In 2014, more than $100 million in federal money was spent researching Alzheimer’s disease in an attempt to find a cure. However, surveys indicate that the majority of both dementia patients and the professional caregivers that care for them would rather that more of that money was earmarked for a more immediate purpose: helping provide care for those affected by the disease. It makes a lot of sense; Alzheimer’s patients are likely not going to be impacted in any positive way if a cure were to be found tomorrow. But, by giving additional support to those that are already affected, a very real and tangible sense of relief could be felt, even if no cure is ever found.
The goal of this study was to see how those most heavily affected by Alzheimer’s thought that federal spending should be directed. Right now, ten times more money is going toward research than it is to helping with long term care. And while finding a cure is high on the agenda for those affected, more immediate needs are considered to be a higher priority. It’s hoped that a balance of care and research can make people happier and healthier now, while also making more progress toward preventing or curing the disease in the future.
Of the top five responses in what federal money should be used for, financial assistance with respite care and short term care was at the top of the list. Coming in at number two on the list was better financial resources for long term care and aging in place alternatives such as in-home care. Research and finding a cure came in at number three. Four was better education for families, especially younger family members that may never have had to care for someone else before. And number five was increased advocacy and awareness in the general community to help people better understand dementia and to reduce some of the stigma associated with it. As you can see, finding a cure is important, but a more immediate help is needed more right now in order to help people make it through their daily lives. Care does exist, but much more can be done. The money exists to help, it’s just being directed toward other directions.
Finding a cure for Alzheimer’s is a lofty goal and it is one that should be pursued. Although it’s important, it shouldn’t have to be achieved by sacrificing the quality of care for those that are impacted right now. If that money is not coming from federal sources, then it’s up to private sources to help. Professional care services are a big help in this regard, as is getting emergency training yourself so that you would be able to respond appropriately if an elderly loved one were to need it. Most importantly, you should be looking for a way to provide a loving and compassionate environment for your older family members where they will be safe and as healthy as possible. Going with an in-home care service that has professionally trained caregivers is an easy and cost effective way to do this yourself.
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