Alzheimer’s is a deadly disease among older adults characterized by memory loss, among other symptoms. According to studies, Alzheimer’s is one of the leading causes of death among older adults. The disease affects not only the victim but also the people looking after them. It has no cure, but it is crucial to understand the symptoms, changes, and dangers. Understanding this disease is critical to the safety and health of any Alzheimer’s patient. So, here are vital things you should know about Alzheimer’s.
Many people use Alzheimer’s and dementia interchangeably. However, there is no significant difference, only that Alzheimer’s is among the numerous types of dementia. It is characterized by memory loss and a decline in cognitive abilities. Alzheimer’s manifests itself in older adults in the following ways.
- Change in thinking ability
- Memory loss
- Poor focus and attention
- Change in behavior
- Poor judgment and reasoning
- Change in language
As mentioned, Alzheimer’s is a common type of dementia affecting many older adults. The disease is progressive, meaning the patient gets worse as time goes by. This is due to a continued shrinking of brain cells. That means that adults with Alzheimer’s require special care that keeps changing as the disease progresses. Therefore, it is always a burden for most people to look after the patient’s well-being. The best solution is usually seeking Senior Care Potomac MD to ensure the patient gets the support they need.
Signs of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, which means the symptoms change and vary with individuals. However, you can notice Alzheimer’s with these common signs.
- Memory loss
- Taking longer to handle simple tasks like bathing or eating
- Wandering or getting lost
- Poor judgment leading to bad decisions
- Misplacing things in odd places
- Trouble handling bills and money
- Spontaneity loss
- Repeating questions
- Mood swings
- Increased irritation and anxiety
- Personality changes
- Forgetting things like eating
These symptoms are mild during the early stages of the disease. However, they manifest more with progression. Eventually, the patient may be unable to manage normal tasks like eating or dressing.
Caring for Alzheimer’s Patients
Addressing Alzheimer’s as soon as you notice the early symptoms is crucial. Even though it will not cure the disease, early treatment can slow its progression. Soon, the patient will require special care to keep them safe and healthy. Most people prefer staying at home where they are familiar with everything and close to their loved ones. However, they will need home care to manage issues like poor eating habits, wandering, medication, and basic activities like dressing and bathing. Capital City Nurses offers professional in-home care to assist older adults with Alzheimer’s from the comfort of their homes.
Professionals can help Alzheimer’s patients lead a healthy and happy life by supporting them and looking after their needs. In most cases, the victims’ families find it hard to cope because the symptoms keep progressing and the level of care the loved one needs continue to change. Furthermore, Alzheimer’s causes unpleasant behaviors that not everyone can understand. Therefore, senior professional care is often seen as the best solution to ensure the person with Alzheimer’s is leading a happy life.
Summary
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that poses various challenges to the patient and their loved ones. Therefore, considering senior care services is always the best option since professionals can meet the patient’s demands.
