Since Alzheimer's disease (AD) usually begins later in life, a diagnosis can cause long-term hardship in both time and finances. In the article, Ability Central will address frequent support-related questions, including:

• Does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) cover Alzheimer's disease?
• What government programs help people with Alzheimer's disease-related expenses within the US?
• Where can I find help understanding my healthcare options?
• Where can I find a support group for people with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers?

Does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) cover Alzheimer's disease?

The ADA does not contain a list of medical conditions that constitute disabilities. Instead, it provides a general definition of disability that each person must meet. A person with Alzheimer's disease may qualify under the ADA if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

To learn how the ADA may protect a person with Alzheimer's at work, see Job Accommodation Network (JAN).

To learn how the ADA may protect the caregiver, see the ADA National Network.

What government programs help people with Alzheimer's disease-related expenses within the US?

• Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people age 65 or older who are receiving Social Security retirement benefits or who are younger than 65 and have received Social Security disability benefits for at least 24 months.
• Medicare Advantage allows you to choose a "managed care" plan such as Medicare Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), or Point of Service (POS).
• Medigap insurance supplements the person's Medicare coverage. Where Medicare lacks, Medigap can help with things like deductibles.
• Medicaid is a program administered by each state. Medicaid pays for medical care for people with very low income, and it can assist with long-term care for people who have used up most of their own money.
• Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) provides workers younger than 65 with Social Security disability payments. To qualify, the person must be unable to work in any occupation.
• The Compassionate Allowance Initiative (CAI) allows people with younger-onset Alzheimer's disease to receive SSDI as long as they meet all other criteria.
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) guarantees a minimum monthly income for people aged 65 or older, are disabled or blind, and have minimal income and assets. To qualify for SSI benefits, the person must meet the Social Security Administration's definition of disability.
• Veteran's Affairs (VA) provides health care benefits for veterans who have actively served in the military.

Where can I find help understanding my healthcare options?

Three free resources are available to help you sort through the available programs.

• The Alzheimer's Association has online information on local and national services while maintaining a 24/7 helpline.
• Dementia Care Central has a library of free resources and an online form for additional questions.
• The US government-run resource is the National Institute of Aging (NIA).

Where can I find a support group for people with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers?

The Alzheimer's Association has an online forum that connects people with AD and their caregivers with others with similar questions and concerns. Check out ALZConnected for more information.

The Ability Central Portal also has a Service Locator, with thousand of organizations nationwide that offer support and care. Find the help that's right for you. 

Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia is a general term used to describe a loss of memory and other cognitive abilities that interfere with daily life and a person’s ability to communicate. Alzheimer's disease is a specific type of dementia that gradually worsens over time. It is a physical illness that damages the brain, leading to symptoms of dementia. While Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia, there are many other types as well. However, it is important to note that not all dementia is caused by Alzheimer's disease.

Learn more about dementia. 

Also, see Ability Central's catalog of Alzheimer's resources, including:

• Alzheimer's disease Quick Facts
• Alzheimer's disease: Signs and symptoms
• Alzheimer's disease: Planning for the future after a diagnosis