How can this be possible? A recent report by the Alzheimer’s Association has estimated that ten million baby boomers are projected to have Alzheimer’s disease and that the number of people under age 65 with Alzheimer’s will continue to increase. Something must be done about this because we have a crisis on our hands. How do families cope when there is a loved one so young needing care?
Our show takes a look into the lives of the remarkable Henley Family. Mike was diagnosed with Early Onset Familial Alzheimer's disease at age 36. His wife Karen and two children Courtney and Brandon have become his caregivers for the past 9 years. And what’s more frightening is that both Courtney and Brandon having a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene that causes Familial Alzheimer's disease.
Not only do we meet the Henley Family, we also have the privilege of hearing from Mary Ann Ragona the Executive Director of the Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter and Dr. Irving Gomolin, the Chief Medical Officer at Gurwin Jewish Geriatric Center. Ms. Ragona discusses the work and resources provided by the Association and Dr. Gomlin provides us with insights into what happens in the brain of an Alzheimer’s patient as well as the latest news in research.
Having to take care of a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease can be a heartbreaking proposition. But there are many who refuse to give up and decide to take care of their loved one at home.
We must do our best to combat this horrible disease and we can find hope and strength from family and resources that are available in our community. The Alzheimer’s Association Long Island Chapter has a legal advisory committee that can help preserve one’s dignity and protect assets. Please visit www.alzheimersli.org or our web site www.vjrussolaw.com for more information.
And remember, FAMILY truly does Come First.