Alzheimer's Disease

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is a sickness that affects the brain. It causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior.

It is not just a normal aging. It is a type of dementia that means it makes it hard for people to remember, learn, and make good decisions.

Who gets Alzheimer's?

Mostly older people usually 65 years or older.

Younger people have been known to get Alzheimer's, but it is rare.

What is the cause of Alzheimer's?

Doctors are not completely sure but they believe:

That there is a buildup of harmful proteins in the brain.

It can run in families.

Old age is the biggest risk factor.

Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking.

What happens to someone with Alzheimer's?

At first, they might forget small things like where they left their keys or what they had just said.

Later, they forget important things like names of family members or how to do daily activities.

They may feel confused or lost even at home.

Their personality or behavior can change. They make it upset easily or not act like themselves.

And later stages, they may need help with everything such as eating, bathing, and using the bathroom.

Is there a cure for Alzheimer's disease?

There are no cures for Alzheimer's disease.

Medications can help slow down the symptoms, and keep the person comfortable.

Scientist s are working hard to find better treatments.

Tips for families and caregivers of the Alzheimer's patient.

Seek a support group within your area. Your doctor,  home health nurse or medical social worker should be able to lead you to a support group.

WONDERING

If your loved one wanders, keep doors locked or use alarms to alert you when the door is opened.

Placing of red and white stop sign on the door, or an area you do not want the Alzheimer's patient wandering into, can often be effective.

Place a ID bracelet on your loved one with their name and phone number.

You can also put the name and phone number on the tags of their clothing.

Let neighbors know about the condition in case they Wonder outside of the house.

BEHAVIORS 

If your loved one gets angry or frustrated:

Stay calm, speaking of soft and gentle voice.

Try to find the calls of their frustration. Are they hungry? Are they thirsty? Are they in pain? Or needing to use the bathroom?

Do not argue or correct them. If they say something that doesn't make any sense, correcting them or arguing with them can make their frustrations worse or bring them to anger.

Use distraction. Distract them with music, photos, or simple activities that they enjoy.

Give them a few minutes alone in a safe place if needed to calm down.

General Caregiver Tips

Keep a routine everyday to reduce confusion.

Brake tasks into small steps and give simple directions.

You short sentences and eye contact when speaking.

Praise and encourage them when they do something well.

Take breaks and ask for help. Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease is a hard work and you need to take care of yourself as well.

When should you call your  Home Health Agency or Physician:

If you notice big Changes in behavior or changes in memory.

If the person falls or has new trouble with walking.

If they are not eating or drinking well.

They become more confused than usual.

They have new or worsening anger, fear, for sadness.

They seem to be sick and maybe vomiting, have a fever, or pain.

If you feel unsafe caring for them alone.

If you have questions about their medications, or care plans.

When to call 911: 

If they have trouble breathing

They have signs of chest pain

They pass out or you cannot wake them up.

They have pain that will not go away.

Key Points 

Alzheimer's is a disease that affects the brain.

It causes memory loss and confusion.

There is no cure, but treatment can help with symptoms.

Family support and safety are very important.

Wondering and anger are coming behaviors, and there are ways to manage them safely.

Call your home health agency if you see any concerning changes, or need any help.