|
 What
exactly is Alzheimer’s disease?
According to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, Alzheimer’s
disease is defined as a “progressive, degenerative disorder
that attacks the brain’s nerve cells, or neurons, resulting
in loss of memory, thinking and language skills, and behavioral
changes”. Among those 65 or older, Alzheimer’s is the
most common cause for the loss of intellectual function.
How is Alzheimer’s diagnosed and is there a cure?
Alzheimer’s disease can now be diagnosed with up
to 90 percent accuracy. Neuropsychological tests are performed that
gauge memory, attention, problem-solving abilities and language
skills. Symptoms are much easier to manage when diagnosis is made
in the early stages. Unfortunately there is currently no known cure
although research in this field is ongoing.
How is dementia different from Alzheimer’s?
Dementia is a clinical state characterized by the loss
of function in several cognitive domains. It is a general term used
to describe groups of symptoms such as loss of memory, judgment,
complex motor skills and language. Many major disorders such as
Alzheimer’s cause dementia. Several other diseases can also
cause dementia, such as Parkinson’s, Creutzfeldt-Jakob, Huntington’s
and multi-infarct or vascular disease, caused by multiple strokes
in the brain. Accurate diagnosis is critical since dementia may
also be caused by thyroid problems or vitamin deficiencies. Unlike
Alzheimer’s, these conditions may be reversible.
How is Alzheimer’s treated?
No treatment is yet available to stop or reverse the onset
of Alzheimer’s disease. However, certain medications such
as Cognex®, Aricept®, Exelon®, or Reminyl® can delay
symptoms for a limited time for patients in the early to middle
stages. There are also medicines available to help control behavioral
symptoms such as sleeplessness, anxiety, depression, and agitation.
Here at Stafford Hill Assisted Living, we understand the unique
needs that accompany memory impairment and we are able to meet these
needs with a supportive and safe living environment in our Generations
Program. We engage our residents in activities that evoke familiarity
and comfort to minimize adverse symptoms. The Generations Program
is adapted to each resident’s needs. We use methods such as
art, cooking or music therapy to stimulate the resident’s
creativity and senses, or tasks such as setting the table, to empower
the individual. We also incorporate hobbies the resident may have
previously enjoyed. These methods have been found to greatly aid
in maintaining independence for those with Alzheimer’s. Our
goal is to help each resident live with the highest possible level
of independence and comfort.
What are some of the symptoms or warning signs?
Alzheimer’s is both a progressive and variable disease.
Symptoms advance slowly but at different rates and patterns and
will differ for each individual. The appearance of behavioral changes
will be based on the particular way the individual is affected as
well as the advancement of the disease. In the early stages, individuals
may experience mild forgetfulness. As the disease progresses, simple
tasks such as brushing one’s teeth may be forgotten.
The ADEAR (Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Referral Center)
and the National Institute on Aging offer the following warning
signs of the disease. However, even if an individual has several
of these signs they may not have Alzheimer’s and should be
thoroughly examined by a medical specialist trained in memory care.
Common Indicators of Alzheimer’s Disease
- Asking the same question repeatedly
- Repeating the same story, word for word, again and again
- Forgetting how to cook, make simple repairs, play cards –
activities that were previously performed with ease and regularity
- Losing one's ability to pay bills or balance one's checkbook
- Getting lost in familiar surroundings, or misplacing household
objects
- Neglecting to bathe, or wearing the same clothes over and over
again, while insisting that they have taken a bath or that their
clothes are still clean
- Relying on someone else, such as a spouse, to make decisions
or answer questions they previously would have handled themselves
- A noticeable change in mood, personality or behavior
- Difficulties with abstract thinking, taking the initiative,
or finding the right words to express themselves
- Disorientation of time and place
Where can I find more information about Alzheimer’s
and related support groups?
There are many resources available to find more information
about Alzheimer’s. Locally, there is the Alzheimer’s
Services of Cape Cod and the Islands (www.alzcapecod.org) and the
Alzheimer’s Association – Massachusetts Chapter (www.alzmass.org).
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (www.alzfdn.org), Alzheimer’s
Association (www.alz.org) and the Alzheimer’s Disease Education
and Referral Center (ADEAR) (www.alzheimers.org) provide in depth
information about the disease. Both the National Institute on Aging
and The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
(www.ninds.nih.gov) also provide updates concerning the progress
of medical advancements and research.
There are many support groups specifically developed to help either
individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or those affected by
a loved one with the disease. State and county agencies are a good
source to locate groups in your area. The Alzheimer’s Association
(www.alz.org) also offers local support groups through a network
of chapters nationwide. At Stafford Hill, The Generations Program
will provide the support and care needed for you and your loved
one. Regular support group meetings will be conducted on-site guided
by trained professionals. You may also contact our office and we
will be happy to provide you with additional information and resources
on these topics.
What are some of the common emotions that family members
and caregivers may experience?
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately
one in 10 families has a relative with Alzheimer’s disease.
Because of the nature of the disease, it is often extremely challenging
for families. Once an individual is diagnosed, their decline is
unpredictable and slow, lasting on average for a decade. It can
be overwhelming, especially as the disease progresses requiring
extreme patience, compassion, and understanding. Many family members
experience negative feelings toward the situation, frustration,
and denial. It can also cause feelings of fear, anger, sadness and
confusion. The key for family members is to focus on the things
that the individual can still do and not on what is lost. Keeping
a positive attitude helps both the family members and the diagnosed
individual. Maintain open communication and avoid directing negative
feelings from the situation towards family members. Always remember
that there are support services readily available to provide guidance
and assistance in any way.
Families must educate themselves about the disease and find the
right support and assistance. Long-term questions, such as personal,
legal, and financial issues should be addressed as soon as possible.
Ideally, responsibilities should also be divided among family members
according to each member’s preferences, abilities, and resources
so as to minimize possible future conflicts.
How do I know when it’s time to seek help for the
care of my loved one?
The physical and mental health of the caregiver is perhaps
one of the most important factors in determining when additional
assistance is needed. A study of elderly spouse caregivers, aged
66 to 96, found that caregivers who experience mental or emotional
strain have a 63 percent higher risk of dying than non-caregivers.
Too often caregivers focus their energy on their relative’s
needs and loose sight of their own wellbeing.
Below is a basic caregiver questionnaire to help assess
your need for assistance:
Recently I have…
If you answered “yes” to six or more questions, consider
visiting your physician to ensure your wellbeing. Investigate area
caregiver support groups and fully access all care options available
for your loved one. Please contact Stafford Hill Assisted Living
to learn more about how we can be of assistance with the Generations
Program. Keep in mind we also offer short-term respite care.
For more information, please contact Stafford Hill Assisted
Living at
(508) 830.9990.
Sources:
Alzheimer’s Association
Alzheimer’s Disease Education & Referral Center (ADEAR)
National Institute for Aging
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America
Mayo Clinic |
