How Expensive Is Treatment For Alzheimer's Disease, And What Part Is Covered?

Treatment for Alzheimer's disease is extremely expensive, with monthly medication costs ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹10,000, while comprehensive care, including caregivers and facilities, often costs ₹15,000 to ₹1.5 lakh+ monthly. Total annual household costs of care range from ₹20,300 to over ₹2 lakh, depending on severity and location. Health insurance for Alzheimer’s patients includes a wide range of medical coverage, such as hospitalisation expenses, health check-ups, ambulance charges, prescribed medical aid expenses, ICU benefits, teleconsultations, and offering a lump sum payout to help with treatment expenses. Policies generally cover inpatient hospitalisation (stays over 24 hours), pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, and day care treatments. However, if the disease comes under pre-existing conditions, it will be subject to a waiting period before claims can be made. It includes cashless treatment at network hospitals, health check-ups, and 24*7 telecommunication support.

How to Take Care of an Alzheimer’s Patient?

Here are some important tips for taking care of a family member who is an Alzheimer's patient:

• Be Understanding: Alzheimer's patients are expected to forget things frequently and have behavioural issues as their mood swings frequently. The trick to dealing with them is to be calm and compassionate.


• Follow a Fixed Routine: If you are taking care of someone who is dealing with Alzheimer's, then you need to first start a fixed, everyday routine for him/her. This will involve regular doctor appointments in case they show any symptoms. Moreover, the doctor can assess the patient in an effective way if a family member is with him/her.


• Focus on Stopping Distractions: Alzheimer's patients can get easily distracted; caregivers need to find ways to minimise them. A simple and effective way to minimise distractions while communicating with them is to not watch the TV, phone, or music, as it becomes easier for them to focus on these things. Additionally, one should provide simple instructions to them that are easy to follow.


• Build a Safe Environment: If your loved one suffers from Alzheimer's disease, then you need to create a safe environment for them. You might want to keep all the electronics away from them and make your home a safe place for them. Besides electronic items, you might also want to put away extension cords, rugs, and other wire-related items that can lead to falls.


• Require Flexibility and lots of Patience: One should be flexible while taking care of an Alzheimer's patient and be advised to deal with patience. You may have to repeat yourself again and again or face resistance from them. For this, you can follow a fixed routine and be cooperative to overcome any frustration.