A recent PBS documentary about Alzheimer’s highlights the growing costs linked to caring for individuals diagnosed with the progressive disease. With millions of aging baby boomers at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease, experts in the film warn that a financial “tidal wave” is looming over the country.
“Alzheimer’s: Every Minute Counts” chronicles the struggles of people living with Alzheimer’s, as well as the emotional and financial impact of the chronic disease on their loved ones. Alzheimer’s affects not only the person diagnosed with it, but also the individuals tasked with caring for them.
The one-hour documentary shares the stories of two caregivers who look after their mothers, both of whom have Alzheimer’s. It weaves together personal stories with expert commentary from doctors and researchers against the backdrop of a larger sense of urgency.
While more than five million Americans currently have the disease, that number is projected to increase 55 percent by 2030. Because caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can cost tens of thousands of dollars, some experts predict the disease will soon overwhelm the health care system and lead to the collapse of Medicaid and Medicare.
In order to lessen the impact of the impending crisis, they are calling for an increase in government funding for Alzheimer’s research. Investing in studying the disease will allow researchers to find new ways of treating and preventing it.
In light of such predictions, preparing for the future becomes even more important. The attorneys at Gilfix and La Poll can guide families through the process of planning for long-term care while ensuring finances are protected.
Attorneys Michael Gilfix and Mark R. Gilfix are authors of “Facing the Reality of Long-Term Care.” This timely and practical book can be purchased at www.Gilfix.com.