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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – WATERTOWN, Mass., Aug. 25, 2011 — Hurricane Irene poses a special threat to some of the area’s most vulnerable citizens – those with Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
“In an emergency, people with Alzheimer’s may become separated from caregivers who are familiar with their condition and unique needs,” said James Wessler, President/CEO of The Alzheimer’s Association, MA/NH Chapter. “Families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease face increased stress due to the disruption in their lives, and in some instances, people may find themselves in the role of caregiver for the first time and may not know how to care for someone with Alzheimer’s.”
More than 120,000 in Massachusetts, and 22,000 in New Hampshire, have Alzheimer’s; about 70 percent of them are cared for at home. Stress and confusion for people with Alzheimer’s can potentially lead to risky and distressing behaviors, such as wandering, agitation and emotional outbursts, according to experts at the Alzheimer’s Association.
“Although a direct impact from a hurricane is a relatively rare event in the Northeast, we must remember that disaster can strike at any time,” said Wessler. “Our hope is that the impact of this storm will be small, but advanced planning can go a long way to minimize the possibility of serious crises for those with Alzheimer’s, their families and caregivers.”
The Alzheimer’s Association recommends caregivers be prepared for emergencies such as Hurricane Irene:
* Update and keep accessible key health documents, and contact information such as doctor, prescriptions, and emergency services.
* Call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 for help with your disaster preparedness or help during the aftermath.
* Register your family member with Alzheimer’s for MedicAlert + Safe Return, a 24-hour nationwide emergency response service for individuals with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia who wander or have a medical emergency. Registration can be done by telephone by calling 888.572.8566.
* Review American Red Cross tips for seniors and those with disabilities on their website.
“We hope that Irene will pass us by, but these are good steps to take so that caregivers are prepared for a future incident as well,” Wessler said, adding “no one certainly expected an earthquake this week.”
The Alzheimer’s Association, with headquarters in Watertown, has regional offices in Springfield, Raynham, and Worcester, MA and Bedford and Lebanon, NH. The Alzheimer’s Association provides services and programs for those with Alzheimer’s, family and professional caregivers in the form of support groups, a 24/7 Helpline, care consultation, advocacy efforts, research funding and education programs. Information is available at www.alz.org/MANH.
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