Alzheimerʼs disease (AD) is a condition that causes abnormal changes in the brain mainly affecting memory and other mental abilities, which impacts a person’s independence. Consequently, they may need care at home. Alzheimerʼs is a disease, not a normal part of aging. Loss of memory is the usual first symptom. As the disease progresses, the loss of reasoning ability, language, decision-making ability, judgment, and other critical skills make navigating day-to-day living impossible without help from others, most often a family member or care agency. Sometimes, difficult changes in personality and behavior occur. Professional caregivers are equipped to handle these challenges.

Alzheimerʼs disease poses real challenges for both the person diagnosed with AD and to those who assume caregiving responsibilities. AD often develops gradually, offering time to adjust to the diagnosis, plan ahead, and spend quality time together. At present there is no single test that leads to a diagnosis of AD. The doctor first needs to establish that the memory loss is abnormal and that the pattern of symptoms fits AD. This may require specialized memory testing. The doctor then needs to rule out other illnesses. During this time, someone may progress from one stage of AD to another, and need care at home. A home care agency offers the security of care services and other services for seniors so that family members don’t burn out. 

Alzheimer’s disease is called a family disease, because the chronic stress of watching a loved one slowly decline affects everyone. An effective treatment will address the needs of the entire family. Caregivers must focus on their own needs, take time for their own health, and get support and respite from caregiving regularly to be able to sustain their well-being during this caregiving journey. Emotional and practical support, counseling, resource information, and educational programs about Alzheimer’s disease all help a caregiver provide the best possible care for a loved one.

When you’re starting out as a family caregiver, it’s hard to know where to begin. Perhaps you’ve only recently realized that a loved one needs assistance and is no longer as self-sufficient as he or she once was. Or perhaps there has been a sudden change in their health. Whatever the situation, home care services from a care agency can take some of the stress off of family members. The earlier you get support, the better.

Source: https://www.caregiver.org/alzheimers-disease-caregiving

Alzheimer’s disease is called a family disease, because the chronic stress of watching a loved one slowly decline affects everyone. An effective treatment will address the needs of the entire family.