The Alzheimer’s Association today released its 2012 “Facts and Figures” report on Alzheimer’s care and patients. The figures are staggering. In brief:
Currently an estimated 5.4 million Americans have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. The number is projected to rise to 16 million by 2050, unless a cure or preventative treatment is found.
In Florida, by 2025 it is estimated there will be close to 600,000 people over the age of 65 with Alzheimer’s – a 64% increase over the year 2000.
At present there are 15 million Americans acting as caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients.
Alzheimer’s Disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.
Alzheimer’s Disease is the only cause of death among the top ten that cannot be prevented or cured.
In 2012, the costs of caring for the Alzheimer’s patients in our country is estimated at $200 BILLION, which includes $140 BILLION in Medicare and Medicaid costs.
To read about how you may be able to pay for the long-term care costs of a loved one who has Alzheimer’s Disease, click here.
To read the full “Facts and Figures” report and sign a petition requesting that the federal government make fighting Alzheimer’s a priority, click here.
