Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month was created to raise consciousness and understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. The gradual decline of brain cells is the root cause leading to eventual dementia, and today nearly seven million people live with the disease—the majority of whom are 75 and older. The Alzheimer’s Association forecasts that by 2050 this number will rise to more than 12 million people in the U.S.
My mother is among those Alzheimer’s statistics. It’s why I am so passionate about educating the public. I have seen firsthand its crippling physical, emotional, and psychological effects and how families struggle to find strength and resources needed when a loved one is diagnosed.
Signs and Symptoms
Alzheimer’s disease is generally detected after age 65, but this catastrophic illness can begin as early as age 40. One of the early, more common signs is an inability to pay bills, double pay or forget to pay. People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s can also be easily manipulated on the phone because of declining cognitive awareness. Another sign is getting lost when going for groceries or running a simple errand. In addition, there’s often a noticeable lack of personal hygiene.
There’s a huge difference between normal aging and forgetfulness versus Alzheimer’s. An example of a normal lapse in memory would be forgetting something, but recalling your intentions within a few seconds, as opposed to an Alzheimer’s episode such as going somewhere, getting lost and not returning.
Some patients in rehab centers may display advanced degrees of decline in their behavior and cognitive and physical failings. Triggers might include being in an unfamiliar place, lacking a routine, caretakers constantly changing, and the patient being out of their element. Sedentary lifestyles have become more prevalent in recent years, and in the long run this has a negative effect on overall health. After the onset of Alzheimer’s, the average longevity is between eight and 10 years.
Music and Brain Games
Beyond comforting touches and daily routines, music is a great resource that evokes emotions and memories. Musical intervention decreases a patient’s agitation and improves communications and caregiver relationships. My mother recognizes certain songs she liked, and I play certain soothing melodies to relax her when she’s overly frustrated or agitated. White music improves sleeping, while pink music is more soothing and relaxing.
Playing chess is a great way to keep the brain engaged and healthy. Working puzzles or other memory games is vital to brain health. AARP members can access that organization’s website where multiple games and challenges are available to keep the brain sharp.
Acceptance and Care
It’s difficult to see a person who is an integral part of one’s life deteriorate, so it’s not unusual that family members find it very hard to cope with Alzheimer’s disease. Accepting the illness is the first step, and then you must plan for how to get through it. At Conviva Care Centers, we offer socialization at all our wellness centers with various programs, which can help ward off memory loss. Our wellness centers play a huge role in helping keep senior patients engaged with others and avoiding social isolation.
When caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s, simplicity is key. Make sure your loved one wears clothing that isn’t too tight or complicated to remove. Personal hygiene is vital, so make sure nails are short and trimmed for cleanliness and safety. At night, be sure to close shades, but keep the room lit with low light.
A person living with Alzheimer’s is existing in a new reality, and coping will require reassurance, consideration, understanding and patience. Know when to ask for help. Research the resources and support groups available. Information for family and caregivers is available from the Alzheimer’s Association at 800-272-3900.
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