More than 6 million Americans live with the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, and while there's no cure for the condition, early diagnosis can help those who develop it maintain a higher quality of life. In honor of Alzheimer's Awareness Month, this post introduces you to what Alzheimer's is and explains how it's different from dementia. Then, you'll learn what warning signs to look out for and what to do if you observe them in a loved one.
Alzheimer's disease is a brain disease that affects a person's ability to remember, think, learn and employ organizational skills. The condition is progressive, meaning that its symptoms worsen over time. People with advanced Alzheimer's often struggle to perform daily living tasks, such as eating, bathing, grooming and dressing on their own.
The risk for Alzheimer's disease increases with age, and 90% of individuals who have the condition are diagnosed after age 65. Researchers are still working to determine what causes Alzheimer's, but it's believed that a combination of age-related changes in the brain, genetics and environment contribute to the disease.
Some people use the terms "Alzheimer's" and "dementia" interchangeably, but the terms don't really refer to the exact same thing. Dementia is a broad term that describes difficulties with mental functioning. To be diagnosed with dementia, a person must typically experience changes in two or more of the following categories:
Alzheimer's is a distinct disease that usually begins with minor cognitive impairment. During later stages, a person with the condition may develop dementia. In fact, dementia associated with Alzheimer's disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80% of cases.
As previously mentioned, early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease tend to be mild. They can include:
If your loved one is exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, consult a health care provider promptly. A doctor can discuss symptoms with your loved one, conduct a physical exam and order tests to determine if they have Alzheimer's disease.
Getting a diagnosis early can benefit your loved one by allowing them to try medications and other treatments that may slow the progression of symptoms. The earlier you learn your loved one has Alzheimer's disease, the more time you have to plan for their future care as well.
As the disease progresses, your loved one will likely require more and more assistance and may benefit from the around-the-clock support provided by a Memory Care neighborhood, such as the one available at Aberdeen Heights in Kirkwood, Missouri. Beginning to explore care options while your loved one is still able to be independent makes the process less stressful for everyone. Your loved one may even be able to provide input and participate in the decision-making when you're able to begin planning early.
Aberdeen Heights is a continuing care community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Long-Term Care. Our Memory Care neighborhood provides a safe, secure and nurturing environment for people with Alzheimer's disease, and our team of compassionate, knowledgeable caregivers is here to support your loved one and the rest of your family. Contact us today to learn more about our amenities and to schedule a tour.
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Aberdeen Heights is a not-for-profit, faith-based organization and a proud member of the PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®) family.
