Alzheimer's Care in Syracuse

Discover Syracuse's best Alzheimer's care, from support and resources to groundbreaking research and initiatives.

May 9, 2024

Alzheimer's Care in Syracuse

When it comes to Alzheimer's care, Syracuse offers a range of support and resources to help individuals with Alzheimer's disease, as well as their families and caregivers. These resources aim to provide assistance, education, and guidance throughout the journey of managing Alzheimer's.

Support and Resources

One valuable resource in Syracuse is the organization Senior Home Care & Alzheimer's Solutions, located at 8 Adler Drive, Suite 3 East Syracuse, NY 13057. They have been serving seniors and their families in Central New York since 2010, offering a variety of services and support options.

The Central New York Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association is another key organization providing support and resources. They offer care consultations, programs, and social programs to help individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia, as well as their caregivers and families. Their services include:

Care Consultations: These consultations assist individuals living with dementia and their families in solving immediate problems and planning for the future. They provide needs assessments and action plans to help families navigate the challenges of Alzheimer's.
Support Groups: The Alzheimer's Association Central New York Chapter offers support groups for caregivers and individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. These groups provide emotional, educational, and social support through regularly scheduled meetings.
24-Hour Helpline: The Alzheimer's Association 24-Hour Helpline (800.272.3900) serves people with memory loss, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and the public. It provides reliable information and support to those in need of assistance in Central New York.
Respite Services: Respite services for Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers in Central New York can be obtained through respite funds from the county's area agency on aging. These respite services are made possible by a grant to the Alzheimer's Association, provided caregivers meet the eligibility requirements of their county's respite program.

Memory Care Communities

Syracuse offers memory care communities that specialize in providing care and support for individuals with Alzheimer's. These communities are designed to create a safe and supportive environment for those living with memory impairments.

One example of a memory care facility in Syracuse is The Nottingham, located at 1301 Nottingham Road, Jamesville, NY, 13078. The Nottingham has a dedicated memory care wing that can accommodate approximately 20 individuals. It provides specialized care and support services tailored to the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer's.

In addition to The Nottingham, Syracuse has several other memory care communities, with three located in Syracuse proper and two in the nearby cities of Liverpool and Fayetteville. These facilities are typically certified as special needs assisted living facilities by New York's Department of Health and offer specialized care for individuals with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia.

When considering memory care communities, it's important to note that the cost can vary based on factors such as location, level of care needed, apartment size, and amenities offered. In Syracuse, the average cost of memory care is around $6,005 per month, which is slightly higher than the national average cost of $5,694 per month. It's advisable to research and visit different communities to find the one that best suits the needs and preferences of the individual with Alzheimer's.

Treatment and Clinical Trials

When it comes to Alzheimer's care in Syracuse, there are various treatment options and clinical trials available for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. These initiatives aim to provide innovative approaches to manage and potentially slow down the progression of the disease.

Aducanumab Approval

A significant advancement in Alzheimer's treatment is the approval of a new drug called aducanumab (Aduhelm™) by the FDA. This marks the first FDA-approved drug that delays decline due to Alzheimer's disease. Aducanumab targets the underlying causes of Alzheimer's by reducing the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain, which are a hallmark characteristic of the disease. This approval has brought hope to individuals with Alzheimer's and their families, as it represents a potential breakthrough in managing the disease.

CEAD Clinical Trials

The Center of Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease (CEAD) in Syracuse plays a vital role in providing access to cutting-edge clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease treatments. These trials offer opportunities for patients to access novel medications that are in the pipeline. The CEAD offers trials at every stage of the disease, from mild memory loss to advanced Alzheimer's disease with agitation.

Before the establishment of the CEAD, patients interested in participating in Alzheimer's clinical trials had to travel to Boston or New York City, causing stress and inconvenience. Having the CEAD in Central New York now allows local patients to access these services directly within the region, reducing the burden of travel.

Dr. Brangman and her team at the CEAD work to address barriers that might prevent patients from participating in clinical trials. They arrange transportation services for those without reliable means of travel and offer non-injection options for patients wary of needles. This patient-centered approach ensures that individuals have the necessary support and resources to participate in clinical trials.

In addition to clinical trials, the CEAD serves as a valuable resource for the community by providing memory evaluations at no cost to individuals concerned about their cognitive status. Participants may also be eligible for services like MRI brain scans and other evaluations not typically available without a formal workup in a doctor's office.

Through groundbreaking treatments like aducanumab and the ongoing clinical trials at the CEAD, Syracuse is at the forefront of revolutionizing Alzheimer's care. These advancements provide hope and opportunities for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and their families, while also contributing to the overall understanding and management of the disease.

Educational Programs and Events

In Syracuse, there are several educational programs and events dedicated to raising awareness and providing valuable knowledge about dementia care. These initiatives aim to equip both professionals and caregivers with the necessary skills and information to enhance the quality of care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

Dementia Care Conference

One of the prominent events in the Syracuse area is the Dementia Care Conference, organized by the Alzheimer's Association. This conference serves as a platform for experts in the field to share their knowledge and insights with attendees. The conference provides an opportunity for healthcare professionals, caregivers, and individuals interested in dementia care to come together and learn from renowned speakers in the field.

The upcoming Dementia Care Conference is scheduled to take place on May 22 at the Oncenter in Central New York. This event offers a comprehensive program covering various aspects of dementia care, including the latest research, innovative approaches, and practical strategies for managing the challenges associated with Alzheimer's disease.

Dementia Training Classes

Syracuse offers dementia training classes for professionals and caregivers seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in dementia care. These classes provide valuable insights into understanding dementia, its progression, and effective caregiving techniques.

Care365, a reputable organization, offers dementia training classes in Syracuse. These classes are designed to provide caregivers and professionals with the necessary tools and resources to provide optimal care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. The training covers topics such as communication strategies, behavior management, and creating a safe environment for individuals with dementia.

Upcoming in-person dementia training classes are scheduled for March 7, 2024, from 9 am to 3 pm. Attending these classes can greatly contribute to improving the quality of care provided to individuals with Alzheimer's disease and help caregivers navigate the unique challenges associated with dementia.

By participating in educational programs and events like the Dementia Care Conference and dementia training classes, caregivers and professionals in Syracuse can gain valuable knowledge and skills to provide exceptional care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease. These opportunities not only enhance understanding but also foster a supportive community dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by dementia.

Caregiver Support

Caring for individuals with Alzheimer's disease requires a strong support system and resources to navigate the challenges that come with the role of a caregiver. In Syracuse, there are various services and programs offered by the Alzheimer's Association to provide assistance and support for caregivers.

Alzheimer's Association Services

The Alzheimer's Association is a valuable resource for caregivers in Syracuse. They offer free, customized care planning through their care consultation service. This service helps families address both short- and long-term care needs for individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia. Care consultations provided by the Alzheimer's Association Central New York Chapter assist individuals living with dementia and their families in solving immediate problems and planning for the future, including preparing needs assessments and action plans.

In addition to personalized care planning, the Alzheimer's Association provides support, education, training, and resources to increase knowledge and to support those facing Alzheimer's disease and other dementias in the Central New York area. Their 24-Hour Helpline (800.272.3900) serves as a reliable source of information and support for individuals with memory loss, caregivers, health care professionals, and the public in Central New York [7].

Caregiver Stress and Support

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease can be emotionally and physically demanding. Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease often experience higher rates of stress, depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, and impaired kidney function compared to non-dementia caregivers. Nearly half of dementia caregivers face high levels of stress due to their caregiving responsibilities.

Recognizing the challenges faced by caregivers, the Alzheimer's Association offers a range of support services to help manage caregiver stress and promote well-being. These services include support groups, educational programs, and counseling sessions. Connecting with other caregivers who are going through similar experiences can provide a sense of understanding, validation, and emotional support.

Caregivers can also benefit from learning effective coping strategies, stress management techniques, and self-care practices. The Alzheimer's Association offers resources and guidance to help caregivers prioritize their own well-being while providing care to their loved ones.

By utilizing the services and support provided by the Alzheimer's Association, caregivers in Syracuse can find solace, guidance, and resources to navigate the challenges of caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease. These services aim to empower caregivers and provide them with the tools and support they need to provide the best care possible while taking care of their own well-being.

Statistics and Costs

When it comes to Alzheimer's care in Syracuse, it's important to understand the statistics surrounding the disease and the associated costs. Let's explore the data and costs related to Alzheimer's care in Syracuse.

Syracuse Alzheimer's Data

In Syracuse, the number of deaths for individuals aged 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer's disease increased by 13.93% between 2014 and 2019. However, the percentage of seniors' deaths related to Alzheimer's in Syracuse is lower than the national average. In Syracuse, 4.03% of seniors' deaths are attributed to Alzheimer's, compared to 6.46% in the United States as a whole [8].

Syracuse has a population of nearly 150,000 residents, with approximately 13% of them being seniors who are most likely to develop Alzheimer's. The rate of Alzheimer's-related deaths in Syracuse has slightly decreased in recent years. Between 2016 and 2020, there was an increase of about 15% in Alzheimer's deaths, while the total number of deaths increased by 19%. In 2016, a little over 4.2% of deaths in Syracuse were linked to Alzheimer's, which decreased to 4.1% in 2020.

In New York State, there are over 400,000 people living with Alzheimer's disease, with more than one million unpaid caregivers providing care for them. In 2018 alone, these caregivers contributed over 1.1 billion hours of care, valued at nearly $14.6 billion.

Memory Care Costs

When considering memory care for individuals with Alzheimer's in Syracuse, it's important to be aware of the associated costs. The cost of memory care can range from $5,000 to $8,000 per month in the Syracuse area, with an average cost of $6,600 per month. These costs should be taken into account when planning for the care of a loved one with Alzheimer's.

It's worth noting that government agencies and non-profit organizations in Syracuse and the surrounding area offer assistance to seniors searching for or residing in memory care communities. These organizations can also provide support in other eldercare services, such as geriatric care management, elder law advice, estate planning, home care assistance, and health and wellness programs [3].

Understanding the statistics related to Alzheimer's in Syracuse and the associated costs of memory care can help individuals and families make informed decisions about the care and support needed for their loved ones.

Research and Initiatives

To advance our understanding of Alzheimer's disease and improve care for individuals with this condition, various research studies and initiatives are underway in Syracuse. Two notable areas of focus are brain imaging studies and caregiver support programs.

Brain Imaging Studies

Velocity Clinical Research Syracuse has joined a research study aimed at detecting the presence or absence of Alzheimer's disease in the brains of end-of-life patients. The study involves the use of positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, which utilizes a tracer to detect signs of the disease in the brain, such as the buildup of tau protein deposits. PET imaging allows researchers to identify the areas in the brain that have formed tau tangles, which are indicative of Alzheimer's disease. This imaging technique provides valuable insights into the early and later-stage changes brought about by the disease.

Participants in the study undergo a brief eligibility examination before receiving at least one PET scan. While donating one's brain for research purposes may be a difficult decision, participation in ongoing studies like this brings researchers closer to important medical breakthroughs in the field of Alzheimer's disease.

Caregiver Support Programs

The Center of Excellence in Alzheimer's Disease (CEAD) in Syracuse plays a crucial role in supporting caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Aside from offering cutting-edge clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease treatments, the CEAD provides a range of resources and initiatives to assist caregivers.

Dr. Brangman and her team at the CEAD work to address barriers that may prevent patients from participating in clinical trials. These efforts include arranging transportation services for individuals without reliable means of travel and offering non-injection options for patients who are wary of needles. By removing these obstacles, the CEAD aims to improve access to clinical trials for a diverse range of individuals.

Furthermore, the CEAD is actively working to increase diversity in clinical trial participants by enhancing recruitment efforts in African American, Latino, Native American, and Asian communities. The establishment of an 'Equity Research Core' helps promote representation from these communities in Alzheimer's research studies.

In addition to clinical trial opportunities, the CEAD serves as a valuable resource for the community. They offer memory evaluations at no cost to individuals concerned about their cognitive status, providing access to services such as MRI brain scans and other evaluations that may not typically be available without a formal workup in a doctor's office.

By conducting brain imaging studies and establishing caregiver support programs, Syracuse is actively engaged in research and initiatives that contribute to the advancement of Alzheimer's care and support for those affected by the disease. These efforts aim to improve diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and their caregivers.