Alzheimer Patients, Caregivers Face Increased Risk in Tornado Aftermath

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Jun 03, 2011, 04:22 ET

SPRINGFIELD, Mass., June 3, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- As many Western Massachusetts residents are still surveying damage to their homes and other property in the wake of Wednesday's storm, it is easy to overlook the impact of such a natural disaster on some of the Commonwealth's most vulnerable citizens -- those with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers, according to the Alzheimer's Association.

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"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."

Over 120,000 in Massachusetts are currently living with Alzheimer's, nearly 70 percent of whom 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.

The Alzheimer's Association recommends caregivers be prepared for emergencies such as tornadoes – to have supplies, key documents, and key contact information such as doctor and emergency services updated and easily accessible. The Alzheimer's Association provides a 24/7 Helpline by phone at 800.272.3900, and on-line, that can help with disaster preparedness, and register individuals 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. The American Red Cross also has preparedness tips for seniors and those with disabilities on their website.

"Although the threat of tornados in Massachusetts may be comparatively small, the events of this week remind us that disaster can strike at any time," said Wessler. "Our thoughts are with all of those families impacted by the storm, and we are working to help people with Alzheimer's, their families and caregivers who have been affected by this disaster."

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.

SOURCE Alzheimer's Association