It’s National Alzheimer’s Disease Month—Do You Know the Signs?

Home Care Hanover PA :Seniors and Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s disease is a serious problem for aging relatives and their family caregivers. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease is the 6th largest cause of deaths in the United States. One in every three older adults dies with Alzheimer’s disease or some other kind of dementia. There are currently 5.7 million Americans with the disease and the number is projected to rise to almost 14 million by 2050. Because of its prevalence, it’s important that family caregivers recognize the signs that an older adult could have Alzheimer’s disease. Below are some common early signs that you shouldn’t ignore.

Forgetting New Information

Not remembering recently learned information is a common sign of the disease. Older adults may forget important dates, repeatedly ask others for the same information, or begin to rely more and more on memory aids, like writing lists or setting reminders.

Withdrawing from Activities

Someone with Alzheimer’s may seem like they’ve lost interest in their usual activities or like they have less energy to devote to them. They may not spend as much time engaging socially. Instead, you may notice them spending more time than before just sitting and watching television or sleeping.

Lose Objects

Older adults with the disease may lose their possessions frequently. And, when the object does turn up, it may be in an unusual place. For example, a senior with Alzheimer’s might lose their glasses only to open the freezer and find them there.

Trouble Completing Tasks

The senior may begin to have difficulty doing tasks that are familiar to them. They might be unable to handle their finances. Or, they might get lost driving to places they have frequented, such as the grocery store.

Being Confused About Time or Place

Alzheimer’s can cause people to become confused about where they are and misunderstand time. They might forget what season it is or not be able to understand an event that is not currently happening.

Older adults with Alzheimer’s disease can benefit greatly from home care. Home care providers can help them to remain in their house or in the house of a relative for longer. Home care providers can keep seniors with Alzheimer’s from engaging in unsafe behaviors, like wandering. They can also make sure the person is comfortable and happy by cooking healthy meals, doing activities with them, and keeping them socially involved. Home care can also assist with basic care such as dressing, eating, bathing, and toileting.

If you or an aging loved one are considering in-home Home Care in Hanover, PA, please talk to us. Our friendly staff can answer all of your questions.  In-home Senior Care in Adams and York Counties, PA. Call Today: (717) 698-8258

Sources https://www.webmd.com/alzheimers/guide/understanding-alzheimers-disease-symptoms#1https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures