Uncle Henry repeats the same stories over and over again. Aunt Alice forgets names. We all may know someone who is struggling with memory issues. Understanding the types of aging problems and how our health services support essential care is critical.
The United States Census noted that about 1 in 6 people in the United States were age 65 and over. In Monroe County 20% of residents are senior citizens. Our baby-boomer group is growing faster than at any other time in our country's history.
With this elderly population comes new concerns. Estimates vary, but experts report more than 7 million people age 65 or older have some form of dementia. Alzheimer's, the most serious affliction, affects an estimated 180,000 seniors throughout our state. However, before labeling someone as impaired, it is essential to know what each of these medical terms mean.
Having trouble recalling words, difficulty learning new things? Not to panic...this is a normal process even in healthy adults. Beginning in our 50's, our brain begins to change and "shrink." Working memory that depends on the rapid processing of new information and problem-solving decreases with age. Measures like exercising, eating healthy, staying mentally active, and socializing can help keep the aging brain in shape.
Of more concern is Mild Cognitive Disorder, a condition that impairs not only memory but organizing and judgement skills. The symptoms are not as severe as Alzheimer's disease. There may be physical causes. Some of the problems can be managed or reversed. There are new drugs on the horizon that can slow the decline. Some adults with this level of impairment develop Alzheimer's, while others do not.
Alzheimer's is different than the natural changes in the brain. Small abnormalities, amyloid plaques, and tau tangles that form in the brain are the markers of Alzheimer's Disease.
Over time, the symptoms get worse. There is much research being done; however, currently there is no cure.
The national average cost of Alzheimer's care is $5,350 per month. The cost in assisted living communities is approximately 20% to 30% more. The burden of ongoing treatment costs and long-term care can be devasting to families. Insurance may not cover expenses. Wading through currently available government health programs and supported services is confusing. Congress continues to debate major overhauls for a wide range of government health programs that will impact benefits. One change is to add "time limits" or "lifetime caps." This proposal is vague and suggests that the Medicaid protections could be eliminated or pared down. Another proposal leans toward moving people to policies sold by private health insurance companies.
We must stay informed about legislation. An excellent resource is the Monroe County Commission on Aging. This agency provides links to a wealth of services promoting health, dignity, and independence of Monroe County residents sixty years of age and older. https://www.co.monroe.mi.us/192/Services. Senior Centers throughout the county offer an array of activities that promote healthy aging.
So, is there light at the end of this dark tunnel? Much research is being conducted on all forms of mental decline. New treatments and some promising drugs are on the horizon. Both ongoing treatment and extended care require the safety net of insurance. No matter if you are young or old, know your representatives' views on health care issues and their commitment to supporting Medicare and Medicaid. Make your concerns known. We are all aging. Those facing dementia and other debilitating illness need access to the best treatment options. With secure heath scaffolds, we can throughout our years contribute to our communities and families.
-- Mary Bullard is a member of is a member of Stronger Together Huddle, a group engaged in supporting and promoting the common good. She is a retired librarian and resides in Lambertville. She can be reached at mcneil102@icloud.com.