Anyone who has a loved one who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease knows that it affects more than the person afflicted with the disease. All those who love and care for the person are also affected. Because of the prevalence of Alzheimer’s, it is important to understand the disease and its risk factors and treatment, as well as the support and resources available for caregivers. They are the ones who have to cope with the significant emotional toll that comes with dealing with an unforgiving and often fatal disease. And you never know when Alzheimer’s will strike in your family.
 According to the Alzheimer’s Association, as many as 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease today. Alzheimer’s is an often fatal disease that attacks the brain, progressively destroying brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior, which worsen over time. The onset of Alzheimer’s disease usually brings a gradual decline in mental functions, often beginning with slight memory loss, followed by losses in the ability to maintain employment, plan and execute familiar tasks, and exercise reason and judgment. People may also experience a change in communication ability, mood and personality.
In addition to memory loss, there are many different symptoms or behaviors that could be telling signs that a loved one may have Alzheimer’s. People with the disease often experience difficulty performing familiar tasks, forgetting simple words or substituting unusual words or phrases, and becoming disoriented to time and place. If you recognize any of these symptoms in a loved one, it would be best to contact a physician.
Since people with Alzheimer’s often experience poor or decreased judgment and changes in mood, behavior and personality, it may be necessary for caretakers to assist in various capacities, such as food shopping, cooking, house cleaning, paying bills, giving medicine, bathing, dressing, and providing company and emotional support.
 While there are consistent symptoms among those suffering from Alzheimer’s, every person with the disease is unique and will respond differently; therefore, caretaking methods may change over time or vary depending on the patient. Upon diagnosis, it is important to gain as much information about the disease as possible. Doctors can provide background information and also inform you of community groups that may offer classes to teach caregiving, problem-solving and management skills.
It can be very difficult and overwhelming at times to take care of a person with Alzheimer’s disease. According to the National Institute on Aging, research has shown that caregivers themselves are often at increased risk for depression and illness, especially if they do not receive adequate support from family, friends and the community. Caregivers should consider using adult day care or respite services to ease the day-to-day demands of caregiving. These services allow caregivers to have a break, while knowing that his or her loved one is receiving quality care.
While every caregiver’s experience is different, medical professionals recommend certain techniques for interacting with a person with Alzheimer’s, such as:
• using simple words and short sentences;
• using a gentle and calm tone of voice;
• calling the person by name;
• allowing the person enough time for a response during verbal interaction; and
• being careful not to interrupt.
It is helpful to engage a person with Alzheimer’s disease in a regular activity or incorporate hobbies or projects the person seems to enjoy into your daily routine. This will provide a creative outlet for both the caregiver and patient. It is important for the caregiver to watch for signs of agitation with an activity and gently help or distract the person to something else if they become increasingly frustrated.
 Unfortunately, there is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease at this time. However, treatments for symptoms, coupled with the appropriate services and support, can alleviate the stresses and struggles of living with Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists worldwide are conducting research to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset or prevent it from developing.
General healthy aging is critical for keeping the brain healthy and possibly offering some protection against the development of Alzheimer’s disease. It is important to keep your weight within recommended guidelines, avoid tobacco and excess alcohol, stay socially connected, and exercise both your body and mind. Evidence suggests that people who exercise regularly into their later years are less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
The Alzheimer’s Association has developed a checklist of common symptoms to help you recognize the difference between normal age-related memory changes and possible warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. To view the checklist, visit the Alzheimer’s Association Web site at www.alz.org.
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