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 
