Geriatrics and all the Challenges (continued)
One of the most staggering issues challenging families today is the high cost of care. Most families have no idea what the cost is until they have to navigate the system and try to find the care that their older family member needs. A recent survey done by AARP estimated that 10 million American adults need help with daily activities, and family members find themselves responsible for 80% of such care giving.
The other bigger challenge is the number of dementia cases that are present today. We are all aware of the staggering numbers of Alzheimer patients but the increasing number of older adults with the various forms of dementia, are causing the families the greatest stress. Seven of 10 individuals with a dementia condition will wander off and become lost some time during their illness, many repeatedly. Families tell us they have no idea when their family member gets into a car if he/she can find his/her way home or not. Families usually need help assessing the risk factors for wandering, including the stage of the illness, anxiety level and agitation present. That is where professionals come in and must be relied on to advice the family.
The latest challenge with the current economic down turn for retirees is hoping that their money doesn’t run out before the end of their life. That is a very real fear. Older adults no longer anticipate early retirements or the prospects of unplanned, lazy days. Boomers, expecting to work well past the age of 65, plan to use their knowledge, talent and time wisely. Staying in the work force longer isn’t just an option any longer, it is a necessity. Careful financial planning isn’t enough today.
Lastly, the other challenge is the government is running out of money for the home and community-based programs that we have been able to provide for the last 30 years. There is an ongoing effort to keep these programs in place and still take care of those older adults over 80 years of age, but what about the next generation of retirees. I am afraid that the challenge will fall on the local communities and individuals who care, to help fill the gap. Most donations are coming from individuals who care and have resources and those that want to be sure these programs are there if they need them in the future. We started a campaign two years ago called, “Give Where You Live”. This was in response to information that I received from the Foundation Center, that most Family Foundations give money to groups outside of their local area. I was surprised to discover that most donors give to their alumni, national organizations, and causes. We are trying to inform family foundations that giving to programs that do direct social services in their community are worth the investment. The time is now!
Dr. Marilyn L. Ditty, Gerontologist
Age Well Senior Services
