With a heavy importance placed on our memory care services, we want to continuously educate residents and their families about Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative brain conditions.

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease that is related to dementia. It breaks down connections in the brain between nerve cells, leading to symptoms such as memory loss, difficulty making simple decisions, speech problems, and general confusion. These symptoms worsen over time as more and more brain tissue is lost as a result of the disease.

Warning signs of Alzheimer’s

While Alzheimer’s cannot be cured, its progression can be slowed down and symptoms can be improved. This is more effective is the disease is caught early. With this in mind, here are some warning signs and symptoms you should look out for:

• Personality changes – Alzheimer’s alters the chemistry of the brain, which can lead to changes to the patient’s personality. Sufferers typically see an increase in the following traits: suspicious, hostile, irritable, and even aggressive.
• Forgetfulness – We are all a bit forgetful at times, especially as we age. If you notice a loved one repeatedly asking questions or forgetting the names of people or objects they are familiar with, it may be a warning sign.
• Frequent falling – Alzheimer’s can affect the body’s ability to regulate balance and can impair spatial awareness, leading to more falls.
• Isolation –Alzheimer’s can change the way a person sees themselves and their abilities, and they notice that it’s becoming more difficult to have normal interactions or enjoy old hobbies with friends. Self-isolation is a typical response to this but can do more harm than good.

How to cope if a family member has Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is not only difficult for the person diagnosed with it, but also for those close to that person. If a friend or family member develops Alzheimer’s, the best thing you can do is to be there for them and remain patient with them. You may find them more difficult to talk to as they find it harder to remember details and keep up with conversations, but it is important to still involve them so that they don’t feel too left out.

If you’re looking for specialized memory care for a loved one, take a look at our community online or schedule a tour today.