Memory Loss

• At the onset of Alzheimer's disease, patients may have only minor difficulties and manifest few visible symptoms. Soon, though, family members and friends will notice unusual behavior or dramatic emotional responses to minor upsets or irritations. Loss of memory that affects function becomes evident. During the early stages of the disease, care is typically provided by family members. There are two types of Alzheimer's disease: early onset and late onset. Early onset Alzheimer's disease typically presents at an early age of 60 years or less. Late onset of Alzheimer's disease is found in patients over 60 years old.
  
  

Is Alzheimer's Disease Hereditary?

• Although Alzheimer’s disease mainly occurs in the elderly, it is not a normal or natural part of aging. Having a close blood relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has developed the disease, increases your risk. If family care is not available, an Alzheimer's patient may be able to continue to function, living at home, with the help of a live-in companion. The companion provides help with bathing and meals, along with companionship and emotional support. Caregiver's salaries depend on the amount of care required, the employer and the geographical location. Live-in caregivers normally receive free living quarters, the use of an automobile and meals, plus a salary comparable to the local minimum wage.
  
  

Severe Symptoms

• People with severe AD can no longer recognize family members, understand oral or written language and are unable to accomplish the basic activities of daily living, such as bathing, eating and dressing. A patient's condition may be further complicated by chronic illness, physical handicaps, and loss of vision or hearing. In cases of severe Alzheimer's disease, patients require around-the-clock care.
  
  There are more than 1.2 million Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers in the state of Texas. According to a study released by the Alzheimer’s Association, in 2010 these caregivers provided 1.38 million hours of unpaid care. The cost of this care is valued at nearly $16.5 billion. Eight other states in America have unpaid caregiver contributions in excess of $6 billion dollars a year.
  
  

Around-the-Clock Care

• Providing adequate care for an Alzheimer’s patient living in the community or in institutions is expensive. "Health Affairs" reports that the cost of care for an Alzheimer’s patient in California in 1993 was approximately $47,000 a year. Since that time, salaries and the cost of institutional care have risen dramatically. Currently, elder care job boards and online forums report in-home caregivers nationwide receive from $16 to $25 an hour. Because of the high cost of home care, family members often provide the majority of care, hiring a caregiver to provide the family member an occasional respite.
  
  

Alzheimer's Care Registered Nurses

• The Alzheimer's Association provides vital information about caring for persons afflicted with the disease. The site provides important references, resources and links to caregivers around the country. The salary of an Alzheimer's patient caregiver depends on the extent of care provided. If a registered nurse is required to monitor vital signs and medications, the United States Department of Labor reports as of May 2008, the median annual wages for registered nurses were $62,450. The lowest 10 percent of wage earners made $43,410 per year, and the highest 10 percent received $92,240. The majority of nurses caring for Alzheimer’s patients are placed by home care nursing staff firms and work on rotating shifts.