Aging and Obesity = Alzheimers?
The Boomer generation tended to ignore aging and health issues, but today we are more aware. Obesity and other health problems can increase long-term health care risk, adversely impacting families and finances.
Twenty years ago, the impact of aging and health was not on most people's radar screens. The Boomer generation tended to ignore the issues of getting older, long-term care, and how caregiving would impact their families and assets.
Today, most people are aware of the financial costs and burdens of aging and how getting older can lead to a higher risk of cognitive decline and physical decline. Medical science today understands the high risk of needing long-term health care, including the risk of cognitive decline. Being overweight and having diabetes might be linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's.
Research published in 2022 showed that up to 18% of adults in their 40s and 50s meet the criteria for obesity or being severely overweight, placing them at high risk for dementia. This research conducted by the University of Michigan has revealed that dementia rates amongst older people are 36% higher than they were two decades ago. Scientists reviewed Medicare bills of more than three million people over age 67 who died between 2004 and 2017. They found that dementia diagnoses amongst older adults increased by 12% within 13 years, rising from 35% in 2004 to 47% in 2017.
Today's health issues can lead to a much higher risk for health and aging problems in the future. These problems lead to a greater risk for long-term health care needs.
The Obesity Link
Dr. Jeff Cummings, Director of Cleveland Clinic's Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, says there is an obesity link. He said Alzheimer's disease has been called "type 3 diabetes" by some professionals because of its strong connection to obesity. Diabetes elevates brain proteins that are linked to the development of the disease.
"Roughly half of the risk for Alzheimer's disease is connected to things we can't control, like age and genetics," he said. "But the other half are things that are at least partially in our control … you can reduce your risk with lifestyle modification," Dr. Cummings says.
Awareness of Longevity, Dementia and Long-Term Care
Think, for a moment, about how your health and body have changed in the past 20 years. Now, think about how your health, mind, and body will change over the next 20+ years.
About half of Americans above the age of 40 believe almost everyone is likely to require long-term care services as they age. However, not everyone thinks it will happen to them. An Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll says only 25 percent believe they will need long-term care for themselves.
More people today are aware of aging and dementia and the impact long-term care needs can have on their families and finances. People wonder if they can prevent or make themselves less likely to develop Alzheimer's or dementia.
A recent study published in Physiological Reports suggests that a high-fat, high-sugar diet leading to obesity paired with normal aging may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease.
This study provides novel information in relation to the mechanistic link between obesity and the transition from adulthood to middle age and signaling cascades that may be related to [Alzheimer's] pathology later in life.
These results add to our basic understanding of the pathways involved in the early progression of [Alzheimer's] pathogenesis and demonstrate the negative effects of an HFS diet on both the prefrontal cortex and hippocampal regions.
Research Team
This doesn't suggest that you can avoid dementia or any other aging issues.
Planning for Longevity and Long-Term Care Risk
One important step that people can take, especially in their 40s and 50s, is to plan for the financial costs and burdens of aging. Health and longevity are often overlooked when putting together a retirement plan.
Some individuals think health insurance or Medicare will pay for long-term health care services and supports. Other than a limited number of days of skilled services, these plans won't pay for most long-term health care services most people will require.
Some People Deny They Will Need Extended Care - Facts Suggest Otherwise
Many individuals think they will never need extended care or, if they do, their family can provide the care. The risk of needing long-term health care is high and increases over time. You should ask yourself when you will need care and for how long. Your family usually cannot be caregivers as they have their own careers, families, and responsibilities.
Family Caregivers Face Huge Challenges
Since caregiving is hard on family members and professional care drains savings and adversely impacts lifestyle, your retirement plan needs to address these issues before you get older. The solution for many is affordable Long-Term Care Insurance. These special insurance policies provide tax-free resources for quality care, including at home.
LTC Insurance protects your 401(k) IRA SEP 403(b) and other assets from the costs associated with long-term health care. Perhaps, just as important, Long-Term Care Insurance reduces the burdens placed on loved ones as you age and need help.
Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance
Most states offer Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance plans with additional asset protection. Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance is perhaps the biggest secret in retirement planning.
You can read more about Partnership Long-Term Care Insurance. Experts suggest acting before you retire by taking advantage of low premiums and even preferred health discounts.
Most people obtain coverage in their 50s.
About the Author
An LTC News author focusing on long-term care and aging.
James Kelly
Contributor since August 21st, 2017
Editor's Note
Long-term health care costs will dramatically change your lifestyle and affect your cash flow. If you become dependent on unpaid and untrained family caregivers, they will face stress, anxiety, and health and financial hardships. You probably don't want to place these burdens on those you love.
The solution for many families is Long-Term Care Insurance. These affordable plans give you guaranteed tax-free benefits to fund your choice of quality care services, including in-home care. Some policies will pay for modifications to your home.
You must, however, get a plan before your health substantially changes. Most people get coverage in their 50s when premiums are lower, their health is better, and the most options are available.
Seek Professional Help Planning for Long-Term Care
Experts recommend seeking the help of a qualified and experienced Long-Term Care Insurance specialist to help you find the right coverage. A specialist will match your age, health, and family history with the right coverage at the right price.
Long-term care is a very specialized area, and few insurance agents and financial advisors have the expertise. Find a specialist who represents the top companies as premiums can vary over 100% between insurance companies. Leading specialists will often have over 500 clients with Long-Term Care Insurance.
A specialist will save you money, and you will have peace of mind knowing they are making the appropriate recommendations - Work With a Specialist | LTC News.
Items to Discuss with Specialist
- Partnership – Most states offer special policies that provide dollar-for-dollar asset protection. The Long-Term Care Insurance Partnership Program might be one of the best-kept secrets in retirement planning. Make sure the specialist explains this program and how it might help you.
- Tax incentives – There are federal tax incentives available for some people. If you own your own business, be sure to ask.
- Health Savings Accounts – If you have an HSA you can use the pre-tax money in your account to pay for the premium.
- Asset-Based or Hybrid policies – These are life insurance or annuities with a rider for long-term care. Careful, only consider a policy that meets federal guidelines under Section 7702(b) of U.S. Code. Hybrid policies can provide you with the flexibility of both a long-term care benefit or a death benefit. They are expensive but can be paid with a single premium.
- Health and Family History - Make sure the specialist asks you detailed questions about your health, family history, and retirement plans. Underwriting criteria vary with each insurance company. If they are not asking you detailed questions, then find another specialist.
Planning Tools and Resources Available on LTC NEWS
Planning for the future is never easy, but long-term health care planning can be very complicated and comes with many emotions. Getting the right tools and resources will make the process much easier.
One of the goals is to reduce the stress and anxiety usually placed on your family at the time of crisis. LTC NEWS can be beneficial in providing you with important information for you to consider.
LTC NEWS has put in place several resources, including:
- The LTC NEWS Cost of Care Calculator will show you the current and future cost of long-term health care services where you live. Plus, each state has vital state-specific information you should know - Cost of Care Calculator - Choose Your State | LTC News
- The Ultimate Long-Term Care Guide is an outstanding read to help you get a good overview of the topic area.
- Compare the major insurance companies that offer Long-Term Care Insurance products here - Top Insurers for Long-Term Care Insurance | LTC News.
- A detailed tax guide that includes available tax incentives can be found by reviewing the Long-Term Care Tax Benefits Guide.
Find all the resources on LTC NEWS - Resources for Long-Term Care Planning | LTC News.
Need Help Now for Mom or Dad?
If your family is already in crisis and you need to find help for mom or dad, LTC NEWS can help. We have put together several comprehensive guides to help you in your process.
Start by reading our guides -
- Finding Quality In-Home Care | LTC News
- Adult Day Care Centers (ADCCs) | LTC News
- Assisted Living and Memory Care Facilities | LTC News
- Finding a Quality Nursing Home | LTC News
If your loved one is lucky enough to own a Long-Term Care Insurance policy, be sure they use it. Sometimes families wait, thinking they can save the benefits for a rainy day. Waiting on using available Long-Term Care Insurance benefits is not a wise idea.
Get Assistance in Filing a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim
Many insurance companies have issued Long-Term Care Insurance policies over the years. Filing a claim can sometimes be complicated unless you know what to do or get expert help and assistance.
Don't allow the claim process to stop you from using the benefits available in an LTC policy. Quality care obtained early will help provide a better quality of life and reduce the risk of a deep decline and facility care.
If you need help in starting the process of a Long-Term Care Insurance claim, LTC NEWS can help. LTC NEWS provides free assistance with no obligation to help you or a loved one complete the claims process with a Long-Term Care Insurance policy. We have teamed up with Amada Senior Care, who will do all the work - free with no obligation.
Get help finding quality caregivers or long-term care facilities and get recommendations for a proper care plan, whether a person has a policy. - Filing a Long-Term Care Insurance Claim | LTC News.
Advantages of Reverse Mortgages
Today's reverse mortgages for those aged 62 and older could be an ideal resource to fund a Long-Term Care Insurance policy OR even provide money to pay for care if you, or a loved one, already needs help and assistance. You might be eligible at younger ages as well.
Some people have much of their savings invested in their homes. With today's reverse mortgages, you can find ways to fund care solutions, care itself, and even help with cash flow during your retirement.
Learn more by asking questions to an expert. Mike Banner, LTC NEWS columnist and host of the TV Show "62 Who Knew," will answer your questions regarding caregiving, aging, health, retirement planning, long-term care, and reverse mortgages.
- Just "Ask Mike." - Reverse Mortgages | LTC News.
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