Memory loss is the most common symptom of Alzheimer’s, and almost everyone who is diagnosed with this disease is going to develop memory issues at some point. Seniors with Alzheimer’s won’t be able to avoid memory loss forever, but they can do quite a bit to boost their brain health as long as they catch the disease in its earliest stages. Here’s a closer look at why Alzheimer’s leads to memory loss and what can be done to delay this symptom.
Understanding Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that kills off brain cells and synapses. Researchers haven’t figured out exactly what causes this condition, but they’ve identified a few of the most common risk factors, including acute brain injuries, substance abuse, cardiovascular disorders, sedentary lifestyles, and depression. Alzheimer’s usually develops around the age of 65, but some people notice the early warning signs in their 40s and 50s.
Alzheimer’s & Memory Loss
As Alzheimer’s progresses, the brain loses its ability to flush out tangles of proteins known as plaques. Over time, those plaques attach themselves to various parts of the brain and kill off the nearby soft tissue. The hippocampus is the area of the brain that’s closely associated with memory functions, and it’s usually the first structure attacked by the plaques. Alzheimer’s can damage other areas of the brain as well, which is why many seniors experience a wide array of symptoms, ranging from mood swings to balance issues.
Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable elderly home care. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.
Catching the Early Warning Signs
Treatments for this disease are more effective than ever, and many seniors with Alzheimer’s enjoy long and fulfilling lives as long as they’re diagnosed early on, which is why you must keep an eye out for any warning signs that your loved one could be developing this disease. In addition to memory loss, you might also notice your loved one having difficulty with daily tasks such as paying bills or making meals. He or she might lose track of dates and times as well, and you must schedule an appointment with a neurologist if you notice any of these issues.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior home care Barrie, ON, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Preserving Memory
There isn’t a permanent cure for Alzheimer’s, but researchers have made some huge strides in this field. With a comprehensive treatment plan, your loved one may be able to preserve his or her memory for several years, which could enhance his or her quality of life. Immediately following the diagnosis, you need to speak with your loved one’s doctor about a treatment plan, which will most likely include lifestyle changes, medications, and various therapies. Keeping your loved one physically active can greatly boost his or her cognitive health as well. You should also make sure your loved one continues to socialize with friends and family as much as possible.
Without the right assistance, Alzheimer’s can be challenging for seniors and their families to manage. If you’re looking for professional Alzheimer’s care, Barrie Home Care Assistance provides high-quality care aging adults and their families can count on. All of our hourly and live-in caregivers are trained to help seniors with Alzheimer’s live happier and healthier lives, and we also provide specialized dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care. To learn more about our reliable, compassionate in-home care services, contact us at 647-970-3803 today.