Alzheimer's Awareness Month - How much do you know?

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posted by Ted Ryan on November 13, 2013

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month so we’re taking the opportunity to shed a bit of light on the disease that affects millions of lives.

Alzheimer’s disease is an illness that causes large numbers of nerve cells in the brain to die, affecting a person’s ability to remember things, think clearly and use good judgment.

Alzheimer’s disease often starts slowly and gets worse over time. Early symptoms may be mistaken as signs of normal aging. It’s common to forget a name or misplace things from time to time, but progression of such instances could be a sign of a more serious problem. Below are signs of early and later stage Alzheimer’s to be aware of:

Early Signs

  • Finding it hard to remember things (trouble recalling daily events while long term memory remains intact)
  • Asking the same questions over and over
  • Having trouble paying bills or solving simple math problems
  • Getting lost
  • Losing things or putting them in odd places

Later Signs

  • Forgetting how to brush your teeth or comb your hair
  • Being confused about time, people and places
  • Forgetting the names of common things such as a desk, house or apple
  • Difficulty communicating
  • Wandering away from home

As the illness worsens, most people with Alzheimer’s disease need someone to take care of their needs, including feeding and bathing.

The course of Alzheimer’s disease can vary. If you have questions or would like to arrange a complimentary assessment by a Seniors Home Care nurse, please contact us. We are happy to share our expertise. Additionally, our team of St. Louis’ best-of-the-best caregivers allow seniors with Alzheimer’s to live with dignity in a safe, familiar environment. We’re here to help.

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Alzheimer's and Dementia

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