher “per person” than any other disease. This translates into higher costs for caregivers. In 2015, Fortune 500 company, Genworth Financial, released a cost of care survey covering Ohio and key cities within the state. Per the survey, the average annual costs in Columbus ranged from a low of $19,500 for adult day care service to a high of $75,920 for nursing home care in a private room.

Ohio Alzheimer’s Care Payment Options

As the costs of care for Alzheimer’s patients are on the rise, paying for quality care can break most any budget. There are various payment options available to caregivers. The key to managing costs is to determine which of these options can fund the level of care needed.

Personal Savings: Many caregivers use personal income to supplement or cover the cost of care because there are no other options. In this case, 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 spectrum.

Retirement Funds: An Alzheimer’s patient with a solid work history may have retirement benefits earned from previous employment. This monthly income can help caregivers manage the cost of care. To make these dollars stretch, the caregiver must decide on the most feasible care option.

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

Veterans Benefits: Veterans may be eligible to receive support from the VA Aid and Attendance Program. Under this program, support may be available as an additive dollar amount to existing pension benefits. This additional money can be used to cover the cost of resources needed for Alzheimer’s care. Contact the Ohio Department of Veterans Services to determine eligibility requirements.

Medicaid: Medicaid benefits are an option for Alzheimer’s care. Typically to qualify, recipients must have expended most all assets and have the inability to pay for the long term care associated with the disability. To determine Pittsburgh Medicaid options and eligibility, start with the Ohio Department of Medicaid.