Alzheimer is a form of dementia characterized by a progressive memory loss and decline in cognitive abilities, there are other types of dementia that exist with their own distinct causes and characteristics. Hence, dementia is an umbrella term for several diseases characterized by a severe decline in mental abilities.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) “Alzheimer disease is the most common form of dementia and may contribute to 60–70% of cases.” It is currently the seventh leading cause of death and one of the major causes of dependency among older people globally. Older people are more susceptible to Alzheimer’s but not everyone gets Alzheimer’s as they get older.
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that begins with mild memory loss, possibly leading to a decline in the ability to respond to the environment. It deals with the part of the brain that controls thought, memory and language. Unfortunately, scientists are yet to fully understand the disease, but believe there are probably various factors that cause it.
- Age factor: age is the best known cause of Alzheimer’s disease, as it is mostly common in older people and the symptoms get progressively worse with age.
- Genetics: researchers believe that family history plays a role in developing Alzheimer’s disease. But as we all know, your genes do not determine your destiny, living a healthy lifestyle may go a long way in lowering the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers are studying whether other factors such as environment, diet and education play a role in developing Alzheimer’s. There is increased evidence showing that healthy behaviors associated with the prevention of other diseases such as cancer and diabetes also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF ALZHEIRMER’S DISEASE?
- Memory loss: there is a popular misconception that memory loss is a normal part of aging. Forgetting events, repeating yourself, relying on more aides to help with remembrance etc are one of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia.
- Getting lost in familiar places: having trouble navigating through familiar places is another symptom of Alzheimer’s disease, it is an indication of decline in memory and cognition.
- Difficulty executing mundane tasks: a progressive decline in the ability to perform everyday tasks you have carried out for years such as cooking recipes, paying bills, shopping etc.
Having most of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean a definite diagnosis of the disease, it is advised you visit a medical professional for accurate diagnosis. In the meantime, let’s discuss some tips to help navigate having or living with someone with Alzheimer’s disease.
There is currently no treatment available for Alzheimer’s disease but medical management can help improve the quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s disease.
- Keep a routine: maintaining a routine such as bathing, eating, and sleeping at a particular time everyday helps reduce a level of dependency as it allows the individual to know what to expect.
- Keep a notebook: using a notebook to keep track of events, appointments, lists and to even record details about your routine helps serve as a reminder and reduces the time it takes figuring out what to do next.
- Invest in home healthcare services: familiarity is important for people living with Alzheimer’s, investing in home healthcare services allows people to get medical support while surrounded by family and friends in a familiar environment.
If you or someone you know is suffering from memory and cognitive decline and may need home care or assistance with daily living, please visit Vitalis Home Healthcare today. With our team of licensed and professional nurses and care aides, your needs for home care are guaranteed to be taken care of.
Not sure how this process works? Book a free appointment; our Client Care Coordinator is available to chat with you and match you with the service most appropriate for you.
Phone Number: 240.716.6874
Email: info@vitalishealthcare.com
Location: We provide our services in every county in the State of Maryland, United States of America.
Office Address: 8757 Georgia Avenue Suite 440 Silver Spring, MD 20910