The Dangers of Living Alone for Those with Cognitive Decline

A study led by UC San Francisco found that living alone puts older Americans with dementia or mild cognitive impairment at risk. The US healthcare system is ill-equipped to serve this population, with patients missing medical appointments, lacking emergency contacts, and experiencing untreated medical conditions. The study highlights the need for subsidized home care aides, which are more readily available in Europe, Japan, and Canada. The researchers advocate for expanded funding from Medicare and Medicaid to provide necessary supports for vulnerable individuals with cognitive decline.