Alzheimer Disease is a grim diagnosis that affects close to 30 million people across the globe, affecting not only individuals but their immediate and extended families, taking both an emotional and temporal toll. The sad truth is that Alzheimer's currently has no known cause and no cure.
But the outlook does not have to remain so bleak. Some basic Alzheimer Awareness can help you feel more optimistic and confident about facing the future. I can convey some information to you, but for more complete professional assistance, contact an Alzheimer's Resource Center.
In most cases, Alzheimer Disease is not diagnosed in people under the age of 65, and, though rare, sufferers can live up to 14 years after the onset of symptoms. While symptoms will undoubtedly worsen over this span of time, there is no reason not to expect the affected individual will live to a ripe old age, and the overt signs of dementia can be tamed in the earliest stages with the help of qualified medical professionals.
Early diagnosis is one of the best ways to be able to take action and assist your loved one in maintaining some degree of independence while still allowing them to get the care they need. However, the initial stages can be mistaken for normal signs of aging or simple stress. Subtle cognitive impairments begin to manifest, meaning the patient forgets recently learned information.
Normal attentiveness, ability to plan, abstract thinking, and semantic memory tend to go at the beginning, too. Emotionally, apathy can be present. It is best to encourage the affected person to have a frank discussion with his or her doctor. Escort him or her to the appointment if necessary. Be aware that the patient may be resistant, so you may have to give him or her space and time to take action on their own.
More often than not, the spouse or a child of the sufferer becomes the primary caregiver, which is a stressful role to take on. So after the diagnosis should come serious discussions with any other candidates for that position, including your siblings.
Of course, you need to do what is best for the family you have created. Some sacrifices may be necessary, but if it becomes too much to handle, then you need to consider consulting an outside company to transition care over to professionals, whether that be in-home nurses or a nursing home.
There are some tough times on the road ahead, but again, if you get in touch with an Alzheimer's Resource Center near you, then you can find sympathetic experts to give you the best direction to help your loved one.