BackUnderstanding the Complexity of Alzheimer's Disease
For more information about Alzheimer's research, support and treatment, please contact the Alzheimer's Association, www.alzh.org
Alzheimer's disease is recognizable and an often used term slanted by our society to refer solely to forgetfulness, senility and a general lack of cognition. Alzheimer's and its causes are complex and often related to other illnesses that affect mental cognition such as Parkinson's disease, Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease, TIA's, or mini-strokes.
Caring for someone with Alzheimer's is emotionally, physically and financially challenging. Today, many Assisted Living communities offer "specialized care" designed specifically for Alzheimer's residents.
The following warning signs of Alzheimer's disease, as listed by the Alzheimer's Association help families and friends distinguish whether a loved one may need to seek further medical assistance in regards to possible Alzheimer's disease.
- Memory Loss
- Difficulty performing familiar tasks
- Problems with language
- Disorientation to time and place
- Poor or decreased judgment
- Problems with abstract thinking
- Misplacing things
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Changes in personality
Moving into a supportive and specialized Alzheimer's neighborhood is an easier transition in the earlier versus later stages of the disease process for the resident. Many assisted living communities offer daycare and respite programs. This is a great way to transition into a permanent living condition, or a great way to give you the "caregiver" a break.
When you make the decision to move your loved one to an Assisted Living community look for the following services and amenities:
- Secured "Memory Care" unit
- Assisted Living with a level II licensure
- Experienced and educated staff
- Activity curriculum focusing on the entire person: brain, emotion, physical, and spiritual.
- Full time nursing staff
- A community that allows your loved one to "age in place"
- Loss of initiative
For more information about Alzheimer's research, support and treatment, please contact the Alzheimer's Association, www.alzh.org.