OBJECTIVES: Alzheimer's Disease is a major health challenge with significant social, economic and psychological consequences. In addition to the staggering disease figures and tremendous changes in patients’ life, Studies have shown that primary caregivers often become physically and emotionally overburdened and experience high rates of physical illness, social isolation, and emotional distress. This study aims to shade the light on Alzheimer’s caregiver societal burden and raise more attention towards the disease in Egypt.

METHODS: A caregivers’ reported outcome study was conducted with 20 caregivers in Egypt, they were responsible for closely looking after Alzheimer patients at different stages. The study spanned the care continuum from the onset of symptoms and pre-diagnosis through the late stages of the disease. Data gathering was performed through a quantitative questionnaire using face to face approach.

RESULTS: Although 90% of Caregivers are at working age, the study showed that only 20% are currently employed, and the remaining either quit their job or couldn’t find a flexible opportunity accommodate caring for their Alzheimer’s’ patient. Moreover, the study showed that almost 90% of the caregivers are living with the patient to be able to provide the proper care and attention. 40% of caregivers sought to get home care service while 20% of caregivers hired a full-time nurse to further support in patient care. The top needs highlighted by caregiver were training on how to deal with the patient and the availability of a night care service to be consulted in case of any emergency.

CONCLUSIONS: Besides patients’ deteriorated quality of life, Alzheimer’s imposes a significant societal burden on their caregivers who are a fundamental stakeholder in the disease management. The study shows a need for better social and healthcare proposed solutions by healthcare systems to ease the burden on Caregivers for better care of Alzheimer’s patients.