Currently, 69,000 Kentuckians have Alzheimer’s disease. While this disease affects memory, it also destroys brain cells that are responsible for tasks that allow individuals to remain independent. Confusion, misperception, poor judgment, and paranoia can become apparent as the disease progresses. Alzheimer’s disease can last anywhere from three to twenty years and is fatal. Caregivers must step in to assist in caring for their loved ones, and this care includes legal and financial decisions. What rights do caregivers have? Who can make health care decisions for the person with the disease?
In 2016 an estimated 18.1 billion hours of unpaid care was provided to people with Alzheimer’s and related dementias. However, caregiving costs more than a caregiver’s time. In 2016, the financial costs to all payers for the care of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias in the United States was estimated to be $236 billion. It is estimated that family caregivers spend more than $5000 a year caring for someone with Alzheimer’s. For some families that means missing a vacation, but for others it may mean missing a meal. Families often do not know how to begin planning for the costs associated with caring for a person with dementia.
On Tuesday, April 11, 2017 the Alzheimer’s Association will provide a Legal and Financial workshop that will give valuable information to families and individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Issues such as powers of attorney, guardianship, and handling the finances and property of a person with dementia will be discussed as well as some assistance programs you may benefit from. Attorney, Kristie Goff, from Appalachian Research and Defense Fund of Kentucky will be our speaker.
The program will be held from 11:00am-12:00pm at the Lawrence County Extension Office, Louisa, KY. Registration is required. Please contact 1-800-272-3900.
(program is free of charge)
About the Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. It is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research. The Association’s mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
April L. Stauffer, MS
Community Outreach Coordinator
Alzheimer’s Association
859-266-5283, Ext. 8179
24-Hour Helpline 800-272-3900
