A new, national survey sheds light on the difficulties felt by America's Alzheimer's disease (AD) caregivers. Results from a survey of 524 non-professional AD caregivers illustrate that memory loss and confusion, which are cognitive symptoms, in addition to personal safety are the greatest concerns related to the progression of their loved one's AD. In fact, 67 percent of AD caregivers surveyed said changes in cognitive symptoms were among their main concerns. The survey was conducted by Harris Interactive in September 2010 for Eisai Inc. and Pfizer Inc. in partnership with the Alzheimer's Foundation of America (AFA).
As AD—a progressive brain disease typically characterized by three stages: mild, moderate and severe—changes over time, caregivers and their healthcare professionals may wish to regularly discuss modifications in lifestyle and treatment. According to the survey, the majority of Alzheimer's caregivers are proactive participants in the dialogue and decision-making around their loved one's disease, and 75 percent of those surveyed were either "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with the communication they have with their loved one's health care professional. For the remaining 25 percent who are either "somewhat" or "not at all satisfied," there may be room for improvement in this dialogue.
"These survey results reveal that changes in cognition as the disease progresses were an important concern among caregivers," said Eric J. Hall, president and CEO of AFA. "We encourage caregivers and health care professionals to discuss these changes and any others during regular visits."
"AD caregivers are typically the first to notice when their loved one's symptoms are becoming worse and whether the disease may be progressing to the next stage, which is why caregivers are essential partners in disease management discussions," said Barry W. Rovner, MD, director of the Division of Geriatric Psychiatry and professor in the departments of Neurology and Psychiatry at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. "In the face of this devastating chronic and progressive disease, it is important for AD caregivers to know about the available educational resources, support networks and treatments in order to enhance these discussions at all stages of the disease."
Key Survey Findings
Following are results illustrating the difficulties faced by Alzheimer's caregivers, concerns about disease progression and discussions with health care professionals, highlighting differences between men and women. Of note, 173 men and 351 women were surveyed, which reflects the overall unpaid AD caregiver population in which caregivers are more likely to be female.
Difficulties Faced by Caregivers:
Concerns About Disease Progression:
Discussions with Health Care Professionals:
As a caregiver, especially when caring for a loved one with AD, you need to take steps to look out for not only his or her well-being, but your own well-being as well, to avoid caregiver burnout and the health issues that can cause. Read more about on Alzheimer's