Did you know that over 50 million people in the world are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease? The Alzheimer’s Association describes the degenerative brain disease as the most common form of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Symptoms usually worsen overtime and can interfere with daily tasks. There is no current cure for Alzheimer’s disease but its symptoms can be managed upon proper diagnosis.
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
According to the NHS, dementia pertains to the group of related symptoms associated with the decline of brain function that eventually affects your cognitive skills. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of dementia patients and is commonly found in those aged 65 and over. Although older adults are more likely to develop the condition, it is not a normal part of aging and can also affect younger patients. It is not yet fully known by modern science what causes Alzheimer’s disease, but age and family history are known risk factors.
Early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease
Changes in your brain can occur years before initial symptoms of the disease manifest. While it is common to forget from time to time, Alzheimer’s disease may cause you to forget even the most important things in your life like:
- Directions in familiar areas of your neighborhood (wandering)
- Paying for bills, or handling cash in general
- Basic words for communicating with others
- Misplacing valuable items
- Forgetting basic self-care tasks
There are several known stages of Alzheimer’s disease, and those who are diagnosed early often exhibit changes in personality/behavior and are prone to repeating questions. More advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease can lead to hallucinations, impulsive behavior, unfounded suspicions of family members, and paranoia.
Diagnosed patients nearing the severe and final stage of the disease will become dependent on others since they will not be able to care for themselves like they used to.
Caring for your loved one
Alzheimer’s disease can be difficult to diagnose since its exact origins and treatment are still unknown, but a timely diagnosis can help you plan for the future. Your physician may prescribe a series of memory tests and brain scans to rule out other possible diseases. While conditions and your circumstances may vary, these simple tips may help you establish a routine at home that can minimize frustration between you and your loved one:
- Set a schedule for tasks like eating and bathing. Expect that they will need more time to accomplish simple errands as their condition worsens.
- Involve the person in simple decisions like picking what to wear or what to eat for the day. Give them a few options to choose from.
- Remove possible distractions to help your loved one concentrate on tasks like eating, etc.
- Keep toxic and harmful items away or locked in a cabinet.
- Ensure that your loved ones’ space is free from health hazards like loose cables, slippery rugs, and sharp edges to avoid possible injury.
- Learn about what kind of activity would your family member be interested in like music, art, and more.
- Monitor their physical state by making sure that they brush their teeth and groom themselves on a daily basis.
It can be challenging for families to care for their loved ones who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease at home. You must care for your health as well and seek emotional support from friends and family so you can effectively carry out your tasks as a caregiver. Get in touch with local organizations and your healthcare provider for a mental health check if you feel distressed or overwhelmed. While your loved one may not behave like their usual self anymore, always remember that they are and will always be the person that you used to know.
General disclaimer
Your doctor will always be in the best position to give the appropriate medical advice for your condition. For suspected undesirable drug reaction, seek medical attention immediately and report to the FDA at www.fda.gov.ph and UNILAB, Inc. at 8-UNILAB-1 or productsafety@unilab.com.ph. Always buy your medicine from your trusted drugstores and retailers.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/alzheimers-caregiver/art-20047577
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/alzheimers-disease/
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/what-is-alzheimers
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures
https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/stages
https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/daily-care
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/alzheimers-disease-fact-sheet
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm
