Multi-Therapeutic Intervention
Theory and Statistics
Problem Analysis/Background
Updated March 5, 2005
In 1906, Dr. Alois Alzheimer discovered the dementia known as Alzheimer’s. This disease is a progressive, degenerative, irreversible brain disease recognized as one of the most devastating maladies of our time. Victims of the disease are eventually rendered incapable of caring for themselves, and death is the inevitable result. The long-term nature of this disease and the demanding care required often causes unbelievable hardship and stress to the caregiver in relation to physical, emotional and financial well-being.
The national organization that advocates for the cure of this disease is the Alzheimer’s Association. In 2004, the association reports that there are “approximately 4.5 million Americans” that have Alzheimer’s disease. This number is anticipated to grow to "16 million by 2050" as the baby boomer generation ages (Alzheimer’s Association, 2004). Currently, there are several preventative methods that exist for this disease that are either homeopathic or pharmacological. These methods can slow down the progression of the disease if they are found in the early stages. Other modes of treatment include providing physical, speech and occupational therapy, as well as education through counseling and direct support for both the patient and caregiver. The long-term side effects of these interventions may slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s by 2-5 years, keeping a person fairly independent through the course of their disease. For those who in the late or severe stage of Alzheimer’s, there is no existing preventative method.
In our society, this disease has been regarded as having no cure, no help, and no hope. This statement is a false proposition as the world of medical technology is improving and more comprehensive and accessible education and support are being provided. With these advances, the goal of managing and providing successful interventions is becoming more of a reality.
As of March 2004, older adults comprise 75% of Brevard County’s total population. (Florida Department of Elder Affairs). With such an already large and growing population, there is an increased demand for a higher level of support and intervention. This disease is impacting all aspects of society including long-term care and employers of those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. It is costing American businesses over “$61 billion a year” with “36.5 billion” covering related costs to decreases in productivity and increases in absenteeism of employees who must take time off work to care for their ailing loved ones. (Alzheimer’s Association, 2004).
The Alzheimer’s Association (2004) reports that more than “7 out of 10 people with Alzheimer’s Disease live at home” and “75% of their care is provided by family and friends.” This care is costing families on an average, $12,500 per year. With such a large percentage of those being cared for at home, there is an increased risk of caregiver burden. This burden or stress can create an environment where elder abuse, neglect or exploitation is more likely to occur. Caregivers need to be given proper respite and support to deter the onset of an abusive situation. In Brevard County, elder abuse has increased by 68% between 1998 and 2003 (Florida Department of Elder Affairs). These statistics show that strong support networks have to be built within the community to relieve caregivers of burden and stress associated with their role.
Another major consideration within this issue is meeting the needs of an aging baby boomer population. This group will be an additional strain to the human service and healthcare world. The Administration on Aging (AOA) reports that by 2010 there will be “39.4 million people” over the age of 65. With baby boomers aging, it is expected that there will be over “69 million” people over the age of 65 by 2030 and that by 2050, that number will be up to “79 million” (AOA, 2004). These numbers will put more demand on the system of service delivery and will also be a push to provide a higher level of support and education to our growing aging population. It is important that there are services available that provide a meaningful intervention and that can meet the rising demand that the future will present.
The reality of Alzheimer’s is that it is a slowly progressing disease that leads to breakdowns in remembering loved ones, the ability to perform daily tasks such as how to eat and dress, and how to talk. On a day to day basis, caregivers experience the frustration and sadness that accompanies this disease knowing their loved one is trapped in a body it cannot escape. The current interventions that exist in our society have been more concerned with the care recipients’ needs, with little emphasis on the caregiver. Caregivers are an under-served segment of the Alzheimer’s population, a group that deserves the opportunity to be offered appropriate educational support and intervention. Our goal is to not only serve those afflicted with Alzheimer’s but to give special attention to caregiver burden with the goal of preserving the family unit and the quality of life of the patient.
A United Way Agency 
