September is Alzheimer's Awareness Month, so let's take a moment to learn about what Alzheimer's disease is, what its signs are, and how we can support those affected by it.
What is Alzheimer's disease? Some of you may have had personal experiences with this condition through loved ones, while others may have seen it mentioned on TV or heard about it but aren't quite sure what Alzheimer's really means. Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that destroys brain cells and is irreversible. Alzheimer's is one of the diseases that can cause dementia and is, in fact, the most common type. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's, there are treatments and brain healthy lifestyle choices that can help manage the disease and slow its progression.
Now that we understand what Alzheimer's is, let's talk about its effects. Alzheimer's impacts how you think, feel, communicate, move, remember things, and behave. The disease generally starts slowly and worsens over time
What changes might you notice in the early stages of Alzheimer's? As the disease begins to set in, you may experience more difficulty with short-term memory, such as remembering things that have recently occurred. Some people with early onset Alzheimer's disease will find it hard to do daily tasks that once took no thinking at all such as banking, grocery shopping or cooking. As Alzheimer's progresses, you might start to feel confused or disoriented. You may struggle to find the right words or have difficulty forming sentences. Daily tasks can become challenging, and making decisions may take more effort.
In the later stages, you may find that you also begin to lose control of your body, and coordinating movements becomes increasingly difficult.
If you are starting to feel the effects of early Alzheimer's disease, it's important to consult with your healthcare professional. Many factors can present symptoms similar to Alzheimer's, so getting a proper evaluation is crucial. It's also important to remember that it is normal to occasionally forget things like calling someone back, where you parked your car, or where you put your keys.
For those supporting a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, the journey ahead can be challenging. Alzheimer's affects not only the person living with the disease but also their loved ones. It can be incredibly challenging to witness the changes in someone you care about as the disease progresses.
Educate Yourself: The first step is to educate yourself on the disease, its progression, and what you can expect as a caregiver. Knowledge is power, and understanding the stages and symptoms can help reduce the stress of the transition.
Plan Early: Arranging financial, legal, and care matters early on allows the person diagnosed to have a say in their future before the disease progresses. This foresight also alleviates some of the burdens on the caregiver, allowing them to focus more on their loved ones rather than on logistical details.
Explore Resources: Learn about available resources early in the process. Look into community programs such as respite care, home care, or day programs that may be available. Being aware of these resources from the start can help ease stress as the disease progresses. Many communities offer excellent options for day programs, respite care, and home care.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer's can be frightening for both the individual and their family or loved ones. It often brings feelings of fear, uncertainty, and sadness. However, the diagnosis can also provide a sense of relief by offering answers to the changes you've noticed in yourself or your loved one. Understanding the reasons behind altered behaviour and feelings can bring some clarity.
Seeking support, finding the right resources, and speaking out about your experiences can guide you through this journey and help alleviate some of the stress involved. Connecting with support groups, healthcare professionals, and community resources early on can make a significant difference.
Remember to be kind to yourself, practice self-care, and reach out for help if you need it.
If you need support, you can:
• Contact CMHA South Cariboo for mental health support at 250-395-4883. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Call the Emergency Crisis Line 24 hours a day at 1-888-353-2273.
Call the Suicide Crisis Line at 9-8-8. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
