November 22, 2021
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Often a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia leaves your family with more questions than answers. In honor of National Alzheimer’s Disease Month, we’d like to help you answer some of those questions. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than six million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s and that number is projected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050 making awareness, education, and support for those living with this disease (and their families) more important than ever. As such, here are some secrets to supporting your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
Know the Facts
First, it’s important to understand the realities of Alzheimer’s disease. For example, one in nine people aged 65 and older has Alzheimer’s while almost two-thirds of those with the disease are women, per the Alzheimer’s Association. What’s more, Alzheimer’s kills more than breast cancer and prostate cancer combined, and people 65 and older live an average of four to eight years. But some live as long as 20 years, which reflects the uncertain progression of the disease. Learn more stats from the Alzheimer’s Association.
Many people also don’t realize that Alzheimer’s disease is just one type of dementia. In fact, dementia is not a disease in and of itself; rather it’s a term that describes a group of symptoms associated with a decline in thinking, reasoning and/or memory that impairs your ability to perform daily activities. Alzheimer’s is a specific brain disease which accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Learn more about the differences between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia here.
How to Support Your Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease
Even though you may feel helpless, there are actually a number of ways you can support your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Learn the Warning Signs – Often we suspect a loved one has Alzheimer’s before we know for sure. Here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Memory loss that disrupts life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with spoken or written words
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood or personality
Get more detail on the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease here.
- Get Help Early On – One of the best ways to support your loved one is early detection. There is simply no reason to wait if you suspect your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease. However, the benefits of early diagnosis include access to treatment options, opportunities to participate in clinical trials, ability to maximize time with your loved one, more time to plan for the future, and earlier access to resources and support for the entire family.
- Understand the Stages and Behaviors – Alzheimer’s typically follows three stages – early, middle and late – and knowing what to expect in each stage as well as the common behaviors your loved one might experience can help you to better support them.
- Caring for Your Loved One – Most often, a family member or members will take on the role of caregiver when a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It’s not only a role that evolves as your loved one progresses through the disease, but it’s also one that can take more of an emotional, physical and financial toll than you may expect. It’s vital that you prepare for your role and reach out for your own wellbeing as well.
- Deciding It’s Time for Memory Care – There comes a time when Alzheimer’s disease progresses to a point where more support is needed than can be provided at home. Memory care is a type of senior living that is specifically designed to support and nurture those with Alzheimer’s disease. The staff is specially trained, and care is provided in a safe environment with opportunities for your loved one to find purpose and joy. Signs it may be time to consider memory care for your loved one include:
- Safety Issues
- Forgetting to turn off burners when cooking or using electrical appliances incorrectly
- Getting lost frequently when leaving the house
- Wandering or exhibiting behaviors that may cause your loved one harm (or those around them)
- Health Issues
- Increased agitation and anxiousness
- Problems with incontinence
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Decreased mobility
- Medication errors
- Emotional Wellbeing
- Your loved one seems depressed
- They lack opportunities for social stimulation
- They would benefit from activities to strengthen cognitive functioning
Helping Your Loved One Thrive with PEAK Memory Care
Even when families recognize their loved one would benefit from care outside the home, they often feel that caregiving is the only way to help their loved one. However, with our PEAK memory care program, you can help your loved one thrive AND focus on loving them as a son, daughter, or spouse again!
We believe people with dementia can still have a full life, that’s why GenCare Lifestyle created PEAK memory care specifically for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. This program is designed to engage your loved one where they are today while enhancing their overall wellness – mind, body, and spirit. PEAK memory care includes:
- Staff specially trained in memory care
- 24-hour certified caregivers
- Daily assistance in personal care, medication, and dining
- Cutting -edge technology provided by the iN2L (It’s Never Too Late) system
- A farm-to-table culinary experience with gluten-free and diabetic friendly menu options
- Intergenerational activities and pet therapy
- Music, exercise, and brain fitness programs
- Family resources, volunteer opportunities and education
PEAK Memory Care is available in our Tacoma, Lynnwood and Federal Way communities.
For more information on how PEAK memory care can help you in supporting your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, schedule your private tour today!
