As we grow older, we become more susceptible to a variety of illnesses and diseases, and one of them is Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s estimates, more than 5.1 seniors suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and unfortunately, that number is expected to increase as baby boomers, or those born between 1946 and 1964, age.
Some Worrisome Statistics
Back in mid-2015, a study that was presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference created some buzz concerning baby boomers and Alzheimer’s disease. It can be easy to underestimate the numbers, but just how widespread will Alzheimer’s disease be among baby boomers? Well, this recent study suggests that by 2050, more than 28 million baby boomers will develop this disease. Even by 2040, 10 million baby boomers will have developed this disease, which as shown above, is twice the amount of seniors who currently have this disease.
But that wasn’t the only thing the study predicted, however. As the percentage of baby boomers diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease increases – going from 1.2 percent to 50.1 percent between 2020 and 2050 – so will the cost of Medicare. While Medicare could cost more than $11 billion for those with Alzheimer’s in 2020, this amount could be as high as $328 billion in 2040.
So why exactly does 2050 seem to be the big year in this study? 2050 is the year when all baby boomers will be 85 years or older, and the fact that one’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases with age is one explanation for this study’s projections of the correlation between baby boomers and Alzheimer’s disease.
What You Can Do
These startling statistics concerning baby boomers and Alzheimer’s disease are certainly worrisome, especially since there are currently no treatments available to delay, stop or cure Alzheimer’s disease. However, seeking immediate help should you notice any of these symptoms in your loved one is key in seeking treatment and having enough time to plan for the future:
- Memory loss
- Having difficulty planning or solving problems
- Having difficulty completing daily tasks or other familiar activities
- Getting easily confused on the date, time or place
- Having difficulty understanding images or judging distances
- Facing problems with speaking or writing
- Misplacing objects or being unable to retrace his/her steps
- Poor judgment or decision-making skills
- Withdrawal from work, hobbies or social activities
- Changes in personality or mood
It’s also important to be on the lookout for any of the warning signs outlined above since early diagnosis could make a big difference in one’s condition. In fact, another study has shown that with early diagnosis, you can actually reverse the signs of Alzheimer’s disease through the following rigorous daily regiment:
- Remove processed foods and simple carbohydrates from your diet
- Take probiotics and coconut oil
- Exercise
- Get at least eight hours of sleep per night
Participants in this study saw a reversal in their symptoms and even showed signs of more cognitive acuity, but be sure to speak with your doctor about any of your concerns, especially if you notice any symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.
