Alzheimer’s and Dementia – Silent Killers

A staggering 1 in 3 seniors dies with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia, says a new report that highlights the impact the mind-destroying disease is having on the rapidly aging population.

One in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. That is a rather sobering statistic. Given these numbers, it only makes sense to make your health care and legal plans now while there is still time.

This new statistic – hardly alone in a field of such startling stats – comes from a new report by the Alzheimer’s Association. This was discussed in a recent article in The Washington Post titled “Beyond memory loss, report finds 1 in 3 seniors dies with dementia that can impede other care.” Beyond these statistics is the realization that these conditions have a likelihood to impede other care and render a loved one vulnerable to further conditions. For example, pneumonia can be caused by poor motor skills (difficulty swallowing), complications to medication, and even the inability to understand and communicate regarding one’s health care matters.

All told, Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death, given that it is listed as the underlying condition on death certificates.

So, what should you do now? Realize that Alzheimer’s and dementia are very real and insidious threats to the health and well-being of yourself or your senior loved ones. Get your ducks in a row now, especially when it comes to advance health directives and estate plans.

This is not a do-it-yourself program either. Make sure you engage competent legal counsel to help you navigate the applicable laws.

For more information please visit my website: www.millsestateplanning.com.

Reference: The Washington Post (March 18, 2013) “Beyond memory loss, report finds 1 in 3 seniors dies with dementia that can impede other care”