Abstract
Although often cast as a disease of later life, a growing number of people are being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in their 50s and 60s. Early-onset Alzheimer's disease (EOAD) poses special challenges and needs for individuals and their caregivers, such as employment and access to services. In this cross-sectional study, the researchers surveyed 81 (N = 81) family caregivers to individuals with EOAD to identify service and support usage and need. Descriptive analyses revealed that families utilized a range of formal services (eg, adult day) and informal support from family and friends. In terms of challenges and needs, participants indicated that they struggled most with employment, benefits, and financial issues. Although most caregivers felt that they were coping well, they also indicated that their needs were not well understood by service providers and the public. These findings highlight the need to better understand and respond to the specific issues surrounding EOAD.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 596-600 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | American Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and other Dementias |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 7 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Nov 20 2014 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© The Author(s) 2014.
Keywords
- caregiving
- early-onset Alzheimer's disease
- support needs
- young-onset Alzheimer's disease
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
- Geriatrics and Gerontology
- Psychiatry and Mental health