Elder Care: Study Reveals Correlation Between Later Retirement and Lowered Risk of Alzheimer’s

In the News,Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect,Personal Injury - August 9, 2013 by Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates

 

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care

Prevention: Later Retirement

Seniors who retire later in life may be less likely to develop Alzheimer’s. A study has linked later retirement to a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s.  This is compelling news to the aging community, many of whom will experience the disease in the coming years.
Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Roughly 5.2 million Americans currently live with the disease, with 5 million over the age of 65 diagnosed and 200,000 suffering from a early-onset form of the disease.1   Researchers predict the number to reach 16 million by the middle of the century. [2]

The research, based on records of people who were living and retired for an average of 12 years by December 2010, also showed that for each additional year a person worked there was an increased delay in the presence of Alzheimer’s.[1]

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia

Dean Hartley, Director of Science Initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association, called the research a starting point for understanding how delaying retirement might guard against dementia.1 The studies indicate a correlation, though no causation will be shown until more research is done.
Hartley states that imaging studies and measurable biochemical changes could help map out changes to better understand and prevent the disease.1
Caring for a nursing home resident who has Alzheimer’s requires sensitivity, patience and in-depth training.  Those who suffer from Alzheimer’s often become argumentative, confused and unpredictable.  It is crucial for staff to be receptive to these residents’ fluctuating emotions and behavior.  Alzheimer’s disease is a medical condition to which nursing homes must accommodate.  Staff should be well-trained to respond to the needs posed by residents with Alzheimer’s. If you feel a nursing home has hired staff members who are not properly trained to care for your loved one who has Alzheimer’s, contact our office today and speak with one of our experienced nursing home abuse attorneys.

Other Information:

References

1. “Later retirement linked to lower risk of Alzheimer’s, study shows”, Chicago Tribune, July 15, 2013