Alzheimer’s is an irreversible, progressive disorder that slowly affects patients’ memory, decision making and behaviour. Therefore, as the symptoms begin to worsen, care is crucial as patients become unable to live alone or with their family.
With this in mind, what do know about Alzheimer’s disease?
How Does Alzheimer’s Disease Progress?
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia which progresses mainly through three general stages which are known as early, middle and late.
In the early stage, sufferers will still function independently but they will often experience memory lapses which could be as simple as forgetting words.
The middle stage is the stage that lasts the longest and can last for a number of years. The symptoms become more recognisable and can mean that individuals are unable to say words, can get angry and might refuse to do certain things. Commonly, they are forgetful, withdrawn and moody. The can still take part in day to day activities to a limited extent, but need assistance with an increasing number of tasks.
By the late stage, patients lose the ability to communicate, become unaware of their surroundings and struggle with movement. They still benefit from interaction but need a significant amount of care, 24 hours a day.
How to Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease
While there is no cure for the disease, it is important to understand that a healthy diet can help. It has been found that omega-3 fats can benefit brain function while a diet that is rich in fruit and vegetables, especiallly leafy greens, aids memory. The risk of Alzheimer’s disease can increase if an individual is overweight and there is research to suggest that keeping active can help to improve cognitive function.
What are the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?
There are ten signs that you should be aware of when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease.
1. Memory loss – Individuals might forget names or appointments or might repeat the same questions over and over.
2. Struggle with solving problems – They might find that they are unable to follow a plan or work with figures. This could be keeping on top of bills or taking longer to learn things
3. It’s a challenge to complete familiar tasks – This could involve forgetting how to use a phone or directions to a location they know well.
4. Confusion with dates and time – Individuals might struggle with remembering dates or the day of the week.
5. Problems with visual images and spatial relationships – They might experience problems with their balance or reading or they could struggle to judge distances.
6. Problems with words when speaking or writing – They might have problems finding the right word or even naming an object they are familiar with
7. Losing things – it is common for individuals to put things in unusual places or forget where they might have put them.
8. Poor judgement – They might have problems making judgements or decisions such as looking after themselves or forgetting to carry out a routine task.
9. Shying away from social activities – People can become withdrawn from social situations and avoid holding conversations.
10. Mood changes – Their mood and personality can change, they can become confused, worried, anxious and even fearful.
What Helps Alzheimer’s Patients?
Aside from medication that can be used to help ease the symptoms and manage the behavioural issues, sufferers can attempt to keep themselves mentally active. They can play games, sing, learn new things and keep themselves challenged.
Is Alzheimer’s Disease Inherited?
Familial Alzheimer’s disease is a very rare type that is passed down through genetics after being inherited from a parent. This form of the disease only makes up around 2-3% of cases and it is believed that those who have a mutation in one to three genes known as PS1, PS2 and AAP are likely to develop the condition. If individuals have one parent diagnosed with the disease, the children have a a 50% chance of inheriting it.
How Long Does it Take to Diagnose Alzheimer’s Disease?
There is no timeframe placed on diagnosing it but healthcare professionals will carry out the relevant process. They will take a look at the patient’s medical history and then carry out physical and diagnostic tests which may include asking about diet and medication, checking blood pressure, heart and lungs as well as taking blood and urine samples followed by some simple memory and thinking tasks. If required, a more in-depth examination will take place during which a specialist will carry out cognitive assessments. Finally, brain scans may be carried out to check for other potential causes of the symptoms or to determine the severity and progression of the disease.
Care At Home For Dementia Patients
Our dementia care in Trafford and the surrounding area can enable an Alzheimer’s sufferer to stay at home for as long as possible, as remaining in their familiar environment can avoid additional confusion at a difficult time. Specially trained carers help to take the strain off family members who can start to feel overwhelmed as symptoms worsen. It’s important to find a care agency that can tailor their services to the needs of the individual and their family. It may be that you only need a few hours a week to begin with, to give family and friends a break, progressing to more regular help and then to round the clock dementia care as the condition progresses.