Introduction
Alzheimer is a progressive disease, which is a type of dementia which mainly impacts behavior, thinking and memory. It is the pattern seen in Alzheimer’s disease, making up between 60-80 percent of all cases. When the disease is still at an early age, patients may have slight confusion and memory loss, but that progresses to the point where the patient has difficulty performing daily tasks and understanding language. Alzheimer’s disease is as a result of amyloid plaques and tau tangles affecting the normal operation of neurons in the brain. Its exact cause however is unknown; however genetic factors, environmental factors, and life styles are believed to have profound influence. As of the present, there is no cure, but the goal of treatment is curative management as well as provision of symptomatic relief. Many patients and families need early intervention and therefore diagnosis is a central priority.
Cost Comparison
The cost of alzheimer's disease treatment varies widely anywhere in the world, depending on the hospital, the stage of cancer, the type of treatment, the number of therapy sessions required, the patient’s overall health condition, post-operative complications and care, etc. The average cost of alzheimer's disease in India is USD $15000.
But be assured as the cost of Alzheimer's Disease in India is just a fraction of developed nations.
- Avg Cost of treatment - $15000
- Maximum cost of treatment - $50000
Factors affecting Cost Of Treatment
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The cost of Alzheimer’s treatment in India varies greatly, based upon several factors that affect both the cost and how much treatment is necessary. Key factors include:
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Hospital Type and Location: Neurology in private hospitals in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, are generally costlier, since the facilities are better, the specialized care given is better, and the expert neurologists costlier. However, in tier-2 cities, the options you might find can be more affordable, though of course, care may be different.
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Treatment Type: Overall cost depends very much on the treatment chosen (medications, cognitive therapies or lifestyle interventions). Cholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate regulators, which can be expensive, especially when long term use is needed. Higher costs are also incurred when an advanced therapy or a trial is performed.
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Disease Stage: Treatment needs for early stage Alzheimer's are likely less intensive than late stage Alzheimer's, which requires round the clock care, rehabilitation, more doctor visits and significantly more total cost.
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Caregiver and Support Services: Depending on the stage of the problem, the cost of treatment can go further; for example, hiring professional caregivers or even going for assisted living facilities. These costs can be very high, depending on the type of at home care — like nursing services, or specialized memory care units.
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Duration of Treatment: Requiring repetitive care, Alzheimer’s is a chronic condition. And the cumulative time spent on treatment—whether it's months or even a few years, for long-term medications and regular visits—can really get lengthy.
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Insurance Coverage: Reduction in out of pocket expenses for the treatment of Alzheimer's in India is primarily achieved by medical insurance coverage.
Treatment Options
1. Medications:
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It is common for cholinesterase inhibitors such as Donepezil, Rivastigmine or Galantamine to be prescribed to eaiser nerve cell communication and temporarily better memory loss and confusion.
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Memantine, a glutamate regulator, is able to control abnormal brain activity and therefore improve cognitive symptoms and behaviour.
2. Behavioral and Psychological Interventions:
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There are also therapies of the cognitive or behavioral type or behavior modification, that help to reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, and aggression.
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Cognitive stimulation therapy can help people maintain memory, reasoning and problem solving skills.
3. Lifestyle Modifications:
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Several other things can help promote brain health, including a healthy diet (such as the MIND diet) and regular physical exercise, as well as social activities. These things may even help slow progression.
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Puzzles or memory games for example, can help stimulate cognitive function.
4. Clinical Trials:
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Clinical trials are testing experimental treatments, including immunotherapies aimed at amyloid plaques, or gene therapies.
5. Supportive Care:
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With Alzheimer’s patients, caregivers mainly help provide physical and emotional support, as the disease progresses and patients need help with daily activities.
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Each patient’s dose and treatment strategy is tailored based on individual patient needs to manage the disease more effectively with a combination of approaches.
How Medotil Global Assists International Patients
Medical Visa Assistance
- Guides patients through the process of obtaining a medical visa for India.
- Provides necessary documentation support, such as invitation letters from hospitals.
Accommodation Arrangements
- Helps secure comfortable and affordable lodging near treatment centers.
- Offers a range of options, including guest houses, hotels, or serviced apartments.
Food Services
- Assists in arranging dietary preferences, including international cuisines and special diets for medical needs.
Transportation Support
- Provides airport pickup and drop-off services.
- Offers reliable transportation for hospital visits and local travel.
Hospital and Doctor Selection
- Recommends top hospitals and connects patients with experienced specialists in their specific condition.
- Ensures access to advanced medical treatments and technology.
Tourism Services
- Organizes visits to famous tourist attractions like the Taj Mahal, Jaipur, Kerala, and other cultural landmarks.
- Tailors travel plans based on patient preferences and recovery needs.
24/7 Support
- Provides round-the-clock assistance for any queries or emergencies during the stay in India.