Deaths directly attributed to Alzheimer’s are growing rapidly.
In fact, the CDC attributed nearly 85,000 deaths from the
disease in 2011 (a 39% jump during the past ten years). In
addition, a separate study released yesterday by the Alzheimer’s
Association stated “only 30% of the 70-year olds not afflicted
with the disease are expected to die before their 80th birthday,
compared to 61% for those suffering from dementia. “Dying with
Alzheimer’s, however, should not be considered the same as dying
of it,” stated Dr. Maria Carrillo, and associate with the
Alzheimer Association. “But even when dementia isn’t the direct
cause of death, it can be a final blow, speeding decline by
interfering with care for other serious illnesses, including
cancer and heart disease, or even diabetes and high blood
pressure, etc.” In addition to forgetting to take medications,
many patients find it hard to describe their symptoms to other
ailments, including infections which can prevent them from
getting the help they need until it i