Wednesday, July 9, 2014: 3:30 PM-4:30 PM
Primary Presenter:
Stephen A. Leedy, MD, FAAHPM
Learning Objectives:
1. Describe the impact of dementia upon American society in the next 20 years
2. Explain the value of palliative care in helping patients and families living with dementia
3. Articulate specific treatment strategies in the palliative management of dementia
Since January of 2011, ten-thousand Baby Boomers have been turning 65 every day. This "Silver Tsunami" of 79 million aging Americans will continue until 2030. By then, 18% of the US population will be over age 65, an increase from 13% in 2010. With this sharp increase in the number of older Americans, we will see dramatically more patients with chronic debilitating illnesses, including dementia. The prevalence of Alzheimer's dementia in the US population is expected to triple by 2050. From 2000-2008, death rates for other major diseases - HIV, stroke, heart disease, prostate cancer, and breast cancer - declined, whereas death rates from Alzheimer's Disease increased 66%. Alzheimer's Disease is the only top 10 cause of death in America without a way to prevent, cure, or even slow its progression. Alzheimer's Disease has been called the "great health crisis of the 21st century". Palliative care will have much to offer these patients and families. Using a case-based approach, this session will explore the benefits of palliative care in supporting patients and families living with dementia.
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