If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s who is bedridden, the monthly care costs can be significant. Below is a breakdown of the estimated monthly expenses (in Thailand):
1. Direct Costs
1.1 Medical and Medication Costs
- Specialized medications such as Alzheimer’s treatment drugs, anxiety control meds, and others.
- Regular health check-ups by specialists, including blood tests and brain scans.
Estimated monthly cost: USD 140 – 280
1.2 Nursing and Caregiving Services
- Home nursing services for Alzheimer’s patient (if applicable).
- General care such as feeding, hygiene, and assistance with mobility.
Estimated monthly cost: USD 420 – 840 (depending on hours and level of care)
1.3 Medical Supplies for Bedridden Care
- Adult diapers
- Specialized cleaning products (soap, shampoo, disinfectants)
- Medical equipment like hospital beds, anti-bedsore mattresses, and wheelchairs
Estimated monthly cost: USD 140 – 280
1.4 Food and Nutritional Needs
- Special dietary supplements and medical food for Alzheimer’s patient with unique nutritional requirements.
Estimated monthly cost: USD 140 – 230
2. Opportunity Costs for Caregivers
- If caregivers need to quit their jobs or reduce working hours, lost income can be a significant factor.
- Example: The average monthly income in Thailand is around USD 560 – 840.
Estimated opportunity cost per month: USD 560 – 840
3. Indirect Costs
- Transportation: For taking the Alzheimer’s patient to medical appointments.
- Maintenance of medical equipment like beds and wheelchairs.
Estimated monthly cost: USD 60 – 140
Total Monthly Care Costs in Thailand
- Direct costs: USD 860 – 1,630
- Opportunity costs for caregivers: USD 560 – 840
- Indirect costs: USD 60 – 140
Grand total per month: USD 1,400 – 2,800
These are estimated costs and may vary depending on individual circumstances. By slowing down the progression of Alzheimer’s or improving the patient’s condition, you could save between USD 16,800 – 33,600 annually in Thailand.
Advanced Brain Technologies to Help Alzheimer’s Patients Delay Disease Progression and Extend Quality Time
Transcranial Pulse Stimulation (TPS)
is a cutting-edge, non-invasive brain stimulation technology. It uses low-energy shockwave pulses to stimulate the brain, approved by the European Union and Thailand’s FDA to treat Alzheimer’s dementia. TPS increases blood vessel branching in the brain and promotes the growth of brain cells. Studies have shown significant memory improvement in Alzheimer’s patients within one month after TPS, with the effects peaking at three months and lasting for 6-12 months. Patients experience improved memory and quality of life.
From the graph below, the red line represents typical memory decline in Alzheimer’s patients, with scores steadily decreasing as the disease progresses.
The blue line shows memory improvement in Alzheimer’s patients who underwent TPS six times. Memory scores increased one month after treatment, peaked at three months, and remained high for up to 12 months before gradually declining due to the natural progression of the disease.
By using TPS to stimulate the brain, the decline in memory and brain function can be slowed, delaying the time patients become bedridden and improving their quality of life. This could save families USD 16,800 – 33,600 annually.
In addition to TPS, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) enhances brain cell activity and electrical conductivity in brain fibers, leading to improved mood, increased alertness, better memory, and smoother speech.
For TPS and TMS consultations, personalized medical advice, referral information, conferences, training, or collaborations for doctors, contact Brainwell Medical ✚ at www.BrainwellMedical.com.
References:
- https://www.phyathai.com/th/article/2190-how-to-care-for-alzheimers-patients_ptn
- https://www.phyathai.com/th/article/2184-9_คำถามกับโรคอัลไซเมอร์bra
- https://www.phyathai.com/th/article/alzheimers-neuro-pyt1
- https://www.samitivejhospitals.com/th/article/detail/alzheimer-dementia
- https://www.tiscowealth.com/article/health-protection-advisory/alzheimer-critical-illness-insurance.html
- https://www.salika.co/2024/02/22/ai-alzheimers-early-detection/
- https://thaitgri.org/?p=38965 https://www.nakornthon.com/article/detail/โรคสมองเสื่อมรู้ทันป้องกันได้
