More than 100 million U.S. adults have either diabetes or prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Diabetes affects seniors disproportionately to the general population. Nearly 26% of Americans 65 and older are diagnosed with this condition; this is three times the rate of the general population. The problem is further concentrated among low income seniors.
As if managing diabetes alone was not enough of a challenge, the financial constraints make it even more of a problem for many seniors. A study from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) found the average annual health care costs of persons with diabetes was twice that of those of a similar age without the condition. Annual health care spending was almost $12,000. One in five seniors reports reducing their use of diabetes medication and supplies due to financial constraints. What's more is the cost of diabetes is not limited to medication and supplies; it also costs more to eat healthy and properly manage one's diet.
Fortunately, financial assistance is available. When seeking financial assistance, it is helpful to think of two major categories of assistance. First is understanding the benefits of one's insurance coverage to make certain one receives all of which they are entitled. The second category is outside financial assistance. This is a diverse grouping, which can come in the form of cash, free supplies, reduced medication costs, and even assistance to pay insurance co-payments or monthly premiums. The sources of outside financial assistance are equally as diverse as the types of assistance. These include pharmaceutical companies, state governments, non-profit organizations, and clinical studies, to name just a few.
Not to forget the option of taking advantage of clinical trials.
According to the National Institutes of Health participants in clinical trials not only contribute to better treatments for diabetes, they get medical attention and education for free, and they can reap financial benefits as well.
Learn more about AMCR Institute, a San Diego-based research center.
"We passionately believe that the participation of a few in clinical research studies can make a difference to the many that suffer from chronic metabolic conditions," the center's website says, stressing that the research institute places the "care, safety, and confidentiality of our volunteers first."
Click here to contact AMCR Institute today.
