Alzheimer’s Awareness Month occurs in the Month of November. It is during this time that we work to increase awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and show a high level of support for the 6.7 million individuals in the United States that live with the disease.
According to statistics, over 3 million Americans are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease each and every single year. It is considered to be more deadly than both prostate cancer and breast cancer – combined.
To date, approximately 11 million people serve as unpaid caregivers for at least one loved one diagnosed with this disease. Continue reading to learn more.
What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disease that is both progressive and deadly. There is currently no cure. Despite popular belief, the development of this disease is not a part of the healthy aging process.
While the cause is still unknown, it is theorized that it is caused by the buildup of proteins that become misfolded within the nerve cells. In turn, those proteins cause brain damage.
This damage may occur up to ten years prior to the onset of symptoms. This is why it is important to monitor yourself and your loved ones for any type of cognitive-based impairment.
This impairment typically makes itself known prior to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia, but not all types of dementia are considered to be Alzheimer’s Disease.
What Are the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease?
There are several symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Not all patients will exhibit all symptoms at all times. The following outlines the most commonly experienced symptoms:
- The Loss of Memory
- Making Poor Decisions Due to Poor Judgment
- Taking Longer Than Usual to Complete Tasks
- Loss of Initiative
- Loss of Spontaneity
- Language Difficulties
- Repeating Questions
- Increased Levels of Anxiety
- Noticeable Agitation and/or Aggression
- Wandering
- Easily Distracted
- Getting Lost
- Trouble with Finances
- Losing Things
- Misplacement of Belongings
- Mood Changes
- Personality Changes
- Sleep Complications
- Forgetting Appointments
- Complications in Coming Up with the Right Words
- The Inability to Retain Information Recently Learned
- Requiring Memory Aids
- Lack of Personal Hygiene
- The Inability to Properly Care for the Home
Treatment
If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the above symptoms, an appointment should be made with a doctor to determine if the symptoms are related to Alzheimer’s disease. There are medications, lifestyle management techniques, and other treatments that may aid in the slowing of the progression of the illness.
Everyone should have a durable power of attorney put into place as an adult. Should any type of dementia be – eventually – diagnosed, this type of power of attorney will remain in place. A standard power of attorney will not. It is also advised that a healthcare surrogate be put into place.
Conclusion
If you are in need of elder assistance, you may contact us here at Beacon Senior Advisors today. We are capable of helping in care placement and services that are appropriate for the aging process.
Navigating senior housing options and similar issues is often difficult. Our free services can assist with this task. Simply contact our Senior Advisors today by calling: 973-713-0096