AOCOPM 2024 Midyear Educational Conference-346719

346719 - Article 12

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The presentation by Ouida Collins, MD MPH, at the American Osteopathic College of Occupational and Preventive Medicine Conference, 2024, addresses Alzheimer's disease (AD) as a generational concern. It enhances the understanding of Alzheimer's disease's impact on family dynamics, finances, and daily functioning, while equipping healthcare professionals with skills to discuss dementia diagnosis and management with patients and their families.<br /><br />Epidemiology is emphasized as the study of the prevalence, determinants, and prevention strategies of diseases like Alzheimer's. Alzheimer's is characterized as a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder, leading to intellectual impairments due to beta-amyloid plaques and tau protein tangles. Key risk factors include age, genetics, and family history, with about six million Americans currently diagnosed with the disease.<br /><br />The presentation highlights the significant role of grandparents in childcare, noting that millions of grandchildren in the U.S. receive care from grandparents, who may themselves suffer from Alzheimer's. This dynamic raises critical questions about caregiving roles when grandparents' memory fails, affecting family responsibilities and financial burdens.<br /><br />Economic aspects of Alzheimer’s are further scrutinized, predicting a substantial increase in cases among Baby Boomers and Generation X by 2029, with an expected health care cost of at least $172 billion. The high costs associated with skilled care, assisted living, and daycare stress the financial strain on families.<br /><br />The talk calls for action through education, research, early intervention, and supporting both patients and caregivers. It emphasizes preventive strategies and the importance of healthcare providers in facilitating these efforts. Overall, the presentation underscores the multifaceted challenges of Alzheimer's disease, advocating for a comprehensive approach to manage its widespread impact.

Keywords

Alzheimer's disease

family dynamics

healthcare professionals

epidemiology

neurodegenerative disorder

caregiving roles

economic impact

preventive strategies

early intervention

generational concern