Challenges of Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) doesn’t develop as one gets older. It is a condition caused by abnormal changes in the brain, which then affects memory and mental abilities. Loss of memory is usually the first symptom with other critical skills essential to everyday life getting affected as the disease progresses. Facilities for Alzheimer’s becomes essential for those looking for long-term care options.
Given this scenario, a loved one suffering from such a disease would need help with day-to-day living, be it from family members, friends, or caregivers. This can be a challenging task, but there are facilities for Alzheimer’s that can help ease the burden.
Caring for a Patient with Alzheimer’s
A person suffering from AD may exhibit the following:
- loss of decision-making ability
- loss of judgment
- loss of language
- loss of reasoning ability
The above make living a challenge for the person suffering from them, but it also affects those who provide care. Since Alzheimer’s develops gradually, not all moments will be void of fun and laughter. It is still possible to share many wonderful moments with a loved one who has developed Alzheimer’s.
There isn’t a single test that can be performed to diagnose AD, and there isn’t a cure. However, progress has been made in terms of medication that can help with memory.
Equally important in the care of Alzheimer’s patients are visits to the physician. Doing so ensures the patient’s well-being is monitored. Plus, it allows family members to prepare for the phases that will follow.
Looking for Signs of Alzheimer’s
Symptoms of AD can appear when someone is as young as 30. In most cases, however, patients are diagnosed when they are over 60. Those who have Alzheimer’s typically exhibit symptoms about three to five years before being diagnosed. Memory loss is the first sign that caregivers should look out for.
It is easy to miss out on this since it is known that people lose their memory as they grow old. However, frequent memory problems should tell you that something else might be going on – one that doesn’t have to do with age.
So while it’s true that loss of memory comes with aging, it’s best to have a loved one checked to rule out or confirm AD. The earlier you know, the better since it gives you time to prepare. Life with a person suffering from Alzheimer’s is going to be challenging and it will likely require you to make certain changes in your life as well.
Doctors can verify Alzheimer’s disease by establishing that the memory loss exhibited by a patient is abnormal. Since a cure hasn’t been developed yet, treatment after diagnosis might involve being prescribed medication to improve cognitive functions.
Facilities for Alzheimer’s
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s isn’t easy. To properly care for someone else also means having to make sure your needs are being met. If you ever need help, there are facilities for Alzheimer’s that can make sure daily living isn’t so much of a burden for your loved one.
It’s not easy having someone you care about suffer from a disease that impairs their memory. Providing the care they need can be a challenge but know that you can always seek assistance when you feel your loved one needs more support.
Providence Place of Fremont is proud to offer its Assisted Living Services to Fremont NE and its Surrounding areas and Cities: Inglewood, Cedar Bluffs, Ames, Leshara, Arlington, Fontanelle, Nickerson, Telbasta, and North Bend
