Expert: Michalene Peticca - 3/23/2008

Question
This is a business related question.  My mom is in the middle stages of Alzheimers.  We have her on a waiting list for an Alzheimers Day care center.  I would like to see what money is available for these centers to see what it takes to get more open.

Answer
Hi Mike,

Thank you for writing.  Most Alzheimer's day care centers are privately run by corporations of Continuing care facilities or churches.   Few are run by state agencies, but most of these are dwindling.

As you may have guessed, healthcare is becoming more and more about "business" and less about care.  Therefore, as your probably seeing, Alzheimer's care is not a "good business" to be in because the disease itself is a long term, slow progression disease that has no cure and no means to substantially slow the process down. It mainly defects older, retired adults that even if we could "cure" the disease, would not be willing to go back into the workforce.  

That sounds very cold.  And, unfortunately, this is how law makers are viewing the disease.   And, unfortunately, that is so wrong because it is becoming more of an epidemic and we will have to challenge the current health system for funding.

You may certainly make your local State representatives aware of your day care's waiting list.   I do believe this increased number of waiting Alzheimer's adults will ultimately impact current funding in Medical Assistance that is set aside for nursing homes.   How?  Because, ultimately, most of those individuals will enter a nursing facility with a need for Medical Assistance.   Your State legislatures need to find a way to blend Medical Assistance with ALL facets of continuing care....from Day cares to Assisted living to Nursing homes.

Best of luck and Much patience for your endeavors....i say Keep Asking for it!

Best Regards,
Michalene Peticca, M.A.