Parents Diagnosed with Dementia or Alzheimer’s; What is it, and what is next?

A parent or loved one is not able to remember things like he or she used to. Misplaced keys, frustration trying to remember the simplest of task lists; as the decline continues, your loved one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer's. What is Alzheimer’s? How is it different from Dementia?

Dementia is a non-reversible decline in mental function; the word is a catchall phrase that encompasses several disorders that cause symptoms including but not limited to: chronic memory loss, personality changes, and impaired reasoning. Alzheimer’s Disease is just one of those disease types.

Alzheimer’s Disease was first described in 1906 by Dr. Alois Alzheimer in his patient “Auguste Deter.” Medical experts and researchers continue to work to identify the disease and its symptoms each day. Stage One, Preclinical Alzheimer’s includes zero to very mild cognitive decline. Stage Two, Mild to Moderate Cognitive Decline, includes noticeable difficulty with memory and concentration that progresses over several years. Stage Three, Severe Cognitive Decline consists of the inability to communicate or perform personal care; and a decline in physical abilities. Changes include the loss of coherent speech; trouble controlling bowels; wandering; and weight loss.

What can I expect? How will I care for my loved one? Just a few of the questions family members and friends will ask after a diagnosis. While you may be experiencing a feeling of worry for your loved one, Madonna Heritage is available as a resource to help guide you through your loved one’s care. We understand the emotional stress that comes with a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Our assisted living home offers three levels of care that will allow for his or her care needs to increase as the disease progresses. To learn more about how we will care for your loved one who has Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia, schedule a tour today.