50 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

1. Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects a person’s brain.
2. Alzheimer’s slowly makes it harder to think, learn, remember and make decisions.
3. Alzheimer’s has no cure.
4. There are medications that may help ease some of the symptoms.
5. No one knows what causes Alzheimer’s disease.
6. A family history of Alzheimer’s can be a risk factor for developing the disease.
7. The biggest known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is aging itself.
8. Nearly half of all people age 85 and older have the disease.
9. There are two types of Alzheimer’s disease—early-onset and late-onset.
10. Early-onset Alzheimer’s occurs in people younger than 60.  It is linked to a family history of Alzheimer’s.
11. Late-onset Alzheimer’s may or may not be inherited.  It occurs in people 60 and older.
12. Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include getting lost in familiar places or having problems doing everyday tasks.
13. Dementia is a term used to describe memory loss and confusion.
14. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, but other conditions can also cause it.
15. Parkinson’s disease, stroke and brain injuries can all cause dementia.
16. Dehydration, reactions to medications and head injuries can all cause temporary dementia.  This kind of dementia can be treated and often cured.
17. Many people misplace items or forget people’s names.  This does not mean they have Alzheimer’s disease.
18. If memory loss begins to interfere with daily living, Alzheimer’s could be the reason.
19. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can be different for different people.
20. If you notice symptoms of dementia in yourself or someone you care for; consult a health care professional.
21. Doctors diagnose Alzheimer’s disease by eliminating other causes of dementia.
22. Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s is important.
23. Early diagnosis means you can take advantage of medications and treatments.
24. An early diagnosis means a person can make medical and financial plans for their future care.
25. People with Alzheimer’s will need a power of attorney for financial and medical decisions.
26. They will also need a will and an advanced directive or living will.
27. Alzheimer’s is progressive.  This means symptoms get worse over time.
28. As the disease progresses, people often have trouble with the concept of time and numbers.
29. Personality changes, such as an increase in anger, anxiety and depression, are common.
30. A person in the later stages of Alzheimer’s may wander.
31. A person in the later stages may no longer recognize loved ones.
32. A person with Alzheimer’s may be unable to care for him or herself.
33. The average length of Alzheimer’s disease varies.
34. Scientists are learning more about the disease all the time.
35. With more knowledge, new treatments may become available.
36. Knowing that memory loss and confusion are due to a disease may help a person cope with these often scary changes.
37. Understanding Alzheimer’s can help if you have a loved one with the disease.
38. If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s you will need to change what you expect from the person.
39. Being flexible is key to coping with the changes caused by Alzheimer’s. 
40. Having information about the disease can help you adapt.
41. Most people with Alzheimer’s live at home with family and friends providing much of their care.
42. Alzheimer’s affects family members and friends as well as those with the disease.
43. Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can be difficult.
44. Caregiver support groups can help.
45. It is important for caregivers to eat right, exercise and get enough rest.
46. All caregivers need help.
47. Caregivers can get help from other family members, friends or community organizations.
48. Many communities offer support services such as meal delivery, in-home care, transportation, adult day care, or respite care.
49. Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area is a good place to find resources.
50. You don’t have to do it alone.  If Alzheimer’s disease is affecting your life, you can take steps to ease the suffering this disease can cause.

 For more information, contact us at Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area
(225) 334-7494 or our website: www.Brhope.com