The Role of Senior Centers in Mitigating Alzheimer's and Other Forms of Dementia
Date
2019-01
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Institute for Public Administration
Abstract
Dementia, a common term associated with memory loss, causes problems
with an individual’s memory, thinking, and behavior to the point where it
affects day-to-day life and social functioning. Alzheimer’s, the most common
and familiar form of dementia, is becoming more prevalent among the older
adult population. Of all individuals diagnosed with dementia in the United
States, Alzheimer’s accounts for sixty to eighty percent of the cases.
Understanding the severity and impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms
of dementia on older adults and their family members is crucial for policy
makers, stakeholders, supportive services, and medical professionals due to
the implications on national, state, and local governments, health and social
services, nonprofits, and communities. To address national demographic
trends, it is important to understand the appropriate programs and services
necessary to prevent, treat, and evaluate Alzheimer’s, as well as the large
impact the disease has on U.S. healthcare costs. With definitive ways to address
prevention and a cure, it is vital that this disease become better known.
Description
Keywords
Dementia, Alzheimer's, Aging populations, Aging, Senior citizens, Senior centers