According to the Alzheimer’s Association, nearly 6 million adults in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is expected to increase to nearly 14 million by 2050, which makes Alzheimer’s the most common form of dementia. Over time, this disease slowly robs individuals of their memories, personalities, and ability to care for themselves on even the most basic level. The following are six facts every caregiver should know about memory loss and the other effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
1. Early Alzheimer’s May Not Affect Memory at All
Most people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s are able to function normally. Family, friends, and even the senior with the disease may not be aware there’s an issue, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Memory loss and other effects of Alzheimer’s don’t usually become readily apparent until the middle stages of the disease.
2. Alzheimer’s Involves More than Memory Loss
While memory loss is one of the earliest signs of the disease, the effects of Alzheimer’s extend much further. Alzheimer’s disease causes decay in brain cells, affecting multiple cognitive functions. In addition to being unable to recall information, individuals with Alzheimer’s also exhibit changes in judgment, planning, and organizational skills as well as in behavior.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Home Care Assistance is a leading elderly home care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
3. Alzheimer’s May Not Affect Emotional Memory
Individuals with advanced Alzheimer’s are often unable to recognize faces or recall the names of immediate family members. However, this doesn’t mean it’s pointless to communicate or interact with seniors with Alzheimer’s. The memories of the feelings and emotions associated with people, places, and activities often remain long after the ability to recall names, dates, and other information fades.
4. Alzheimer’s Memory Loss Affects Adults of All Ages
Alzheimer’s is most often associated with the elderly. Of the nearly 6 million adults diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, more than 5 million are over the age of 65. However, the disease can affect people as early as their 30s, 40s, or 50s. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 5 percent of those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are younger than 65.
Aging adults who need help handling mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of highly trained professional caregivers. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional in-home care. Lincoln, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
5. Alzheimer’s Is the Sixth Leading Cause of Death in the United States
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Alzheimer’s claims approximately 84,000 lives in the U.S. each year. Only cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory diseases, strokes, and accidents claim more lives. Alzheimer’s is unique among the leading causes of death in that there are currently no methods to prevent, cure, or stop the disease from progressing.
6. Not All Memory Loss Is Related to Alzheimer’s
Everyone experiences momentary bouts of forgetfulness from time to time, especially with age. Overlooking an appointment or temporarily forgetting where you left your car keys doesn’t necessarily indicate early Alzheimer’s. Failing to recognize a familiar street, on the other hand, may be more cause for concern. The concern arises when the forgetfulness begins to impact daily life or endangers the safety and wellbeing of the individual.
Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to handle. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Lincoln Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. If you need professional care for your loved one, reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (916) 226-3737.