Living with Alzheimer’s
What is Dementia?
Many people believe dementia and Alzheimer’s are the same. Before we discuss what dementia is, let’s determine what it is NOT. Dementia is NOT a diagnosis. Dementia IS an umbrella term that describes symptoms. When you have dementia, at least two parts of your brain are dying. Dementia is a chronic, progressive disease in your brain. Dementia is also terminal.
Because each type of dementia affects people differently, it is important to consult a physician if you are concerned you or a loved one may be experiencing symptoms of dementia. Knowledge is power! Your doctor will use medical history, mental status tests, physical and neurological exams, diagnostic tests and brain imaging to determine a diagnosis.
What is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s is one type or diagnosis of dementia. Some symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s are a decline in memory, reasoning or other thinking skills. Alzheimer’s is a specific brain disease that accounts for 60–80% of dementia cases.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, it “is a degenerative brain disease that is caused by complex brain changes following cell damage.” Cell damage results from built-up plaque and tangles in the brain that disrupt normal brain activity. This disruption results in cells dying; the outward symptoms include memory failure, personality changes and difficulty with daily activities. Scientists continue to research what causes the plaque and tangles.
How does Alzheimer’s progress?
Many people will live with undiagnosed, asymptomatic pre-clinical Alzheimer’s for many years. Typically Alzheimer’s progresses through three stages.
The Alzheimer’s Association refers to three stages of the disease.
Early Stage (Mild). In this stage the individual living with Alzheimer’s may have occasional confusion, difficulty finding important items or trouble remembering new names and new information. They will typically be able to cope, but this is the point where end-of-life and estate planning should take place so that they can have a voice in the conversation.
Middle Stage (Moderate). In this stage, the individual living with Alzheimer’s may confuse words or become angry and act in unexpected ways. They may also have trouble remembering personal details like their address, phone number, the college they attended or even what day it is. Greater attention to care and an increased level of care is essential in this stage as wandering, not recognizing an object or how to use it safely, a decline in ability or desire for personal care and incontinence become common. Because the person living with dementia is experiencing a high level of loss it’s important to focus on the things they can still do and help them live with resilience and purpose as long as they can.
During the middle stage, around-the-clock care is required. Loved ones often become the care partners. During this stage, it is extremely important for the care partner to have support in place not only for their loved one but also for themselves. There are many options to support home care. Adult Day Services, At Home support, and Memory Care provide out-of-home options.
Late Stage (Severe). In the last stage, the person living with Alzheimer’s will lose their ability to interact with their environment; while they may have some words or phrases, it will be difficult for them to communicate like they once did, especially where and when they have pain. Communication can still be accomplished, but it will often be in forms other than with words. 24/7 care will be critical to their care and comfort. Family can reassure the person living with Alzheimer’s during this stage by simply spending time with them and offering a gentle touch or reassurance of love and support.
(To read more symptoms, review this page on the Alzheimer’s Association website.)
Where can I get help?
Alzheimer’s Association and Alzheimer’s Foundation of America provide online support groups. Retirement communities and senior centers as well as your local Office of Aging can also connect you to local, in-person support groups where you can connect with others walking the same journey as well as professionals who can guide you to helpful resources.
You can also seek education via in person or online seminars. A wealth of reading is also available online and through to help you understand what you may be experiencing personally.
Melody Karick, dementia educator and consultant for ForgeWorks, provides dementia training for businesses, churches, municipalities, first responders and families. Her certifications include Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Montessori Dementia Care Practitioner, Personal Care Health Administrator, Virtual Dementia Tour Certified Trainer, Positive Approach to Care.
