Alzheimer's disease and the effects on family members Essay

Alzheimer's disease and the effects on family members - Essay Example There is not a specific cause, but has several risk factors such as age, family history and inflammation in the brain. Scientists are investigating if environment, education and diet are risk factors for the disease. Alzheimer's disease is named after the German physician, Alois Alzheimer, who discovered the changes in a 51 year old woman's brain tissue that had passed away from a strange mental illness. Most AD patients live 8 to 10 years after being diagnosed, but some can live as many as 20 years (NIA). Women usually develop Alzheimer's more than men because women live longer. The family role of care giving is becoming more prominent on account that long-term facilities are so costly and nursing homes have negative stigmas. The cost of family care giving averages about $77,447 and the cost for long-term care runs about $5,000.00 a month. The impact of Alzheimer's disease takes a toll on family members because family caregiver's health begins to decline. Research shows that family members who provide care to individuals with chronic or disabling conditions are themselves at risk. Emotional, mental, and physical health problems arise.