Ohio Department of Aging

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More than 250,000 Ohioans suffer from Alzheimer's Disease, a progressive, mentally and physically disabling brain disorder that has no known cause or cure. Because victims eventually become unable to care for themselves, the cost of long-term care associated with Alzheimer's is staggering - estimated at more than $80 billion per year nationally!

Much of that care is provided by family members and friends. The daily care of a person with Alzheimer's disease can be challenging and require many personal sacrifices to ensure a loved one remains safe and comfortable. The Department of Aging works with Area Agencies on Aging, the Ohio chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and other organizations to support Ohioans caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's disease.

The Alzheimer's Respite Care Program provides temporary care for an Alzheimer's patient. This gives the regular caregiver a short break to take care of their own needs, refresh and recharge, so that they can be a better caregiver. Respite care can come in several different forms:

• A home care worker can visit the home of an Alzheimer's patient to allow the regular caregiver to run errands or take a break.
• The person with Alzheimer's can spend a morning or afternoon in an adult day center.
• The individual with Alzheimer's can spend a night in a hospital or nursing home
• The caregiver can attend support groups, caregiver training or family care planning meetings.

To find out what respite services are available where you live contact your Area Agency on Aging. The skilled professionals there coordinate innovative respite care and support services to relieve the stresses and responsibilities that accompany constant caregiving, and keep those afflicted in the home as long as possible.

Help is also available for the families of Alzheimer's victims through the Alzheimer's Association, which provides support services including: counseling, referral services, family support groups, community education and awareness, advocacy and research.