As the baby boomer generation continues to age, it’s clear that Alzheimer’s disease is placing a strain on the general population. Shockingly, when looking at the most current stats, deaths related to this degenerative disease have rose 55 percent.<\/p>\n
Although rising rates and associated deaths are considering to be a major public health concern, it’s clear that family members are also experiencing the heavy burden associated with caregiving roles. We’re reaching a point where something dire needs to happen \u2014 as this current issue continues to grow.<\/p>\n
Report \u2014 Alzheimer’s Mortality Rates, 1999-2014<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n Based on a report, released on May 26th<\/sup>, 2017, from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention<\/a>, it’s clear that Alzheimer’s death rates are at an all-time high. Currently the sixth leading cause of death within the United States, this disease requires constant care within the final stages of development.<\/span><\/p>\n Examining the deaths of Alzheimer’s patients from 1999-2014, when age-adjusted, an increase of 54.5 percent was recorded. In 1999, there were 16.5 deaths per 100,000, which rose to 25.4 deaths per 100,000 in 2014. When ages were not adjusted based on the 2000 standard population, death rates had increased even further. <\/span><\/p>\n Although most individuals passed away within a long-term care facility, the percentage who died within a medical facility decreased from 14.7 percent in 1999, to just 6.6 percent in 2014. While looking at the percentage of patients who died at home \u2014 well, this rate increased from 13.9 percent in 1999 to a shocking 24.9 percent in 2014. <\/span><\/p>\n The combination of increased home-care and rising death rates, showcases the level of strain placed on those who are providing unpaid care. For those who have been ‘thrown into’ this role, would likely benefit from key interventions regarding respite care and education. This would not only reduce burden, but also improve care for those with Alzheimer’s. <\/span><\/p>\n The data as discussed above, was collected from the National Vital Statistics System, after reviewing death certificates from 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia. While focusing on age-specific rates:<\/span><\/p>\n What Does It All Mean?<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n At this point, the greatest risk factor for Alzheimer’s is age. As the population continues to age, based on the baby boomer population, we will likely continue to see an increase in Alzheimer’s-related death rates. By 2050, current rates of Alzheimer’s are believed to quadruple. <\/span><\/p>\n It’s obvious that r<\/span>ising rates of Alzheimer’s directly influence the individuals involved \u2014 but we also need to look at societal and financial costs. After all:<\/span><\/p>\n While focusing on possible modifiable factors, it appears that obesity and fewer years of education can increase your risk<\/b>. <\/span><\/p>\n Focusing on the big picture, until we identify a way to slow down the progression of this disease \u2014 or find a cure, this will continue to be a a top public health priority. At this time, this disease requires bold, immediate action \u2014 so what can we expect in 2017?<\/span><\/p>\n Health Priorities Associated with Alzheimer’s for 2017 <\/b><\/span><\/p>\n As discussed by the Alzheimer’s Association<\/a>, there are three key areas of focus for the year 2017, in the hopes that we’ll increase some level of control over this major public health concern. At this time, the top priorities include, but are not limited to:<\/span><\/p>\n\n
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