In Maine, there have been 269 extra deaths from Alzheimer’s and dementia in 2020 than in comparison with averages over the previous 5 years, in response to a latest report
SCARBOROUGH, Maine — A latest report is offering a take a look at how Mainers dwelling with dementia and Alzheimer’s have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Alzheimer’s Association is reporting 269 extra folks in Maine died from the illness final 12 months in comparison with averages over the previous 5 years. This is 15.5 p.c greater than common.
In 2019, 544 Mainers died of Alzheimer’s illness, in response to the report.
“Part of the illness is you might neglect to clean your fingers,” Drew Wyman, govt director of the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, stated. “You might not be capable to comply with [COVID-19 safety protocols] and proper now the information exhibits us that individuals which have Alzheimer’s and dementia are at greater threat [for COVID-19].”
The report additionally exhibits the increased challenges caregivers of these with Alzheimer’s and dementia face during the pandemic:
– Number of Mainers serving as unpaid household caregivers: 46,000
– Total hours of unpaid care offered: 68,000,000
– Total worth of unpaid care: $1,378,000,000
Folks at the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter need to remind Mainers throughout the state that assistance is at all times out there for them.
“We provide help teams, social engagement actions, and teaching programs for folks dwelling with dementia, care companions, and relations,” Alison Russell, supervisor of training and neighborhood volunteers at the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, stated. “[There is support for] actually anybody who’s navigating dementia or in studying extra all through the state of Maine.”
To study extra about providers out there, head to ALZ.org. There can be a 24/7 Helpline you possibly can name: 800.272.3900.
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