June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer affects roughly 5.8 million Americans and that number will likely increase in future years. The disease typically affects individuals 65 and older, and those with a family history of the condition.
To help raise awareness this month, we wanted to share some helpful information we found on the Alzheimer’s Association website about the symptoms of Alzheimer’s to help you better understand and recognize its early signs:
Early Signs of Alzheimer's
- Memory Loss: This symptom can manifest itself in ways you may not expect. Short-term memory loss may include forgetting information that was recently communicated, asking the same question multiple times, or putting items in the wrong place (i.e. putting keys in the refrigerator). It’s important to note that many older adults occasionally forget information, even if they don’t have Alzheimer’s, but when these symptoms impact their daily routine, it may be an early sign of the disease.
- Visual Challenges: This could mean trouble determining distance, colors, or difficulty with reading or writing. As Alzheimer’s progresses from mild to moderate, a loved one may also experience hallucinations.
- Difficulty Understanding Time and Place: This doesn’t mean occasionally forgetting the day of the week. It’s more specific than that. It may mean forgetting what year it is, what season it is, or not knowing where you are. Some seniors living with Alzheimer’s may think they’re in their living room while they are at the supermarket, or they are living in their childhood home.
- Personality Changes: In many cases, a loved one with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s will experience increased anxiety, sadness, anger, frustration, or even aggression.
There are multiple stages of this disease. For more information visit the Alzheimer’s Association website or the Mayo Clinic. Although this disease significantly affects an individual’s quality of life, it’s important to remember that it is possible for your loved ones to continue living in their home, provided they have access to the right memory care nurses and family caregivers.
To learn more about homecare services for individuals living with Alzheimer’s, contact Best Home Care today!
