It is very likely that Alzheimer’s disease will touch our lives in some way. Medical research has made significant progress in the diagnosis and management of this disease. However, cases are on the rise in the US, and Alzheimer’s remains uncurable.
Essential facts about Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias:
- More than 7 million Americans age 65 and older are currently living with Alzheimer’s dementia.
- About 11% of people in the U.S. who are 65 or older have Alzheimer’s dementia.
- The number and percentage of Americans living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias are expected to continue rising.
- In 2024, the estimated cost of medical and long-term care for people with dementia was projected to reach $360 billion.
[SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures]
Alzheimer’s vs Dementia: what’s the difference?
Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of symptoms that includes “difficulties with memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills.” [SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures]
Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that causes dementia. When someone has Alzheimer’s, their brain begins producing an abnormal form of a protein called tau and an excessive amount of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid. Alzheimer’s disease also damages and destroys neurons, or nerve cells, in the brain. These changes contribute to dementia. Dementia that is caused by Alzheimer’s disease is called Alzheimer’s dementia. (SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association, 2024 Alzheimer’s Facts and Figures)
What Causes Alzheimer’s Disease?
Scientists don’t fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s. The cause may be a combination of things, including age-related changes in the brain, genetics, and environmental & lifestyle factors. The National Institutes of Aging states that, “The importance of any one of these factors in increasing or decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s may differ from person to person.” [SOURCE: National Institutes of Aging “Alzheimer’s Disease Fact Sheet”]
Signs of Dementia or Alzheimer’s
The following signs may indicate that someone is suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s:
- Memory loss that disrupts daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
- New problems with words in speaking or writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or Poor Judgement
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood and personality
[SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Association: 10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia]
If you notice any of these signs, you should discuss them with your doctor immediately. If you notice them in a loved one, speak with them as soon as possible.
Speaking with someone you love about dementia
The Alzheimer’s Society (UK) offers the following tips for speaking with someone when you are concerned that they may have dementia:
- Pick a place that is familiar and comfortable
- Choose a time when you won’t be rushed or interrupted
- Choose the words you use carefully
- Be positive
- Listen
[SOURCE: Alzheimer’s Society: Talking to someone about their memory problems]
You might begin the conversation by asking your loved one if they have been feeling differently or if they’ve noticed any changes in themselves. When you describe what you’ve observed, be reassuring and use non-judgmental language. Let them know you love them and are concerned, but don’t say that you are worried that they might have dementia or Alzheimer’s. This could confuse or frighten them. Be respectful and patient. Don’t be surprised or offended if your loved one dismisses your concerns or if they respond with annoyance. Accept that it may take time and more than one conversation before they are ready to seek help.
Resources for Alzheimer’s patients, their families and caregivers
The Alzheimer’s Association website is a valuable resource for Alzheimer’s support, education, and advocacy. Patients, their family members and caregivers can also use The Alzheimer’s Association’s free 24/7 Helpline (800.272.3900). This service connects callers with a live person who can provide information, local resources, crisis assistance, and emotional support.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Capable Care at JEVS Care at Home
JEVS Care at Home supports many people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. We provide training for our caregivers in Dementia Capable Care (DCC), an evidence-based training program that teaches caregivers how to deliver the special care those with dementia need. The program focuses on ways to prevent and respond to many of the behaviors that are common with dementia. These include confusion, agitation, and aggression. Caregivers who receive DCC have knowledge and skills that can help people with dementia live better lives at home.
For more information about our services, contact us today.
