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Learn the Basics about Alzheimer's
Disease
SHELTON, CT, December 27, 2007 – Millions
of individuals today are caring for aging family members
with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.
In fact, more than five million Americans now have Alzheimer's
disease, which destroys brain cells and causes problems
with memory, thinking and behavior. One of the best
things caregivers can do is to learn what they can about
the disease. Here are some of the basics:
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The symptoms of Alzheimer's
vary from person to person but include gradual memory
loss, a decrease in a person's ability to perform
familiar tasks, disorientation, difficulty learning
new skills, loss of language skills, impaired judgment
and personality changes. If you recognize any of
these symptoms in a loved one (especially progressive
changes), do not dismiss them as part of the normal
aging process. They are signs that your loved one
needs to be evaluated for Alzheimer's disease or
dementia.
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In seeking a cause and cure,
researchers have identified three definite risk
factors: age, family history and genetics. Age is
the greatest risk factor and the vast majority of
people who have Alzheimer's disease are older than
65. Family history and genetics also play a role,
as scientists have observed that Alzheimer's patients
are more likely to have a relative with the disease.
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Those with Alzheimer's disease
may eventually fail to recognize family members
and people they've known for many years; may repeat
stories or actions monotonously; might even invent
words, making communication difficult; hygiene is
often neglected and assistance with personal care
is required.
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Alzheimer's disease is a
progressive brain disease and is not currently curable.
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Consult your doctor if your
loved one:
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Asks the same question over
and over again.
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Repeats the same story,
word for word, again and again.
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Forgets how to do activities
that were previously done with ease and regularity
(e.g., how to cook, play cards, etc.).
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Gets lost in familiar surroundings
or misplaces household objects.
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Neglects to bathe or wears
the same clothes again and again.
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Relies on somebody else,
such as a spouse, to make decisions or answer questions
that previously would have been handled alone. |
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LifeCare's Successful
Aging & Caregiving series was created for
reporters who write about aging, adult caregiving and
other challenges of mid-life. Reporters may reprint
the information presented here in whole or in part,
with attribution to LifeCare, Inc.
If you would like more information about a particular topic
or wish to speak to one of LifeCare's Successful AgingSM experts,
please contact Michael Civiello, manager—marketing and media relations,
at 203-291-4170 or pr1@lifecare.com.
About LifeCare®,
Inc.
LifeCare offers cost-saving benefits that help clients
reduce their most pervasive absenteeism and productivity
drains, including child and elder care, caregiving support,
health and wellness issues, and more. For more than
two decades, LifeCare has led the work/life industry
in the creation of high-quality, results-oriented programs
designed to improve our clients' bottom line. LifeCare
serves 1,500 client companies with 4.5 million individuals
within corporations, health plans, government agencies
and unions. For more information, visit www.lifecare.com.
Media contact: Michael Civiello
LifeCare, Inc.
pr1@lifecare.com
203-291-4170
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