If you&#8217;re searching for books on Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, you&#8217;ll find an extensive list of choices. How can you narrow it down? Here is Alzheimers.net&#8217;s list of best Alzheimer&#8217;s books.



You&#8217;ll find Alzheimer&#8217;s books written from many different perspectives, including caregivers, family members and physicians. Reading as much as you can about the disease obviously helps you learn more about its stages. But it also provides support. The right book can lift you in times of great struggle and help you cope.



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img src="https://img.qa.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Top-Alzheimers-Books-for-Caregivers.jpg" alt="Top Alzheimer's Books for Caregivers"/></figure>



What books have people found most useful? Our&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/aplaceformom/posts/10153608252130109" target="_blank">Facebook fans</a>&nbsp;submitted their favorites, and we added to the list.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.amazon.com/The-36-Hour-Day-fifth-Alzheimer/dp/1421402807" target="_blank">The 36-Hour Day: A Family Guide to Caring for Persons With Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease, Related Dementing Illnesses, and Memory Loss in Later Life</a>&nbsp;(Nancy L. Mace and Peter V. Rabins): Considered the definitive guide on caring for people with dementia, The 36-Hour Day was originally published in 1981. Since then, it&#8217;s undergone several revisions to ensure that it provides the most up-to-date information on causes of dementia, how to manage early stages of dementia, finding <a href="https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/2013-11-15-memory-care-reinventing-assisted-living/">long-term care options</a> for people with dementia and more.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://books.google.com/books?id=5pNuhG9DtaQC&amp;pg=PA19&amp;lpg=PA19&amp;dq=boundless+grace+alzheimer%27s&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=v2RkNfDURh&amp;sig=bs7A4ZoUifLK41QC2EsLEQRz9NU&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=kzvGUuv1B9jboASR14GYDQ&amp;ved=0CDcQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&amp;q=boundless%20grace%20alzheimer's&amp;f=false" target="_blank">Boundless Grace: Devotions From a Caregiver&#8217;s Heart</a>&nbsp;(Lois Carter): This author tells how faith in God inspired her in caring for her mother through the difficult stages of dementia. It includes descriptions of how dementia affects people differently and how looking for those cheerful moments in the midst of the struggle can make all the difference.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.amazon.com/Creating-Moments-Person-Alzheimers-Dementia/dp/1557534624" target="_blank">Creating Moments of Joy for the Person With Alzheimer&#8217;s or Dementia: A Journal for Caregivers</a>&nbsp;(Jolene Brackey): A touching look at how to make the most of the moments you have with someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s, this book describes memory as a series of moments. And it helps educate people on the needs of a person with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.amazon.com/Chicken-Soup-Golden-Soul-Heartwarming/dp/1623610885/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1388722395&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=chicken+soup+for+golden+soul" target="_blank">Chicken Soup for the Golden Soul</a>&nbsp;(Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen and Paul J. Meyer): The&nbsp;Chicken Soup series comes highly recommended by our Facebook fans. In this particular collection, you&#8217;ll find stories from seniors such as Erma Bombeck, Tom Landry and Roy Rogers, who share their experiences through the golden years.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.amazon.com/Inside-Alzheimers-Nancy-Pearce/dp/0978829913" target="_blank">Inside Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> (Nancy Pearce): Aimed at caregivers, this book stresses the importance of connecting with Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. And how building these connections can help create <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-12/building-dementia-friendly-communities/">a more supportive care community</a>. It also provides exercises to help exhausted caregivers energize their spirits.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://www.insidedementia.com/" target="_blank">Inside the Dementia Epidemic: A Daughter&#8217;s Memoir</a>&nbsp;(Martha Stettinius): Chronicling her experience as her mother&#8217;s caregiver for eight years, Stettinius candidly portrays the challenges she faced and how she sought help. She structures the story in five parts, each one dedicated to the type of care her mother required as her dementia progressed, and tells an inspiring story of what <a href="https://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/interview-author-acclaimed-dementia-caregiving-book-03-21-2013/">life as a caregiver</a> is really like.



What are your favorite Alzheimer&#8217;s books?



<h2>More Articles:</h2>



<ul><li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-30/history-of-alzheimers/">History of Alzheimer&#8217;s: Major Milestones</a></li><li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-27/how-is-alzheimers-treated/">How is Alzheimer&#8217;s Treated?</a></li><li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-12-26/best-alzheimers-blogs-from-2013/">Best Alzheimer&#8217;s Blogs from 2013</a></li></ul>

Top Alzheimer's Books

If you're searching for books on Alzheimer's disease, you'll find an extensive list of choices. How can you narrow it down? Here is Alzheimers.net's list of best Alzheimer's books.

Although Alzheimer’s is a global epidemic, recent studies are showing that women bear a disproportionate burden of the disease. The reason for this remains largely unclear, but an increasing body of research is taking a closer look at Alzheimer&#8217;s in  all women.
Learn more about the impact of the disease on women and the studies that are seeking to understand why.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s in Women</h2>
Two-thirds of the 5.7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s are women. It was previously thought that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-12-15-why-is-alzheimers-more-likely-in-women/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-12-15-why-is-alzheimers-more-likely-in-women/">women were at an increased risk</a> for the disease because they typically live longer than males, and age is the main risk factor for developing the disease.
<blockquote>However, researchers now believe that there are biological and social determinants involved. Women also bear the Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiving burden, with 60% of caregivers being female.</blockquote>
Rebecca Edelmayer, director of scientific engagement at the Alzheimer’s Association, remarks:
“Women are at the epicenter of Alzheimer’s disease as both persons living with the disease and as the caregivers of those with dementia. Over the last three years, the Alzheimer’s Association has invested $3.2 million into 14 projects looking at <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/a-greater-focus-on-gender-in-alzheimers/">sex differences for the disease</a> and some of the findings today may explain risk, prevalence and rate decline for women.”
<h2>2019 Alzheimer&#8217;s Studies Focus on Differences in Gender</h2>
In response to the burden that Alzheimer&#8217;s is placing on women, several studies are now focusing on why there is such a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/gender-gaps-in-alzheimers-research/">gender gap</a> when it comes to the disease.
From biological differences to lifestyle choices, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/nextavenue/2019/07/28/new-research-sheds-more-light-on-alzheimers-in-women/#1e37a3a741e9" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">these studies</a> seek to understand (and ultimately bring relief) to women:
<ol>
<li>A study from the University of California at San Diego School of Medicine used data from brain scans and found that women were able to metabolize glucose more efficiently, which could help them compensate for damage caused by Alzheimer&#8217;s and retain cognitive function, delaying an early dementia diagnosis. When the disease is not diagnosed in its early stages, the person with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia is less likely to benefit from clinical trials or therapies that could slow its progression.</li>
<li>A study from Vanderbilt University found abnormal tau protein in the brain may be wider <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-progression-discovered/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-progression-discovered/">spread among various brain regions</a> in women than men. Using <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-brain-map-published-by-scientists/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-18-16-researchers-diagnose-alzheimers-from-brain-scans/">brain imaging technology</a>, researchers found that women who had mild cognitive impairment (MCI) had more tau present as well as a quicker spread of tau across more brain regions compared to men with MCI.</li>
<li>Yet another study evaluated socioeconomic factors finding that women who worked steadily experienced a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s, especially among married mothers. The study found that women between the ages of 60 and 70 who were married mothers and never worked were 61% faster than married mothers who continued to work.</li>
</ol>
As research continues to reveal more about the differences between men and women, scientists are seeking to understand how the brain structural differences between genders impact the risk of Alzheimer’s.
It’s increasingly clear that Alzheimer&#8217;s research cannot take a gender-neutral approach and scientists will need to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">consider gender moving forward</a>.
Why do you think there is a higher prevalence of Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia in women than men? We&#8217;d like to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/a-greater-focus-on-gender-in-alzheimers/">A Greater Focus on Gender in Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/gender-gaps-in-alzheimers-research/">Gender Gaps in Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-12-15-why-is-alzheimers-more-likely-in-women/">Why Is Alzheimer’s More Likely in Women?</a></li>
</ul>

2019 Studies Shed Light on Alzheimer's in Women

It&#8217;s no secret that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Researchers previously attributed this to the&nbsp;longevity of women,&nbsp;but scientists are finding that there may be other contributing factors to the disease.
Learn more about the new studies and what may be causing more women to suffer from Alzheimer&#8217;s.&nbsp;
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Is More Likely in Women</h2>
While Alzheimer&#8217;s is indiscriminate, recent studies have found that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-19/women-at-higher-risk-for-alzheimers/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">women are bearing a disproportionate amount of the Alzheimer&#8217;s burden</a>:
<ol>
<li>Aside from the fact that 60% of all Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers are women, at the age of 65, women have a 1 in 5 chance of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s, compared to a 1 in 11 chance for men.</li>
<li>Additionally, out of the 5 million people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s in the U.S., 3.2 million are women.</li>
<li>Research has found that women in their 60s are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer&#8217;s than to develop breast cancer.</li>
</ol>
Maria Carrillo, chief science officer for the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association, said of these risks:
<blockquote>&#8220;There are enough biological questions pointing to increased risk in women that we need to delve into that and find out why. There is a lot that is not understood and not known. It&#8217;s time we did something about it.&#8221;</blockquote>
Taking action, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association brought together 15 of the world&#8217;s leading scientists to look further into why <a href="https://boston.cbslocal.com/2015/06/29/why-are-most-alzheimers-patients-women/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s is more likely in women</a>, stating that &#8220;researchers are now questioning whether the risk of Alzheimer’s could actually be higher for women at any given age due to biological or genetic variations or differences in life experiences.&#8221;
<h2>Risk Factors Beyond Longevity</h2>
Until now, the gap had been largely attributed to the longevity of women, since age is the number one risk factor for Alzheimer&#8217;s.&nbsp;<a href="http://bigstory.ap.org/article/b66758b1efeb46cead426a622247dda0/new-questions-about-why-more-women-men-have-alzheimers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Roberta Diaz Brinton</a>,&nbsp;a University of Southern California professor who studies gender differences said, &#8220;It is true that age is the greatest risk factor for developing Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.&#8221; But she went on to say, &#8220;on average, women live four or five years longer than men and we know that Alzheimer&#8217;s is a disease that starts 20 years before the diagnosis.&#8221;
Thus far, genetic studies have&nbsp;offered a&nbsp;startling account for the difference. Researchers from <a href="http://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2014/04/14/having-a-copy-of-apoe-gene-variant-doubles-alzheimers-risk-for-women-but-not-for-men/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Stanford University studied over 8,000 people looking for a form of the gene </a><a href="http://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2014/04/14/having-a-copy-of-apoe-gene-variant-doubles-alzheimers-risk-for-women-but-not-for-men/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ApoE-4</a>, a gene that increases the risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s. They found that women who carry a copy of that particular gene variant were twice as likely to eventually develop Alzheimer&#8217;s as women without the gene. Men who had the gene were only at a slightly increased risk than men who did not have the gene. While it is not clear why the gene poses such a drastic increase in risk, Brinton believes it may be how the gene interacts with estrogen.&nbsp;
Another study suggests that it may be related to heart health. A study from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/massachusetts/framingham/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Framingham, Massachusetts</a> suggests that because men are more likely to die from heart disease in middle age, those men who live past 65 may have healthier hearts which may protect the brain from Alzheimer&#8217;s.&nbsp;These two diseases share many risk factors including high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity.
Exactly why women are bearing the Alzheimer&#8217;s burden remains yet to be determined. Carrillo pointed out that 40 years ago, no one understood how heart disease affected women and says:
<blockquote>&#8220;How do we make sure we&#8217;re not making that mistake when it comes to Alzheimer&#8217;s?&#8221;</blockquote>
What do you think about the link between Alzheimer&#8217;s and women? Have you seen any other&nbsp;contributing causes that create an&nbsp;increased risk for the disease? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/a-greater-focus-on-gender-in-alzheimers/">A Greater Focus on Gender in Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/gender-gaps-in-alzheimers-research/">Gender Gaps in Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
</ul>

Why Is Alzheimer's More Likely in Women?

It’s no secret that women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers previously attributed this to the longevity of women, but scientists are finding that there may be other contributing factors to the disease. Learn more about the new studies and what may be causing more women to suffer from Alzheimer’s.  Alzheimer’s Is More Likely in […]

The international campaign sponsored by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), &#8220;World Alzheimer&#8217;s Day&#8221; is a global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that surrounds dementia. 
Learn more about September 21, 2019, World Alzheimer’s Day, and how you can make a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2015-09-03/september-world-alzheimers-month/">positive impact for a cure this month</a>.
<h2>A Global Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease</h2>
The lack of awareness surrounding Alzheimer’s disease and related forms of dementia is a global problem. In fact, every two out of three people around the world believe there is little or no understanding of dementia in their countries. World Alzheimer’s Day on September 21 strives to raise awareness of the global Alzheimer’s epidemic.
Statistics from the <a href="https://www.alz.co.uk/research/statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.co.uk/research/statistics">World Alzheimer&#8217;s Report</a> show that the Alzheimer’s epidemic is rising across the world:
<ul>
<li>By 2050, the number of people living with dementia is expected to rise to 131.5 million</li>
<li>If global dementia were a country, it would have the 18th largest economy in the world</li>
<li>Someone in the world develops dementia every three seconds</li>
<li>The annual cost of the global Alzheimer’s epidemic exceeds the market values of Apple and Google</li>
<li>There are over 9.9 million new cases of dementia each year</li>
</ul>
While these <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">statistics are shocking</a>, the unfortunate truth is that only 20-50% of dementia cases are recognized, with the treatment gap being even larger in low-income countries.
<h2>Fighting Alzheimer’s Stigma on World Alzheimer&#8217;s Day</h2>
There’s no doubt that the Alzheimer’s epidemic is a global threat to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-09-16-dementia-financial-costs-take-toll-on-families/">financial</a>, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">mental</a>, and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/ways-physical-therapy-slows-the-symptoms-of-alzheimers/">physical health</a>. So, how do you affect global change locally?
Try these ideas on September 21 and take a step towards a cure:
<h3>1. Call your local representative.</h3>
Pick up the phone or write a letter to your Congressperson and let them know that you care about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/senate-approves-425-million-increase-for-alzheimers-research/">government funds being directed to Alzheimer’s research</a>.
<h3>2. Host an awareness event for your community or workplace.</h3>
Bring in a guest speaker to your local community venue or workplace. Have pamphlets, a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-contribute-to-alzheimers-research/">way for people to donate to the cause</a>, and even a Q&amp;A forum for people to ask questions about the disease. This will give people a safe place to learn the truth about Alzheimer’s and dementia.
<h3>3. Participate in a Walk to End Alzheimer’s.</h3>
The <a href="https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=walk_homepage" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://act.alz.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=walk_homepage">Walk to End Alzheimer’s</a> is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s disease care, research, and support. It is held annually in over 600 communities across the United States. Find a walk in your community, register, and start fundraising!
<h3>4. Share your story.</h3>
One of the most powerful ways to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-4-14-destigmatizing-alzheimers/">combat the stigma</a> surrounding Alzheimer’s is to share your own story. It may seem small to you, but when we speak the truth about our journeys and lives with dementia, it changes the way people see the disease. It attaches a face and name to a global epidemic and that can evoke a global movement.
<h3>5. Wear purple.</h3>
Purple is the chosen color of Alzheimer’s disease. To <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">raise awareness</a>, wear purple and let people know why.
How will you raise Alzheimer’s awareness and funds this World Alzheimer’s Day? Share your ideas and stories with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">Alzheimer’s Statistics</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2015-09-03/september-world-alzheimers-month/">Make a Difference During World Alzheimer’s Month</a></li>
</ul>

September 21 Marks World Alzheimer's Day

The international campaign sponsored by Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), “World Alzheimer’s Day” is a global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma that surrounds dementia. Learn more about September 21, 2019, World Alzheimer’s Day, and how you can make a positive impact for a cure this month. A Global Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease The […]

Last Updated: August 29, 2019
September is World Alzheimer&#8217;s Month and it&#8217;s an ideal time to get involved, help raise awareness and show support so we can one day find a cure for the disease. 

When my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease in 2005, it suddenly all made sense. She hadn&#8217;t been herself for some time, but the decline had been subtle and so, it was difficult to diagnose. I was sad but I was mostly empathetic for her as I knew her life&#8217;s memories were fading fast. What I didn&#8217;t know was that I was just one of 44 million people across the globe that would be personally affected by this devastating disease.
<h2>Millions of Families Affected by Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
When a parent or senior loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s, it&#8217;s heartbreaking.
As the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">sixth leading cause of death in the United States</a>, Alzheimer&#8217;s currently affects one in every nine people age 65 or older — roughly 5 million people, although misdiagnosis means that as many as half don&#8217;t know it. By 2050, nearly 14 million Americans could be living with the disease, unless researchers develop new approaches to prevent or cure it.
<blockquote>Each day is another opportunity to get involved in making a difference.</blockquote>
So what can you do?
<h2>6 Ways to Make a Difference During World Alzheimer&#8217;s Month</h2>
Let others know that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/get-involved-in-national-alzheimers-disease-awareness-and-family-caregivers-month/">they are not alone in this</a>. Help raise awareness by donating to this great cause, wearing purple or participating in an Alzheimer&#8217;s walk.
Share your stories and find strength with others. The more everyone knows about Alzheimer&#8217;s, the more support there will be in finding a cure.
Here is how you can help make a difference:
<ol>
<li>Donate to the cause: Every bit counts on the way to finding a cure: <a title="Alzheimer's Organization Donate" href="http://www.alz.org/join_the_cause_donate.asp?type=homepage-donate-list-link" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Donate today</a>.</li>
<li>Focus on prevention: Sign up to make an impact on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/clinical-trials/">Alzheimer&#8217;s research</a> at the Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention Initiative.</li>
<li>Generate buzz on social media: Turn your Facebook and Twitter profile photos to the END ALZ Icon.</li>
<li>Join a walk: Find a <a href="http://act.alz.org/site/PageServer?pagename=walk_search" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Walk to End Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> near you.</li>
<li>Share your stories: Honor a loved one by sharing your story and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/best-alzheimers-support-groups/">joining an Alzheimer&#8217;s community</a> for information and to seek support from others who have been affected by this disease.</li>
<li>Show your true colors: Wear purple throughout World Alzheimer&#8217;s Month.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Those Who Are Changing the Face of Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Actor Seth Rogen and his wife, Lauren Miller, whose mother was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer&#8217;s at age 55, are actively trying to change the face of the disease.
As <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-28/seth-rogen-speaks-about-alzheimers/">Rogen states</a>, Alzheimer&#8217;s has an &#8220;image problem&#8221; as an &#8220;older person&#8217;s disease.&#8221; But this simply isn&#8217;t true. Younger people need to be actively involved in generating awareness for this disease.
The more we talk about this disease and the more we do to let people know this is an everyone problem, not an &#8220;old person&#8217;s problem,&#8221; the less negative stigma there will be.
<blockquote>Learning is empowering, and we can make September a month of sharing all that we know about this disease. Together, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/finding-alzheimers-hope-and-inspiration/">we can make a difference</a>.</blockquote>
Today is a new day and each day we can do something to help change these perceptions.
What will you do to help make a difference during World Alzheimer&#8217;s Month? Share your stories and suggestions with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">Alzheimer&#8217;s Statistics</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/get-involved-in-national-alzheimers-disease-awareness-and-family-caregivers-month/">How to Get Involved in National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Make a Difference During World Alzheimer's Month

Last Updated: August 29, 2019 September is World Alzheimer’s Month and it’s an ideal time to get involved, help raise awareness and show support so we can one day find a cure for the disease. When my grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2005, it suddenly all made sense. She hadn’t been herself for some time, […]

Last Updated: August 22, 2019
During our Alzheimer&#8217;s disease journey, one of my greatest fears was that Mom might develop an issue necessitating a hospital stay. Just the thought of it made my hair stand on end. I couldn&#8217;t imagine having to remove her from familiar surroundings where she felt reasonably safe most of the time — only to put her into a completely foreign environment full of strange people having no idea how to relate to her. 
Fortunately, we never did face this issue, but I&#8217;ve heard some tales that confirm my fears were not without merit. Learn more about &#8220;<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-26-14-hospital-wristbands-dementia-care/">Purple Angels</a>&#8221; and how they are providing a solution to this growing issue.
<h2>Hospital Stays and Purple Angels for Dementia</h2>
Gary Joseph LeBlanc is the author of the books&nbsp;&#8220;Managing Alzheimer&#8217;s and Dementia Behavior,&#8221; &#8220;Staying Afloat in a Sea of Forgetfulness,&#8221; and co-author of &#8220;While I Still Can,&#8221; as well as the founder of the <a href="http://www.commonsensecaregiving.com/dementia-hospital-wristband-program.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s/Dementia Hospital Wristband Project</a>, which is currently being piloted at <a href="https://www.bayfrontbrooksville.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bayfront Brooksville Hospital</a> in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/florida/brooksville/">Brooksville, Florida</a>.<img class="size-medium wp-image-68405 alignright" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Study-Reveals-That-Appreciation-Lowers-Level-of-Burden-for-Spousal-Caregivers-300x158.jpg" alt="Study Reveals That Appreciation Lowers Level of Burden for Spousal Caregivers" width="290" height="153" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Study-Reveals-That-Appreciation-Lowers-Level-of-Burden-for-Spousal-Caregivers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Study-Reveals-That-Appreciation-Lowers-Level-of-Burden-for-Spousal-Caregivers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Study-Reveals-That-Appreciation-Lowers-Level-of-Burden-for-Spousal-Caregivers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 290px) 100vw, 290px" />
Inspiration for the program came through his own experience as his father&#8217;s primary caregiver and the hospital stays that he characterizes as &#8220;complete nightmares.&#8221; The fact is, patients are not always identified as memory-impaired, and even when they are, hospital staff rarely has the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/caring-for-someone-with-dementia/">training required</a> to understand their unique needs.
<blockquote>His project ensures that upon admission, patients with a prior dementia diagnosis have &#8220;Purple Angels&#8221; added to their standard-issue hospital wristband. A second Purple Angel is placed on their door so that anyone entering is immediately alerted to their condition and knows they should approach the patient with this in mind.</blockquote>
The Purple Angel logo is an internationally accepted symbol for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/alzheimers-statistics/">Alzheimer&#8217;s awareness</a>, and LeBlanc emphasizes that use of one standard symbol across all healthcare systems is a key to the project&#8217;s success.
<h2>The Importance of Dementia Education and Training in Hospitals</h2>
The presumption is that by making sure healthcare and hospital staff are <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-screenings-overlooked-during-senior-wellness-exams/">aware of underlying dementia diagnoses</a>, misunderstandings will be reduced and agitation and confusion can be appropriately addressed, leading to more compassionate, effective care.
<blockquote>Being mindful of the patient&#8217;s condition also ensures that special precautions can be taken to minimize falls and wandering and address <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/understanding-the-challenging-behaviors-of-dementia/">signs of aggression</a>, feelings of abandonment, and sundowning.</blockquote>
Another essential piece of the equation is education, so LeBlanc is partnering with the <a href="http://www.alz.org/flgulfcoast/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association-Florida Gulf Coast Chapter</a> to develop half-day training seminars for first responders, hospital staff, and volunteers. Ideally, anyone who might interface with a person with dementia will be trained on how to approach and interact with them, with one end goal in mind — providing the best care possible.
The Alzheimer&#8217;s/Dementia Hospital Wristband Project is receiving enthusiastic support from the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association, as well as many other organizations and experts in the area of dementia care. Let&#8217;s hope that one day soon, every hospital staff member across the United States will not only recognize purple angels and their significance but also have the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-technology-can-help-people-with-alzheimers-avoid-emergency-rooms/">training and tools needed to provide world-class dementia care</a>.
Would you support the adoption of purple angels in hospitals in your area? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-screenings-overlooked-during-senior-wellness-exams/">Alzheimer’s Screenings Often Overlooked During Senior Wellness Exams</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-26-14-hospital-wristbands-dementia-care/">Hospital Wristbands for Dementia Care</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-technology-can-help-people-with-alzheimers-avoid-emergency-rooms/">How Technology Can Help People With Alzheimer’s Avoid Emergency Rooms</a></li>
</ul>

How Are Purple Angels Improving Hospital Stays for Dementia?

Last Updated: August 22, 2019 During our Alzheimer’s disease journey, one of my greatest fears was that Mom might develop an issue necessitating a hospital stay. Just the thought of it made my hair stand on end. I couldn’t imagine having to remove her from familiar surroundings where she felt reasonably safe most of the […]

Many Americans are turning to technology in hopes of detecting or preventing medical conditions or diseases, like Alzheimer&#8217;s. More than just expensive, emergency room visits for senior loved ones with the disease can be confusing and traumatizing. 
Learn more about the importance of avoiding unnecessary trips to emergency rooms for loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">how technology is helping families do just that</a>.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s and Emergency Rooms</h2>
Often <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/things-caregivers-should-know-about-alzheimers-risks/">loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia end up in the emergency room</a> (ER) because an incident occurs after normal office hours or a lack of urgent care appointments available. However, because of the nature of the disease, it can be very confusing and traumatizing.
<blockquote>There’s no doubt that the ER is a chaotic place. Things happen fast in an ER, and rightfully so. Unfortunately, the sounds of patients in pain, pages, and the constant movement can be challenging for someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s, even devolving into delirium. It can also be hard for loved ones to answer the questions posed by medical workers, further contributing to the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">confusion of a person with dementia</a>.</blockquote>
A 2018 study published in the <a href="https://www.managedhealthcareconnect.com/articles/dementia-and-er-toxic-combination" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.managedhealthcareconnect.com/articles/dementia-and-er-toxic-combination">Annals of Long-Term Care</a> concluded that “Perhaps we need to reconsider whether the ER is an appropriate site of care for patients with dementia. The expansion of house-call practices that bring both providers and technology to the patient, rather than the patient to the provider, may be an alternative to ER care. Providers should also consider earlier initiation of palliative care for patients with dementia. These approaches might better serve patients with dementia, their families, and the health care system.”
<h2>Technology for Early Alzheimer&#8217;s Detection</h2>
One way that caregivers and senior loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s are avoiding costly trips to emergency rooms is through early detection and preventative care. Ultimately, early detection can help families coping with dementia make a long-term care plan that encompasses financial, mental, physical, and social needs. This can also help reduce family costs by being prepared for an emergency, before it happens, potentially <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/21/business/medical-technology-ai-tests.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">avoiding a costly visit to the ER</a>.
“Technology every day is playing a more important role in preventing and even <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-is-alzheimers-diagnosed/">diagnosing illness</a>,” said Gary Shapiro, chief executive of the Consumer Technology Association and author of “Ninja Future: Secrets to Success in the New World of Innovation.” “We are just beginning this journey of revolutionizing health care and reducing trips to the doctor.”
<blockquote>Voice analysis <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-22-14-technology-for-dementia/">technology is one developing area for early detection of Alzheimer’s</a> and related forms of dementia. Using hundreds of metrics, including breathing, pitch, tone, and word choices, voice analysis technology is being used to detect changes consistent with dementia.</blockquote>
“We look at about 540 different metrics,” said Liam Kaufman, chief executive, and co-founder of Winterlight Labs, whose firm focuses on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-27-15-detecting-alzheimers-decades-early/">detecting cognitive medical conditions</a>. “We published several studies in 2015 and 2016 that found we could predict Alzheimer’s at the time with 82% accuracy — and today we’re at about 93%,” he said.
Has your parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s needed emergency care? Share your personal experiences with loved ones with the disease in emergency rooms and any tips you may have in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-27-15-detecting-alzheimers-decades-early/">Detecting Alzheimer’s Decades Early</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/9-22-14-technology-for-dementia/">7 Technological Innovations for Those With Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/things-caregivers-should-know-about-alzheimers-risks/">Things Caregivers Should Know About Alzheimer’s Risks</a></li>
</ul>

How Technology Can Help People With Alzheimer's Avoid Emergency Rooms

Many Americans are turning to technology in hopes of detecting or preventing medical conditions or diseases, like Alzheimer’s. More than just expensive, emergency room visits for senior loved ones with the disease can be confusing and traumatizing. Learn more about the importance of avoiding unnecessary trips to emergency rooms for loved ones with Alzheimer’s disease […]

Last Updated: August 13, 2019
When you think a loved one has Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, it can be tempting to look for an easy and quick diagnosis. While new research shows potential to diagnose Alzheimer&#8217;s through simple tests, such as <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-3-14-blood-test-detects-alzheimers-early/">blood tests</a> or <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-22/diagnose-alzheimers-through-retina-test/" target="_self" rel="noopener noreferrer">retina tests</a>, actually diagnosing the disease requires a careful medical evaluation by a skilled physician. 
Learn more about how Alzheimer&#8217;s is diagnosed and what to do if you think your parent or senior loved one has the disease.
<h2>How Alzheimer&#8217;s Is Diagnosed by a Doctor</h2>
At one time, an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis was only able to be confirmed after a person had passed away and doctors were able to perform an autopsy on the brain. Today, however, a <a href="http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_diagnosis.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">physician can diagnose the disease </a>with 90% accuracy while the person is still living.
It is important to note that there is no single test that can diagnose Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia.
A medical evaluation will often include the following:
<h3>1. Patient history.</h3>
At this stage of diagnosis, the doctor will speak with the patient, family, and friends to gain an understanding of:
<ul>
<li>The development of symptoms</li>
<li>The family&#8217;s health history</li>
<li>The patient&#8217;s emotional/mental state</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Physical examination.</h3>
A physical examination includes taking the patient&#8217;s blood pressure, heart rate, temperature and evaluating hearing and sight. Lab tests, such as blood or urine tests, may also be taken that would eliminate any other cause of Alzheimer&#8217;s symptoms. In addition, doctors may request brain scans such as a CT, MRI or PET scan.
These scans could help doctors rule out other reasons for dementia symptoms, such as a brain tumor.
<h3>3. Neuropsychological testing.</h3>
At this stage, doctors will assess a patient&#8217;s mental status by asking a series of questions. Some basic questions asked in this test are:
<ul>
<li>Can you count backward from 100?</li>
<li>Do you know where you are?</li>
<li>What is today&#8217;s date?</li>
</ul>
While the diagnosis process can seem daunting, the benefits of early diagnosis can not be overstated. Be on the lookout for these <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-31/10-early-alzheimers-warning-signs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">signs of Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> and take action quickly if necessary.
How was your loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/an-alzheimers-diagnosis-without-memory-loss/">An Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Without Memory Loss</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/diagnosis-is-it-alzheimers-or-another-dementia/">Diagnosis Matters: Is It Alzheimer’s or Another Dementia?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-31/10-early-alzheimers-warning-signs/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">10 Early Signs of Alzheimer&#8217;s You May Have Missed</a></li>
</ul>

How Alzheimer's Is Diagnosed

Last Updated: August 13, 2019 When you think a loved one has Alzheimer’s disease, it can be tempting to look for an easy and quick diagnosis. While new research shows potential to diagnose Alzheimer’s through simple tests, such as blood tests or retina tests, actually diagnosing the disease requires a careful medical evaluation by a skilled physician. […]

A recent report from the Alzheimer’s Association found that less than half of primary care physicians surveyed routinely tested patients age 65 and older for cognitive issues, despite 10% of people over 65 having Alzheimer’s disease. 
Learn more about the lack of cognitive testing in routine care and why advocates are calling for Alzheimer&#8217;s screenings to be part of senior wellness exams.
<h2>Research Shows Lack of Alzheimer&#8217;s Screenings During Wellness Exams</h2>
According to a new report from the <a href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures-2019-r.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/media/Documents/alzheimers-facts-and-figures-2019-r.pdf">Alzheimer’s Association</a>, 91% of seniors receive blood pressure checks and 83% receive a cholesterol test at their annual exam. However, less than half of primary care doctors included in the survey said they routinely test patients over 65 for cognitive issues.
<blockquote>Only 16% of seniors surveyed said they receive regular cognitive assessments during routine health exams and only 25% of seniors reported that a health care provider has ever asked them if they have any concerns about their thinking or memory.</blockquote>
Keith Fargo, director of scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association, remarks, “This <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-28-15-SAGE-alzheimers-examination/">cognitive assessment</a> should be part of every senior’s annual wellness visit. But we’re seeing that it’s simply not happening.”
There’s no question that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-16/10-early-alzheimers-warning-signs/">early diagnosis</a> is key to managing and mitigating the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. However, because doctors often skip Alzheimer&#8217;s evaluations, many seniors are only diagnosed after the disease has progressed too far to make plans or participate in a clinical trial.
<h2>What Will It Take to Make Cognitive Testing Routine?</h2>
Four out of five seniors believe it’s important to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-18-15-normal-aging-vs-dementia/">have cognitive tests</a> just as they have other physical health aspects checked. Reportedly, 94% of primary care physicians agreed that it is important to assess every patient 65 years old and older for cognitive decline as well. So, why are Alzheimer&#8217;s screenings not a part of routine care?
One common reason may be that doctors fear they will harm a patient by doing an assessment that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-family-relationships-and-roles-change-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">reveals a cognitive issue</a>. To test this, a team of researchers conducted a study to see if patients were harmed by Alzheimer&#8217;s screenings. They found that was no increase in rates of anxiety or depression in older adults who were screened for cognitive decline.
Another reason may be that cognitive testing has yet to show a clear benefit. The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force claims there is insufficient <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/03/05/700524630/alzheimers-screening-often-left-out-of-seniors-wellness-exams" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">evidence on Alzheimer&#8217;s screenings</a> to assess if it does more harm or more good. Dr. Sheryl Sun, chief of internal medicine at Kaiser Permanente, says it’s hard to justify the limited time in an appointment to do a cognitive assessment. She says, &#8220;If you spend time doing things of questionable value, you might not get to the things that are of proven value.”
Do you think Alzheimer&#8217;s screenings should be a part of routine care? Would you want to know if you were in the early stages of dementia? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-27-15-detecting-alzheimers-decades-early/">Detecting Alzheimer’s Decades Early</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-16/10-early-alzheimers-warning-signs/">10 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s You May Have Missed</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-28-15-SAGE-alzheimers-examination/">Self-Administered Gerocognitive Examination Promises to Detect Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's Screenings Often Overlooked During Senior Wellness Exams

A recent report from the Alzheimer’s Association found that less than half of primary care physicians surveyed routinely tested patients age 65 and older for cognitive issues, despite 10% of people over 65 having Alzheimer’s disease. Learn more about the lack of cognitive testing in routine care and why advocates are calling for Alzheimer’s screenings […]

If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may have wondered at one point in time, how likely the disease is to be passed on genetically. Which inheritable traits should families know about and should you pursue genetic testing?
Learn more from a recent Harvard Health article that provides the answers to these and other common questions about the genetic link to Alzheimer’s.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s and Inheritable Traits</h2>
Just how likely are family members of those with Alzheimer&#8217;s to get the disease themselves? &#8220;People think that if Dad and Mom or an aunt or uncle had Alzheimer&#8217;s, they are doomed. But, no, that&#8217;s not true,&#8221; says Dr. Gad Marshall, assistant professor of neurology at <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/alzheimers-in-the-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Harvard Medical School</a>.
<blockquote>&#8220;Even though family history adds to the overall risk, age still usually trumps it quite a bit. It means your risk is higher, but it&#8217;s not that much higher if you consider the absolute numbers.&#8221;</blockquote>
As Dr. Marshall notes, the most common form of the disease is age-related Alzheimer’s, which means the risk of the disease comes from a person’s age and not their <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-genes-help-us-better-understand-risk/">genetic predisposition</a>. The older a person is, the higher risk they have of getting Alzheimer’s, and this pertains to everyone, whether they’ve had a family member with the disease or not.
The statistics show that after age 65, everyone develops a 2% increased risk per year of getting diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s.  Other Harvard Health statistics show that:
<ol>
<li>A family history of Alzheimer’s raises the yearly 2% risk factor to approximately 2.6%, so the overall relative risk does not rise dramatically. “That means going from 20 cases in a group of 1,000, to 26 in 1,000, or six additional cases in 1,000, so the absolute increase is relatively small,&#8221;  Marshall explains.</li>
<li>People in their 70s with a family history of Alzheimer’s have a 6.5% risk, compared to the general population with a 5% risk, so again, the genetic linked risk factors are relatively small.</li>
<li>The overall risk of getting Alzheimer’s increases by approximately 30% for those who have a close relative who has been diagnosed with the disease. Harvard Health warns that this is a “relative risk increase, meaning a 30% hike in your existing risk.”</li>
<li>Those who live to be 70 have a 5% chance of getting Alzheimer’s, so that number represents a higher risk than those who are in their 60s with a family history of the disease.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Inheriting the &#8220;Alzheimer&#8217;s Gene&#8221;</h2>
The gene that is largely responsible for increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s is called the Apolipoprotein E gene, or the apoE4 gene for short. This gene is involved in making a protein that helps carry cholesterol (and other fats) and vitamins throughout the body (including the brain). This gene variant does not cause Alzheimer’s, but rather, is thought to increase the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-tailor-approach-to-alzheimers/">risk of getting the disease</a>.
<blockquote>Although it’s not completely clear exactly how the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/healthy-lifestyle-changes-improve-cognition/">apoE4 gene</a> increases the risk of getting Alzheimer&#8217;s, scientists believe it is associated with multiple factors, including environmental factors (like smoking or pollution), genetics and lifestyle factors (such as diet and exercise).</blockquote>
Inheriting one copy of the &#8220;Alzheimer&#8217;s gene&#8221; from one parent is said to raise the risk of getting Alzheimer’s and getting two copies (which is extremely rare) increases <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/personalized-treatments-could-be-the-key-to-alzheimers/">a person’s risk</a> even more. But, it’s very important to understand that not everyone who gets the apoE4 gene will be diagnosed with the disease.
<h2>Taking Part in Genetic Testing</h2>
After questioning the likeliness of inheriting Alzheimer&#8217;s, perhaps the second most common question is: “Should I take part in genetic testing?” <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/alzheimers-in-the-family" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Marshall</a> answers this question, saying, &#8220;It&#8217;s not going to be helpful since it won&#8217;t tell you whether you will develop the disease. It will only tell you if you are at a greater or lower risk.&#8221;
<blockquote>Dr. Marshall elaborates, saying that often the testing is complex and that many companies are ill-equipped to perform the testing. He also points out that if a person does test positive for a genetic form of Alzheimer&#8217;s (like early-onset familial Alzheimer&#8217;s), it could impact their ability to procure some types of insurance.</blockquote>
In conclusion, it’s always best to consult with a professional, such as a trusted healthcare provider, before considering any type of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/is-alzheimers-genetic/">genetic testing</a>.
Does the &#8220;Alzheimer&#8217;s gene&#8221; run in your family? Which inheritable traits are you most concerned about? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/personalized-treatments-could-be-the-key-to-alzheimers/">How Personalized Treatments Could Be the Key to Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-genes-help-us-better-understand-risk/">Newly Discovered Alzheimer’s Genes Help Us Better Understand Risk</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-tailor-approach-to-alzheimers/">Scientists Tailor Approach to Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's: Inheritable Traits That Family Members Should Know About

If you have a family member who has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may have wondered at one point in time, how likely the disease is to be passed on genetically. Which inheritable traits should families know about and should you pursue genetic testing? Learn more from a recent Harvard Health article that provides […]

A research team led by the University of Miami’s Hussman Institute for Human Genomics analyzed the genetic makeup of more than 94,000 people clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and discovered four new genetic variants that increase the risk of the disease. 
Learn more about the study, its groundbreaking findings, and how it will impact <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/fda-modernizes-approach-to-alzheimers-research/">future Alzheimer’s research</a>.
<h2>Four Alzheimer&#8217;s Genes Discovered in Recent Study</h2>
The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-019-0358-2" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-019-0358-2">Nature Genetics</a>, is the second genome-wide association study to be done with people clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3896259/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3896259/">first study</a> was completed in 2013 and analyzed 75,000 people, identifying 11 gene locations previously not associated with the development of Alzheimer’s. This more recent study added 30% more data to the analysis, verifying 20 previously found genes and adding four additional Alzheimer&#8217;s genes to the progression of the disease.
<blockquote>Exactly how the new Alzheimer&#8217;s genes (named IQCK, ACE, ADAMTS1 and WWOX) affect the risk and development of the disease is still largely unknown, but may provide crucial targets as researchers search for treatments.</blockquote>
Director of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine, neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson comments, “This is a powerful study. Finding these new genes allows clinicians to one day <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-tailor-approach-to-alzheimers/">target these genes with therapeutic interventions</a>. It also gives us greater insight into the potential causes of Alzheimer’s.”
<h2>How Alzheimer&#8217;s Genes Can Help Us Better Understand Disease Risk</h2>
The study also validated the role of amyloid and the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-11-16-early-alzheimers-caused-by-haywire-immune-system/">immune system</a> in the development and progression of Alzheimer’s. Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, director of the Alzheimer’s Genome Project and part of the study, is hopeful that having more than a dozen gene targets on the effects of immunity on Alzheimer’s can work towards new drug discovery for the disease.
Because a person can develop Alzheimer’s many different ways, researchers are hopeful that by identifying certain genes, they will be able to develop <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/personalized-treatments-could-be-the-key-to-alzheimers/">personalized and specific interventions</a> that target each person’s specific genes.<img class="size-full wp-image-88975 alignright" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2020/04/why-is-alzheimers-more-likely-in-women-300x158-1-1.jpg" alt="Why is Alzheimer's more likely in women?" width="300" height="158" />
{{ cta:outlinedPrimary }}
While the study will not have an immediate impact for people living with Alzheimer’s, it does provide useful insight into the bodily processes that may cause or <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">interact with the progression of Alzheimer’s</a> or other forms of dementia.
Are you aware of any Alzheimer&#8217;s genes that you, a parent or senior loved one may have? How do you think Alzheimer&#8217;s genes will impact future research? We&#8217;d like to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/personalized-treatments-could-be-the-key-to-alzheimers/">How Personalized Treatments Could Be the Key to Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-tailor-approach-to-alzheimers/">Scientists Tailor Approach to Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Newly Discovered Alzheimer's Genes Help Us Better Understand Risk

A research team led by the University of Miami’s Hussman Institute for Human Genomics analyzed the genetic makeup of more than 94,000 people clinically diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and discovered four new genetic variants that increase the risk of the disease. Learn more about the study, its groundbreaking findings, and how it will impact future Alzheimer’s […]

Those who are newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia often become frustrated by forgetting the simple things in life — doctor’s appointments, people’s names, phone numbers, when to take medications, etc. 
There are a variety of memory aids that seniors with dementia can use to help alleviate some of this frustration, however.
<h2>4 Memory Aids for Seniors With Dementia</h2>
Learn more from the top four <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/interventions-may-slow-memory-loss-in-early-alzheimers/">memory aids for seniors with dementia</a>.
<h3>1. Electronic memory aids.</h3>
Today’s <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-06/memory-boxes-for-patients/">best memory aids</a> take advantage of the latest technology. Virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Home will help seniors remember when it’s time to start dinner, leave for a doctor&#8217;s appointment, or watch their favorite TV show. The smart functions of these devices can also turn off lights, lock doors, or adjust the thermostat. In addition, they can add items to a shopping list, tell seniors about the weather, and remind them what day of the week it is — all through simple voice commands or requests.
Seniors can also use electronic devices such as a computer, mobile phone, or tablets to set audio or visual reminders of tasks they need to accomplish. In addition, these devices have GPS functions to provide directions to wherever they wish to go — either by driving, using public transit or walking. As dementia progresses, however, it’s important that seniors have their driving skills evaluated regularly to ensure it is safe for them to continue driving.
Object locator devices are another way to assist those with dementia. Looking for lost cellphones, eyeglasses, and keys is a tremendous time-waster — for those with or without dementia. If this <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">happens more and more often</a>, investing in a Bluetooth tracker or another type of locator might be well worth the cost.
<h3>2. Human interaction.</h3>
While memory aids are helpful, they don’t replace human interaction.
If someone you love has dementia, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-24-16-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-benefit-from-visits/">call or stop by</a> to verify that the memory aids they are using are adequate for their needs.
<h3>3. Medication aids.</h3>
One of the most important dementia memory aids is a medication reminder. Using a pillbox marked with the days of the week is the low-cost, low-tech way to remind seniors to take their medication. When dementia progresses and/or the daily medication regime becomes too complicated for them to manage, another option to consider is an automated medication dispenser with an audio reminder.
Some of these dispensers cost several hundred dollars and, in some cases, have monthly fees. However, they do provide <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">peace of mind for loved ones who worry</a> that their parent will forget to take their medication or inadvertently take a double dose.
<h3>4. Written reminders.</h3>
Using a calendar to write down appointments, events, and family birthdays is a must for those who are <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">having memory difficulties</a>. Options include a 12-month wall calendar, a monthly dry-erase calendar, a 365-day desk calendar, or perhaps a combination of these. Seniors can fill these out on their own or with the help of a family member.
Other helpful strategies include using bulletin boards, sticky notes, or “to-do” pads to write down appointment times, phone numbers or reminders about easy-to-overlook tasks like checking the mail or finishing the laundry. Checklists are yet another useful tool, helping those with memory issues to ensure that daily tasks were completed. Another way to assist those with dementia is to create labels for cabinets and drawers so that it’s easier to locate household items and return them to their proper places.
Verifying all of these tasks is a good way to ensure you don’t inadvertently spoil food, kill the plants, or cause <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-home-safety-tips-from-the-mayo-clinic/">unsafe conditions in the home</a>.
<h3>About the Author</h3>
Diane Franklin is a freelance writer and editor who writes regularly about senior living and healthcare. She has also written hundreds of articles for business and trade publications, including leading magazines for the credit union and retail paint industries.
What memory aids have worked best in your family? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and any tips you may have in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-24-16-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-benefit-from-visits/">How Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s Benefit From Our Visits</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/have-alzheimers-now-what/">I Have Alzheimer’s, Now What?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/interventions-may-slow-memory-loss-in-early-alzheimers/">Interventions That May Slow Memory Loss in Early Alzheimer’s Disease</a></li>
</ul>

Memory Aids for Seniors With Dementia

Those who are newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia often become frustrated by forgetting the simple things in life — doctor’s appointments, people’s names, phone numbers, when to take medications, etc. There are a variety of memory aids that seniors with dementia can use to help alleviate some of this frustration, […]

Last Updated: July 23, 2019
The health of the human brain is impacted by diet, but do products like herbs and other natural supplements affect its health?<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68314" src="/main/uploads/2019/07/5-myths-about-natural-supplements-for-alzheimers-300x158.png" alt="5 Myths About Natural Supplements for Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/5-myths-about-natural-supplements-for-alzheimers-300x158.png 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/5-myths-about-natural-supplements-for-alzheimers.png 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) explains to us the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">impact that natural supplements have on the brain</a>, and if any have been shown to be effective in fighting the effects of Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.
<h2>Myths About Natural Supplements for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Learn more, by looking at five popular myths about using natural supplements in the fight against Alzheimer&#8217;s:
<h3>Myth 1: Coenzyme Q10 treats a number of conditions including Alzheimer&#8217;s.</h3>
The bad news, says former ADDF <a href="https://www.alzdiscovery.org/about-addf/staff" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Assistant Director, Penny Dacks</a>, is that &#8220;most supplements have very little evidence to support their use, particularly evidence gathered from humans&#8221; (as opposed to testing on lab rats). <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/coenzyme-q10/background/hrb-20059019" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10),</a> for instance, is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in the body and CoQ10 levels decrease with age. It&#8217;s become a popular supplement to treat Alzheimer&#8217;s. Unfortunately, there is &#8220;relatively strong evidence suggesting it will not protect the brain.&#8221;
There is, however, some evidence to support the use of CoQ10 for high blood pressure and heart failure.
<h3>Myth 2: Taking natural supplements to fight Alzheimer&#8217;s can&#8217;t hurt because there are no adverse effects.</h3>
It may seem that if the supplement at hand is natural, then there&#8217;s no risk in using it, but the truth is that we need to makes ourselves aware of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-health-ailments/">potential side effects</a> before administering or taking any natural supplement.
For instance, Dacks notes that &#8220;One natural product called Axona has clinical research to suggest that it can help some people, but it definitely does not help everyone and it can cause some severe gastrointestinal side effects. Axona is somewhat related to coconut oil and contains medium-chain triglycerides.&#8221;
<h3>Myth 3: There are a number of natural supplements for Alzheimer&#8217;s.</h3>
This myth is perpetuated by the fact that so many people are suffering from Alzheimer&#8217;s and so many caregivers are hungry for anything that can help. Dacks says, &#8220;The best natural supplements are affordable and backed by strong evidence to suggest that it may <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">protect the brain</a>.&#8221; She adds, &#8220;Unfortunately, those are few and far between.&#8221;
Dacks pointed us to a great resource, however, called <a href="http://www.alzdiscovery.org/cognitive-vitality/nutrition-natural-products-and-supplements" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cognitive Vitality,</a> which looks at a number of individual natural supplements and takes objective stock of the science behind them.
<h3>Myth 4: There are no natural supplements that actually benefit people with Alzheimer&#8217;s.</h3>
You may hear that natural supplements have no benefits from <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/doctors-say-brain-health-supplements-are-pseudoscience/">sources who believe that supplements are &#8220;baloney.&#8221;</a> But, when we asked Dacks if there&#8217;s a supplement that the ADDF is keeping a particularly close eye on, she replied, &#8220;Souvenaid is a promising cocktail of nutritional supplements with some clinical evidence to suggest that it can benefit Alzheimer&#8217;s patients. Doctors can prescribe it as a medical food in some countries (Australia and countries in Europe, I believe) but it is not yet available in the United States.&#8221;
A recent <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22766770" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">randomized, controlled study</a> of the effects of Souvenaid in patients with mild Alzheimer&#8217;s showed &#8220;increased memory performance&#8221; after periods of both 12 and 24 weeks.
<h3>Myth 5: Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) directly cause an increase in brain volume</h3>
Increasing or maintaining brain volume is understood to play a key role in preventing or treating dementia. Writes Dacks, &#8220;<a href="http://www.alzdiscovery.org/cognitive-vitality/article/omega-3s-associated-with-larger-brain-volum" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Several studies</a> report that people with higher levels of the long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) tend to have larger brain volumes.&#8221; But, she cautions, &#8220;that doesn&#8217;t mean that the EPA and DHA cause higher brain volume — we need a clinical trial to prove that — but it does point in the right direction. To my knowledge, no clinical trials have tested whether EPA or DHA raise brain volume.&#8221;
But, that&#8217;s not to say that EPA and DHA&#8217;s effects on the brain haven&#8217;t been tested at all. &#8220;Several trials have tested whether EPA or DHA can improve cognitive abilities. In general, they haven&#8217;t seen a benefit to Alzheimer&#8217;s patients or healthy elderly people but some benefits have been reported in people with mild cognitive impairment.&#8221; There are a lot of unanswered questions. For example, &#8220;Would protection from Alzheimer&#8217;s require decades of relatively high EPA and DHA levels, as opposed to the exposure seen in a six-month clinical trial? We just don&#8217;t know&#8230; <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-27-14-vitamin-d-and-dementia/">Eating fatty fish like salmon</a> once or twice a week may be sufficient. Emerging evidence also suggests that while DHA can protect the brain of some people, it will not protect the brain of people who carry the Apolipoprotein e4 genetic risk factor for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.&#8221;
Do you, a parent or senior loved one use any natural supplements to treat Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your experiences with supplements with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/doctors-say-brain-health-supplements-are-pseudoscience/">Doctors Say Brain Health Supplements Are “Pseudoscience”</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/preventing-dementia-through-lifestyle-choices/">Preventing Dementia Through Lifestyle Choices</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">What the Experts Do to Promote Brain Health</a></li>
</ul>

5 Myths About Natural Supplements for Alzheimer's

Last Updated: July 23, 2019 The health of the human brain is impacted by diet, but do products like herbs and other natural supplements affect its health? The Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) explains to us the impact that natural supplements have on the brain, and if any have been shown to be effective in fighting the effects […]

Brain health supplements are a $3.2 billion industry but neurologists are warning against their use, claiming many Americans are being scammed and served false hope.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67665" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/doctors-say-brain-health-supplements-are-pseudoscience-300x158.jpg" alt="Doctors Say Brain Health Supplements Are “Pseudoscience&quot;" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/doctors-say-brain-health-supplements-are-pseudoscience-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/doctors-say-brain-health-supplements-are-pseudoscience.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about the lack of evidence supporting brain health supplements and proven ways to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">support brain health</a>.
<h2>Brain Health Supplements in the United States</h2>
Three neurologists from the University of California San Francisco’s Memory and Aging Center expressed concern about the use of brain health supplements in an opinion piece in the <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2723294?resultClick=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/2723294?resultClick=1">Journal of American Medical Association</a> (JAMA).
<blockquote>The neurologists warned against “pseudomedicine” and “science,” stating that “No known dietary supplement prevents cognitive decline or dementia, yet supplements advertised as such are widely available and appear to gain legitimacy when sold by major U.S. retailers.”</blockquote>
The article goes on to say, “Some of these practitioners may stand to gain financially by promoting interventions that are not covered by insurance&#8230; These interventions lack a known mechanism for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/preventing-dementia-through-lifestyle-choices/">treating dementia</a> and are costly, unregulated and potentially harmful.”
<h2>FDA Warns Against &#8220;Pseudoscience&#8221; Supplements</h2>
The <a href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-action-against-17-companies-illegally-selling-products-claiming-treat-alzheimers-disease" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-takes-action-against-17-companies-illegally-selling-products-claiming-treat-alzheimers-disease">U.S. Food and Drug Administration</a> (FDA) has issued a warning to both domestic and foreign companies that sell 58 products claiming to prevent, treat or cure Alzheimer’s disease or other chronic health conditions. Their statement said, “These products may be ineffective, unsafe and could prevent a person from seeking appropriate diagnosis and treatment.”
<blockquote>Dr. Joanna Hellmuth, one of the authors of the JAMA article, says that these companies are using fear to sell products. “If people really reflect, a lot of this is motivated by fear, which is understandable because these diseases are horrible, they’re frightening,” Hellmuth says. “They are diseases that alter your personality, who you are as an individual. So, understandably, people are driven by fear or compelled to want to do something.”</blockquote>
Not only are many of these <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">brain health supplements</a> not effective, but many are also actually dangerous. They are not reviewed by the FDA for efficacy or safety and not being able to verify what is in them can cause health issues and negative interactions with prescription drugs.
When it comes to preventing Alzheimer’s and promoting better brain health, Hellmuth suggests spending money and time on activities and exercise classes.
<blockquote>“The things we recommend are being cognitively active, physically active and socially active,” she continues. “For physically active, we follow the American Heart Association recommendations of two and half hours a week of vigorous cardiovascular exercise.”</blockquote>
She also recommends a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/healthier-lifestyle-may-prevent-dementia/">heart-healthy diet, maintaining healthy cholesterol levels</a> and getting a high quality of sleep.
What steps have you taken to improve your brain health? We&#8217;d like to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/healthier-lifestyle-may-prevent-dementia/">Healthier Lifestyle May Prevent 1 in 3 Cases of Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/preventing-dementia-through-lifestyle-choices/">Preventing Dementia Through Lifestyle Choices</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">What the Experts Do to Promote Brain Health</a></li>
</ul>

Doctors Say Brain Health Supplements Are “Pseudoscience"

Brain health supplements are a $3.2 billion industry but neurologists are warning against their use, claiming many Americans are being scammed and served false hope. Learn more about the lack of evidence supporting brain health supplements and proven ways to support brain health. Brain Health Supplements in the United States Three neurologists from the University […]

A recent study on the differences between healthy brains and those affected by Alzheimer’s disease has revealed a brain map, now freely available online for any scientist. A team of researchers from the University of Auckland, Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester successfully published the most comprehensive map of the Alzheimer’s brain.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67657" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/alzheimers-brain-map-published-by-scientists-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer's Brain Map Published by Scientists" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/alzheimers-brain-map-published-by-scientists-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/alzheimers-brain-map-published-by-scientists.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the Alzheimer&#8217;s brain map, the study and its <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">impact on future Alzheimer’s research</a>.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Brain Map Shows the Progression of the Disease</h2>
The study, published in the journal <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-018-0254-9.epdf?author_access_token=dhlCNPiqDVR1tDQGJOOMHtRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0OxGo-QVDza9VwqOWAlgy_kLtLsa1q1XXDZnD-OssXEUBPXaG1_VOneyGcMUHzY80z0epw5aXN5ZZ8qy3mPIc-yq7uShvZcabnIuDpvUj5Q9A==" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-018-0254-9.epdf?author_access_token=dhlCNPiqDVR1tDQGJOOMHtRgN0jAjWel9jnR3ZoTv0OxGo-QVDza9VwqOWAlgy_kLtLsa1q1XXDZnD-OssXEUBPXaG1_VOneyGcMUHzY80z0epw5aXN5ZZ8qy3mPIc-yq7uShvZcabnIuDpvUj5Q9A==">Communications Biology</a>, was funded by the Alzheimer’s Research UK and maps the relative levels of more than 5,825 different proteins across six regions of the brain, generating a total of a staggering 24,024 data points.
Study leader, Dr. Richard Unwin from the University of Manchester said on Twitter, “This database provides a huge opportunity for dementia researchers around the world to progress and to follow-up new areas of biology and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">develop new treatments</a>. It could also help validate observations seen in animal or cell disease models in humans. It’s very exciting to be able to make these data public so scientists can access and use this vital information.”
The samples, donated for research by patients at the New Zealand Brain Bank in Auckland, revealed changes in the cerebellum, previously thought to be unaffected by Alzheimer’s. Additionally, the brain regions in the study included more heavily affected areas like the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and cingulate gyrus.
<blockquote>The study also gave researchers more insight into the <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/biggest-ever-map-of-human-alzheimers-brain-published/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/biggest-ever-map-of-human-alzheimers-brain-published/">pathology of the disease</a>, which starts at the hippocampus and spreads through pathways in the brain. Dr. Unwin noted, “We think that the changes we see in the regions affected later on represent early disease changes, present before cells die.”</blockquote>
The team identified 129 protein changes all present in the areas of the brain studied and 44 of those protein changes were not previously associated with Alzheimer’s. This is great news for Alzheimer’s drug developers as they target those protein changes for early intervention treatments.
Dr. Rosa Sancho, Head of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, says, “By studying thousands of individual proteins, this exciting research has generated a detailed molecular map of changes that get underway in the brain in Alzheimer’s disease. Making this information freely available online will help researchers to navigate the complex and changing environment of the brain in Alzheimer’s and identify processes that could be targeted by future drugs. There are over half a million people in the UK living with Alzheimer’s and there are currently no <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">treatments that can slow or stop the disease from progressing</a> in the brain. Pioneering research like this is driving progress towards new breakthroughs that will change people’s lives.”
Do you think an Alzheimer&#8217;s brain map is a step in the right direction towards a cure? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-the-experts-do-to-promote-brain-health/">What the Experts Do to Promote Brain Health</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">What the Experts Say Are the Best Supplements for Your Brain</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's Brain Map Published by Scientists

A recent study on the differences between healthy brains and those affected by Alzheimer’s disease has revealed a brain map, now freely available online for any scientist. A team of researchers from the University of Auckland, Bristol, Liverpool and Manchester successfully published the most comprehensive map of the Alzheimer’s brain. Learn more about the Alzheimer’s […]

Family get-togethers, fireworks and great food make the Fourth of July a fun holiday for us, but that is not always the case for our parents and senior loved ones with dementia. So, what can you do to have an enjoyable and safe holiday with your loved one this year?<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67615" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/tips-on-celebrating-the-fourth-of-july-with-a-loved-one-with-dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="10 Tips on Celebrating the Fourth of July With a Loved One With Dementia" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/tips-on-celebrating-the-fourth-of-july-with-a-loved-one-with-dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/tips-on-celebrating-the-fourth-of-july-with-a-loved-one-with-dementia.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read these 10 tips for celebrating Independence Day with a senior loved one with dementia.
<h2>Celebrating the Fourth of July With a Loved One With Dementia</h2>
You can help parents and senior <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-caregivers-share-tips-to-keep-loved-ones-engaged/">loved ones with dementia feel included</a> and safe by modifying your Independence Day celebration this year.
Here are 10 ways that you can have an enjoyable day with your family:
<ol>
<li>Avoid places that have large crowds or are setting off loud fireworks (which may be quite a challenge on the Fourth of July). Consider celebrating indoors or spending only a portion of the day outside.</li>
<li>Bring along a comfortable lawn chair and avoid letting your loved one stand for long periods of time if you are headed outdoors.</li>
<li>Don’t forget to bring along plenty of cold water (<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-11/safe-summer-with-alzheimers/">seniors can become dehydrated or suffer from heat stroke</a> very easily).</li>
<li>Don&#8217;t forget the sunscreen. While you are planning for a quiet walk or a day at the beach, make sure you bring along a straw hat and limit the time in the sun. Optimally, bring along a shade umbrella, or try to find a nice shade tree.</li>
<li>Maintain as much of the normal daily routine as possible, for example, if your loved one always takes a nap at noon, plan the holiday activity around nap time.</li>
<li>Make a traditional meal with foods like burgers, hot dogs, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/superfoods-that-fight-alzheimers/">salads and more</a> (have your loved one help as much as possible with the meal prep).</li>
<li>Plan activities around the time of day your loved one is the most alert, particularly for those who have trouble “sundowning.”</li>
<li>Refrain from asking your loved one if he/she remembers specific events or past holidays, but rather, say the name, describe the event and observe to see if he/she remembers. For example, say, “Your neighbor wants to talk to you about the time we had the neighborhood barbeque in the backyard.”</li>
<li>When <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-04/traveling-with-alzheimers/">spending time away from home</a>, select an outdoor spot near a restroom and offer frequent bathroom breaks.</li>
<li>When your loved one gets dressed in the morning, ensure that he/she wears lightweight (cotton) light-colored clothing that is loose fitting if you plan to spend some time outdoors.</li>
</ol>
There are many ways to adapt your Independence Day plans and traditions so you and your senior loved ones can have an enjoyable and safe holiday, but it&#8217;s most important to stay in the present and try to find ways to enjoy the simple moments with them — no matter what is around the next bend.
What other suggestions for celebrating the Fourth of July with a loved one with dementia would you add to this list? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and tips in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-caregivers-share-tips-to-keep-loved-ones-engaged/">Alzheimer’s Caregivers Share 10 Tips to Keep Loved Ones Engaged</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-04/traveling-with-alzheimers/">10 Caregiver Tips for Traveling With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-11/safe-summer-with-alzheimers/">Ways Your Loved One With Alzheimer’s Can Have a Safe Summer</a></li>
</ul>

10 Tips on Celebrating the Fourth of July With a Loved One With Dementia

Family get-togethers, fireworks and great food make the Fourth of July a fun holiday for us, but that is not always the case for our parents and senior loved ones with dementia. So, what can you do to have an enjoyable and safe holiday with your loved one this year? Read these 10 tips for celebrating […]

Over 5.7 million Americans are living with dementia today. Unfortunately, even with such a staggering number of people coping with the diagnosis, a stigma still exists and it can be very difficult to share such a devastating diagnosis with co-workers, family members and friends.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67234" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/dementia-when-do-you-announce-a-diagnosis-300x158.jpg" alt="Dementia: When Do You Announce a Diagnosis?" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/dementia-when-do-you-announce-a-diagnosis-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/dementia-when-do-you-announce-a-diagnosis-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/dementia-when-do-you-announce-a-diagnosis-768x403.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/dementia-when-do-you-announce-a-diagnosis.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
So, how do you know when it’s time? Read these tips on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/have-alzheimers-now-what/">how to announce a diagnosis</a>.
<h2>How to Find Dementia Support</h2>
Dr. Sujatha Hamilton is the chair of medical ethics and director of palliative care at New York University. She urges people recently diagnosed to share their diagnosis with family and friends. “They have fears and worries and so do their caregivers. This is devastating news, but they seldom seem surprised. They put their heads down. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/an-alzheimers-diagnosis-without-memory-loss/">They will say, ‘I knew it,</a>’” she says.
<blockquote>Getting the news out early will help coworkers, family, friends and medical professionals to form a strong support network and enable the person diagnosed to make important financial and legal decisions early before the disease has progressed and those decisions become impossible to make.</blockquote>
Dr. Hamilton notes, “Many people find <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-family-relationships-and-roles-change-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">great support in letting others know</a>. A child or spouse can create a supportive, warm environment to keep their loved one feeling comfortable and protected while the information is shared.”
<h2>6 Tips to Announce a Diagnosis</h2>
Leah Challberg is a senior program manager at the Alzheimer’s Association. She encourages people to think about the setting they want to tell people whether that be private or as a group.
She says, “There’s a perception that once you have this label, it’s a death sentence, but it’s really not. People with the disease can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">do a whole lot for a long period of time</a>.”
The <a href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/know-what-to-expect/sharing-your-diagnosis" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz/know-what-to-expect/sharing-your-diagnosis">Alzheimer’s Association</a> offers suggestions for how to tell others about a diagnosis, which includes:
<ol>
<li>Discussing the future and how family and friends can help.</li>
<li>Finding a private and quiet place to be alone.</li>
<li>Having educational brochures and information about the disease readily available.</li>
<li>Letting your family know you are still the person they have always loved and you can still have a meaningful relationship.</li>
<li>Taking your time in sharing the news.</li>
<li>Writing down important things and thoughts you want to say before the meeting</li>
</ol>
No matter how you, your parent or senior loved one decide to share a dementia diagnosis, the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">news can still be confusing and upsetting</a>.
Give those around time to cope with a diagnosis and focus on developing a care network that can be trusted and relied upon <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">as the disease progresses</a>.
How did you know when to announce a diagnosis of dementia? What other suggestions do you have for others going through the process now? We&#8217;d like to hear your tips in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/an-alzheimers-diagnosis-without-memory-loss/">An Alzheimer’s Diagnosis Without Memory Loss</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/diagnosis-is-it-alzheimers-or-another-dementia/">Diagnosis Matters: Is It Alzheimer’s or Another Dementia?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-family-relationships-and-roles-change-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">How Family Relationships and Roles Change After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis</a></li>
</ul>

Dementia: When Do You Announce a Diagnosis?

Over 5.7 million Americans are living with dementia today. Unfortunately, even with such a staggering number of people coping with the diagnosis, a stigma still exists and it can be very difficult to share such a devastating diagnosis with co-workers, family members and friends. So, how do you know when it’s time? Read these tips […]

An annual Alzheimer&#8217;s disease fundraising event created by author, journalist and the former First Lady of California, Maria Shriver, “Move for Minds” is benefiting the disease by educating and supporting men and women across the United States on cognitive and physical health.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67210" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/how-does-move-for-minds-benefit-alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="How Does &quot;Move for Minds&quot; Benefit Alzheimer's?" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/how-does-move-for-minds-benefit-alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/how-does-move-for-minds-benefit-alzheimers-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/how-does-move-for-minds-benefit-alzheimers-768x403.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/how-does-move-for-minds-benefit-alzheimers.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the initiative and how to get involved in honor of Alzheimer&#8217;s and Brain Awareness Month this June.
<h2>&#8220;Move for Minds&#8221; Benefits Alzheimer&#8217;s This June</h2>
&#8220;Move for Minds&#8221; is &#8220;an annual initiative that aims to ignite men and women everywhere to make their cognitive health a priority,&#8221; according to Shriver’s website, <a href="https://thewomensalzheimersmovement.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement</a>. In June each year across the country, the event aims to educate the public about the latest on Alzheimer’s and research on lifestyle changes  — such as diet and exercise — that may help to prevent or slow down the progress of the disease.
The premise for incorporating healthy eating and exercise habits into the <a href="http://www.moveforminds.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Move for Minds initiative</a> is the hope that making these lifestyle changes today will ensure a healthy (Alzheimer’s-free) brain tomorrow.  Move for Minds also aims to serve as a funding source for women-based Alzheimer’s research, in an effort to accelerate the scientific discovery of a cure for the disease.
The annual Move for Minds event also helps to:
<ul>
<li>Educate the public about Alzheimer’s prevention</li>
<li>Inform women about the risks of Alzheimer’s</li>
<li>Provide caregiver relief grants for caregivers in need of respite care</li>
<li>Support family members of those with the disease</li>
<li>Support women-based Alzheimer’s research studies</li>
</ul>
As part of the initiative, people are asked to join the Alzheimer’s Women’s Movement and support the organization’s effort to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-contribute-to-alzheimers-research/">help find a cure for the disease</a>.
Here are some ways of getting involved in this year’s event:
<ol>
<li>Donate to the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement.</li>
<li>Organize a local fundraiser or join one near you.</li>
<li>Tell people in your local area about the event and encourage them to get involved.</li>
</ol>
This year&#8217;s event also includes activities such as:
<h3>Dance for Minds</h3>
Dancing is a fun way to exercise while keeping the body and mind engaged. You can start a Dance for Minds fundraising campaign or search for an existing fundraiser in your area.
<h3>Dine for Minds</h3>
Healthy eating is at the core of a healthy brain, so why not host a dinner party and serve healthy food for your guests that will support the cause? Start your own Dine for Minds fundraiser, or find one near you.
<h3>Games for Minds</h3>
Keeping the mind active by playing board games, engaging in card games or trivia competitions, helps to promote a healthy brain. Start your own “Games for Minds” fundraising campaign, or search for one in your local area.
<h3>Hike for Minds</h3>
Getting a great workout in while enjoying nature is one of the best ways to exercise and maintain a brain healthy lifestyle.  Organize your own “Hike for Minds” event or search for one in your area.
<h3>Meditation for Minds</h3>
Meditation and mindfulness helps lower stress and has been shown to promote brain health. Start your own Meditation for Minds fundraising campaign or search for an upcoming event near you.
<h3>Run for Minds</h3>
An exercise event would not be complete without an option for runners. Whether you enjoy a long cross country run, or a short jog through the neighborhood, the Run for Minds fundraising event can offer a fun activity, while helping Alzheimer’s research.  Start your own event or search for an existing one.
<h3>Yoga for Minds</h3>
Yoga helps to improve blood flow to the brain while staving off unhealthy symptoms caused by stress.  Start a Yoga for Minds campaign of your own, or search for an upcoming event in your area.
No matter where you live, you can help support the annual Move for Minds fundraising event and become part of the national movement to support women-based Alzheimer’s research and help find a cure this June.
Are you planning on joining the Move for Minds event in honor of Alzheimer&#8217;s and Brain Awareness Month? We&#8217;d like to hear more about your plans this June in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-31-17-longest-day/">Honoring Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers on the Longest Day</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-contribute-to-alzheimers-research/">How to Contribute to Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer’s on the Longest Day</a></li>
</ul>

How Does "Move for Minds" Benefit Alzheimer's?

An annual Alzheimer’s disease fundraising event created by author, journalist and the former First Lady of California, Maria Shriver, “Move for Minds” is benefiting the disease by educating and supporting men and women across the United States on cognitive and physical health. Learn more about the initiative and how to get involved in honor of […]

Last Updated: June 11, 2019
June marks Alzheimer&#8217;s and Brain Awareness Month – a month set aside to bring awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. One of the biggest ways to raise awareness is by participating in the Longest Day: a series of events held on the longest day of the year to honor people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s and those that love them.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67176" src="http://admin.alzheimers.net/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/honoring-loved-ones-with-alzheimers-and-their-caregivers-on-the-longest-day-300x158.jpg" alt="Honoring Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers on the Longest Day" width="300" height="158">
Learn more about the&nbsp;<a href="http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=11896&amp;pg=entry" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Longest Day</a> and how you can get involved to make an impact in the fight against Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>How to Honor Loved Ones With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s is often referred to as &#8220;the long goodbye&#8221; because of its slow nature and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-6-14-alzheimers-caregivers-month/">lasting emotional and physical drain</a>. The poem, &#8220;The Long Goodbye,&#8221; written by Ellen Miller about the disease conveys its lingering pain:
&#8220;It&#8217;s been a long time since we first felt the beginning to this end.
And today we pray before you; your family and your friends.
We&#8217;ve watched your thoughts get more obscure with every passing day;
As this heartless thing called Alzheimer&#8217;s made them fade away.
Gradually it took the gleam from those once so loving eyes.
To befall on such a giving man&#8230;it seemed so unjustified.
Stripping you of everything, leaving nothing in its place
Except a look of sadness left upon your face.
As long as we have searched, through all the tears we&#8217;ve cried
We&#8217;ve tried to find the reason for this long good-bye.
But now it&#8217;s time to take back all your memories
As you are finally free from this cruel disease.
We pledge to remember the man that you once were;
A good-hearted, giving man is all that will be heard.
And every night when we look up and see a certain star
We will know within our hearts exactly where you are.
So on this day, we say good-bye as you now depart.
Although far from our touch, never far from our hearts.&#8221;
In honor of people fighting the disease and those that love them, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association hosts <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-and-brain-awareness-month/">a series of events every year</a> on the longest day of the year – the summer solstice.
On June 21, 2019, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association will ask people all over the world to participate in the Longest Day and raise Alzheimer&#8217;s awareness and funds.
<h2>Ways to Participate in the Longest Day</h2>
Choosing an activity that you love is the best way to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">participate in the Longest Day</a>.
It can be a craft night, a community run, a day at the beach or a wine tasting&nbsp;– anything that you want to do with a group of people. Invite your family and friends and start fundraising!
<blockquote>Ask people for donations and then plan your day and send the funds raised to the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association. To raise awareness, show your event on social media using the hashtags #ENDALZ and #TheLongestDay.</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-contribute-to-alzheimers-research/">Every dollar raised will benefit people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> in your community. The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association will use the money raised to provide care and support for people facing Alzheimer&#8217;s through their free helpline, in-person support groups and online forums, or donate it to research and scientific proposals.
How will you and your family raise Alzheimer&#8217;s awareness and funds on the Longest Day? Share your plans with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-6-14-alzheimers-caregivers-month/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-6-14-alzheimers-caregivers-month/">Celebrating Caregivers During Alzheimer&#8217;s Awareness Month</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-contribute-to-alzheimers-research/">How to Contribute to Alzheimer’s Research</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-19/raise-awareness-for-alzheimers-on-the-longest-day/">How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer&#8217;s on the Longest Day</a></li>
</ul>

Honoring Loved Ones With Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers on the Longest Day

How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer's on the Longest Day

Last Updated: June 11, 2019 June marks Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month – a month set aside to bring awareness and funds to fight Alzheimer’s disease. One of the biggest ways to raise awareness is by participating in the Longest Day: a series of events held on the longest day of the year to honor […]

Last Updated: June 4, 2019
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67247" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Raise-Awareness-for-Alzheimers-on-the-Longest-Day-300x158.jpg" alt="How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer's on the Longest Day" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Raise-Awareness-for-Alzheimers-on-the-Longest-Day-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Raise-Awareness-for-Alzheimers-on-the-Longest-Day.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />June is Alzheimer&#8217;s and Brain Awareness Month. Take the opportunity to show your support for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease this summer on the Longest Day, where thousands will come together to raise awareness for the disease.&gt;
Learn more about how you can participate on June 21, 2019.
<h2>How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
More than five and a half million people in the United States are estimated to be <a href="http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_and_figures.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">living with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>, and with that number expected to triple by 2050,  it is paramount to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-18/stop-alzheimers-infographic/">increase awareness now</a>.
In an effort to bring more recognition to the disease, The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association chose the summer solstice — the longest day of the year — to be the day of a sunrise-to-sunset relay event to support those facing the disease.
On their website, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association says the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-and-brain-awareness-month/">purpose of the Longest Day</a> is to:
<blockquote>&#8220;Come together to honor the strength, passion and endurance of those facing Alzheimer&#8217;s with a day of activity.&#8221;</blockquote>
Although a 16-hour day of raising awareness for Alzheimer&#8217;s may sound intimidating, there are <a href="http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=5860&amp;pg=informational&amp;sid=18345" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">many easy ways to take part in the event</a>.
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association recommends five steps to get started:
<ol>
<li>Do what you love to raise awareness — like cooking, gardening or walking.</li>
<li>Grab your friends and form a team.</li>
<li>Remember to plan your day with your team, whether it&#8217;s raising awareness together or digitally, if in different locations.</li>
<li>Then raise money doing what you love to support Alzheimer&#8217;s on the Longest Day.</li>
<li>Remember to celebrate at sunset with your team and recognize the accomplishments you made towards bringing awareness to Alzheimer&#8217;s.</li>
</ol>
For more information on how to register for the event, visit <a href="http://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=5860&amp;pg=informational&amp;sid=18344" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Longest Day</a>&#8216;s website or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fightalz" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Facebook</a> page.
<h2>Staying Involved</h2>
Even if you can&#8217;t <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-31-17-longest-day/">participate in the Longest Day</a>, it is important to remember that there are other ways to raise awareness for those facing Alzheimer&#8217;s and stay involved.
This could include:
<ol>
<li>Getting educated about Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia.</li>
<li>Talking about Alzheimer&#8217;s.</li>
<li>Wearing purple, the official color of the disease.</li>
<li>Signing the &#8220;Stop Alzheimer&#8217;s&#8221; petition.</li>
<li>Volunteering or donating to your favorite Alzheimer&#8217;s awareness organization.</li>
</ol>
How are you raising awareness for Alzheimer&#8217;s on the Longest Day? Share your thoughts about the day and your suggestions on raising awareness with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-and-brain-awareness-month/">Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month: How to Get Involved</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-31-17-longest-day/">Honoring People With Alzheimer’s and Their Caregivers on the Longest Day</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-09-18/stop-alzheimers-infographic/">7 Things You Can Do to Stop Alzheimer’s by 2025</a></li>
</ul>

Last Updated: June 4, 2019 June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. Take the opportunity to show your support for Alzheimer’s disease this summer on the Longest Day, where thousands will come together to raise awareness for the disease.> Learn more about how you can participate on June 21, 2019. How to Raise Awareness for Alzheimer’s […]

Having one parent diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is difficult for family caregivers but when both of your parents have Alzheimer’s, the burden more than doubles. The help you were receiving from one parent is replaced by the challenges of caring for both.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67244" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Help-Two-Parents-With-Alzheimers-Disease-300x158.jpg" alt="How to Help Two Parents With Alzheimer’s Disease" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Help-Two-Parents-With-Alzheimers-Disease-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/How-to-Help-Two-Parents-With-Alzheimers-Disease.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>How to Help Two Parents With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Here is some advice on how to manage the often-overwhelming task of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">helping two parents with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>:
<h3>1. Consider the options.</h3>
When it is no longer safe for one or both of your parents to live in their home, the time may come to consider such options as assisted living or <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">memory care</a>. You and your parents may have to grapple with some tough decisions. For instance, does the parent in the milder stages want to remain at home while the other parent lives in a memory care community? Or would they rather move into assisted living or memory care together?
One possibility might be for one parent to move into assisted living while the other <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/guide-to-finding-the-right-memory-care-community/">moves into memory care</a> in the same community. Though they would have separate rooms, they would be able to see each other during the day while receiving the specialized care they need — and an added bonus is that it would be more convenient for you to visit.
<h3>2. Don’t neglect yourself.</h3>
When focusing on two parents diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you may find yourself with little time for self-care. However, it’s important not to neglect your needs. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Develop a support network</a> to alleviate caregiving-related responsibilities. Among those who can help are clergy, family members, friends, healthcare teams and resources in your community like the local Area Agency on Aging.
If necessary, see a counselor or mental health professional to help <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">alleviate any stress or emotional trauma</a> you may be experiencing or join a caregiver’s support group. Also, make sure you stay up-to-date on medical exams to maintain your physical well being. Keeping yourself healthy is one of the most important things you can do to fulfill your desire to help your parents.
<h3>3. Know the stages.</h3>
Familiarize yourself with the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">different stages of Alzheimer’s disease</a>, from mild to severe, so that you can tailor your assistance for each of your parents accordingly. For instance, Dad may be in the moderate to severe stage, whereas Mom may be just beginning to experience mild cognitive decline. While your dad will obviously need more attention, you should be careful not to overlook your mom’s needs as she begins to experience the effects of cognitive decline.
It’s possible that you previously counted on your mother to keep your parents’ household functioning, but now that she’s been diagnosed, she may no longer be able to do so. It’s important for you to check in with your parents more frequently and be attuned to even small changes that may alert you to an increased need for help. Perhaps it’s something as seemingly innocuous as the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-16/10-early-alzheimers-warning-signs/">house being less tidy or mail piling up in the foyer</a>, but if this is new behavior, you may wish to step in to offer more direct help.
As the needs progress for both parents with Alzheimer’s, you may find it appropriate to advocate for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">enlisting a dementia care provider</a> to help out a few days each week with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, grooming and dressing.
<h3>About the Author</h3>
Diane Franklin is a freelance writer and editor who writes regularly about senior living and healthcare. She has also written hundreds of articles for business and trade publications, including leading magazines for the credit union and retail paint industries.
Are you caring for two parents with Alzheimer’s? What are some of the challenges you face and the lessons you’ve learned?
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">How to Talk With a Parent About Dementia Symptoms</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">Supporting the Other Parent After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/tips-for-dealing-with-a-parent-who-denies-dementia/">Top Tips for Dealing With a Parent Who Denies Dementia Symptoms</a></li>
</ul>

How to Help Two Parents With Alzheimer’s Disease

Having one parent diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is difficult for family caregivers but when both of your parents have Alzheimer’s, the burden more than doubles. The help you were receiving from one parent is replaced by the challenges of caring for both. How to Help Two Parents With Alzheimer’s Here is some advice on how […]

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are two terms often used interchangeably. However, the two conditions are different and diagnosing the cause of impaired cognition is incredibly important.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Diagnosis-Matters-Is-It-Alzheimers-or-Another-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Diagnosis Matters: Is It Alzheimer&#039;s or Another Dementia?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68230" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Diagnosis-Matters-Is-It-Alzheimers-or-Another-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Diagnosis-Matters-Is-It-Alzheimers-or-Another-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Diagnosis-Matters-Is-It-Alzheimers-or-Another-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about other conditions that cause dementia and why <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/difference-between-alzheimers-and-dementia/">getting the correct diagnosis</a> is important.
<h2>Why an Alzheimer&#8217;s or Another Dementia Diagnosis Matters</h2>
It is not uncommon for seniors to be told they have Alzheimer’s when they, in fact, have another form of dementia. There are a <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/03/18/703944116/is-it-alzheimers-or-another-dementia-the-right-answer-matters" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/03/18/703944116/is-it-alzheimers-or-another-dementia-the-right-answer-matters">wide range of brain diseases</a> that can impair memory, judgment and thinking, including strokes and certain forms of Parkinson’s disease.
Dr. Julie Schneider, professor at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/illinois/chicago/">Chicago</a> and the scientific chair of a summit held at the National Institutes of Health notes, “There’s a host of things that can cause loss of cognitive function.”
<blockquote>She also notes that many patients have more than one disease affecting brain health. While many of these diseases have no cure, it is still important to get the right diagnosis to ensure <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">patients are receiving the best care and treatment</a> plan.</blockquote>
Studies have shown that 20-50% of the 5.8 million people living with dementia have <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/types-of-dementia/">another type of disease</a>. The Alzheimer’s Association has found that vascular disease, caused by damage to blood vessels, accounts for up to 10% of all dementia cases. Additionally, Lewy body disease, closely related to Parkinson’s, also accounts for up to 10% of dementia cases and frontotemporal lobar degeneration accounts for less than 10% of dementia cases but affects the area of the brain involved in behavior, language and personality.
&#8220;We still believe that Alzheimer&#8217;s is important,&#8221; Dr. Schneider says. &#8220;But these other pathologies are also important.”
<blockquote><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">Getting the diagnosis right</a> can help manage symptoms of dementia, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-family-relationships-and-roles-change-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">help families prepare for the future</a>, and in some cases, may slow the progression of the disease.</blockquote>
Have you, a parent or a senior loved one received an incorrect Alzheimer’s diagnosis? How did receiving the correct diagnosis change your family&#8217;s care plan? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">After a Diagnosis: Early-Stage Caregiving Tips</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-family-relationships-and-roles-change-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">How Family Relationships and Roles Change After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">What Are the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?</a></li>
</ul>

Diagnosis Matters: Is It Alzheimer's or Another Dementia?

Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are two terms often used interchangeably. However, the two conditions are different and diagnosing the cause of impaired cognition is incredibly important. Learn more about other conditions that cause dementia and why getting the correct diagnosis is important. Why an Alzheimer’s or Another Dementia Diagnosis Matters It is not uncommon for […]

If you have a parent or senior loved one who has been newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may have witnessed the impact it has had on each family member. Families may react differently to the initial news that their loved one has been diagnosed with such a severe disease and each person in the family may require a different amount of time to fully acclimate. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Family-Relationships-and-Roles-Change-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-300x158.jpg" alt="How Family Relationships and Roles Change After an Alzheimer&#039;s Diagnosis" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68319" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Family-Relationships-and-Roles-Change-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Family-Relationships-and-Roles-Change-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Family-Relationships-and-Roles-Change-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about how the disease can affect family relationships and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">how roles can change after an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis</a>.
<h2>How an Alzheimer&#8217;s Diagnosis Affects Family Relationships</h2>
See how <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis</a> can affect adult children, spouses and younger family members as well as the ways that families can best support each other during this time:
<h3>Adult Children</h3>
The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">adult children of parents who have received an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis</a> will understandably have their own difficulties when adjusting to the diagnosis, like the stress that comes along with the role reversal. This means they must take on their parent’s responsibilities, which can lead to feelings that range from denial to guilt.
The response of adult children depends, in part, on what the relationship was like before the diagnosis. Was the adult child more dependent on the parent for emotional and/or financial support? These adult children may have a particularly tough time accepting the fact that they can no longer lean on their parent; to take it a step further, they must now become the parent. It’s a lot to swallow.
How to Help Adult Children
To support adult children, family members and friends should consider:
<ul>
<li>Encouraging the adult child to seek out a support group</li>
<li>Giving plenty of listening, reassurance and understanding without judgment</li>
<li>Offering respite care</li>
<li>Taking on some of the many tasks required, such as balancing the checkbook, paying the bills, providing transportation to medical appointments and more</li>
</ul>
<h3>Spouses</h3>
The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">spouse of a person with the disease</a> will likely have some very intense feelings in reaction to an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis. The news may impact many different aspects of a couple’s life.  Often, spouses go through a deep sense of loss of future plans. This can trigger depression and sadness. Other changes that couples may experience after a diagnosis can include changes in the way that couples relate to each other, challenges in a level of health and a reversal of roles.
The outcome of an early Alzheimer’s diagnosis is not always so grim in couples, however. Some people report that they are closer than they were before because they may spend more time together than they did before the diagnosis. Of course, as time goes by, the disease will force spouses to accept that their loved one has changed. To be able to cope with the enormity of the disease and changes in a spouse’s life, it’s vital that the spouse seeks help and support early on.
How to Help a Spouse
Family members and friends can pitch in to help with the many tasks that will fall on the shoulders of the spouse, like:
<ul>
<li>Housework</li>
<li>Meal planning and shopping</li>
<li>Personal care (which will evolve in time, as the various stages of the disease arise)</li>
<li>Safety and supervision</li>
<li>Transportation needs (including many medical appointments)</li>
</ul>
In addition to helping spouses deal with the many jobs they will need to take on after an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis, it’s important to also help the spouse by:
<ul>
<li>Assisting with finding a local Alzheimer&#8217;s support group for spouses</li>
<li>Assisting with finding a caregiver or a memory care community</li>
<li>Guiding the spouse towards professional counseling if needed</li>
<li>Supporting the spouse with encouragement and understanding</li>
</ul>
<h3>Young Family Members</h3>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/3-13-15-help-children-understand-dementia/">Teenagers or young children</a> who have a grandparent or a parent who received an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis also need help and support. They need someone to listen to their concerns and answer their questions about the disease. Often, children and teenagers feel a wide range of emotions and are dealing with anger, fear or sadness as well.
How to Help Younger Family Members
Family members and friends can help the younger members of the family by:
<ul>
<li>Connecting them with a peer support group of young people</li>
<li>Encouraging them to talk about their feelings and ask questions</li>
<li>Guiding them in identifying some fun activities they can do with their loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s (like listen to old music or look at family pictures together)</li>
<li>Providing age-specific books and educational websites to help them learn about the disease</li>
</ul>
<h2>Families Working Together</h2>
Working together as a family is the optimal scenario when dealing with an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis.
Getting together for regular family meetings on an ongoing basis helps each person to have an opportunity to communicate what’s going on. Sharing ideas on how to handle solutions and discussing what works and what doesn’t work is an ideal way to structure the dialogue during family meetings.
Families that are struggling to work well together may want to consider finding a geriatric care manager or mediator to help the family identify their loved one’s needs and divide the many tasks involved in caring for them.
How did your relationship or role change within your family after a parent or senior loved one&#8217;s Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">After a Diagnosis: Early-Stage Caregiving Tips</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/supporting-the-other-parent-after-an-alzheimers-diagnosis/">Supporting the Other Parent After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis</a></li>
</ul>

How Family Relationships and Roles Change After an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

If you have a parent or senior loved one who has been newly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may have witnessed the impact it has had on each family member. Families may react differently to the initial news that their loved one has been diagnosed with such a severe disease and each person in the […]

Summer is just around the corner and for many of us, that means fun family vacations. These vacations can turn stressful, however, for caregivers who are traveling with a parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67426" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/10-Caregiver-Tips-for-Traveling-With-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="10 Caregiver Tips for Traveling With Alzheimer's" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/10-Caregiver-Tips-for-Traveling-With-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/10-Caregiver-Tips-for-Traveling-With-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/10-Caregiver-Tips-for-Traveling-With-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Although it can be overwhelming, foresight and proper preparation make it possible. Learn more from these <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-11-14-lessons-from-alzheimers-caregivers/">caregiver tips</a> for traveling with Alzheimer’s.
<h2>Should You Travel With Alzheimer&#8217;s?</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s is a progressive disease with symptoms worsening over time. No matter if you’re traveling a short distance for a family reunion or planning a longer vacation, carefully weigh the pros and cons of traveling with a loved one with the disease.
In the early stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s and with the right preparation, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-11/safe-summer-with-alzheimers/">traveling in the summer</a> can still be enjoyable. However, as the disease progresses, travel may simply become too overwhelming.
When planning your vacation, consider these factors:
<ul>
<li>Can you travel comfortably and safely?</li>
<li>Do you have a support system available when you arrive?</li>
<li>Is the destination a familiar one to your loved one?</li>
<li>Will the trip be too disorientating for your loved one?</li>
</ul>
<h2>10 Tips for Traveling With Alzheimer’s</h2>
Once you decide you can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">make the trip safely</a>, here are 10 ways caregivers can lessen the stress of traveling with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s:
<h3>1. Allow extra time.</h3>
Whether driving in a car or taking a flight, keep in mind that your loved one may need extra time to feel comfortable in their new surroundings. Stay patient with them and allow plenty of time <a href="http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-and-traveling.asp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-and-traveling.asp">to make travel less stressful</a>.
<h3>2. Be sure your loved one is wearing an identification bracelet.</h3>
This is especially important for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/helping-a-loved-one-with-dementia-who-wanders/">seniors who may wander</a>. If you do not have an ID bracelet for them, put their name on their clothing and be sure they have your number and a list of medical conditions in their wallet.
<h3>3. Carry important documents and medications with you.</h3>
<a href="https://www.alzinfo.org/articles/10-tips-for-traveling-with-your-loved-one/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">These documents</a> should include emergency contact information, a list of current food allergies, medications and physician information. Also, have your travel itinerary and insurance information readily available.
<h3>4. Consider hiring a medical transport service.</h3>
If your travel needs are imminent and you cannot leave <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">a loved one in respite care</a> but anticipate travel will be extremely difficult, consider hiring a medical transport service. These professionals can provide air and ground transportation and many will allow a caregiver or small pet to accompany your loved one.
<h3>5. Consider staying in a hotel rather than with relatives.</h3>
A hotel can give your loved one a calm place to go when the trip becomes hectic. They may also be able to stick to their routine better in a hotel. In addition, some family members may not be familiar with Alzheimer’s and might not know what to expect. Be sure to make the hotel staff aware of any <a href="http://www.bannerhealth.com/Services/Health+And+Wellness/Ask+the+Expert/Alzheimers+Disease/_Traveling+with+an+Alzheimers+Patient.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.bannerhealth.com/Services/Health+And+Wellness/Ask+the+Expert/Alzheimers+Disease/_Traveling+with+an+Alzheimers+Patient.htm">special needs in advance</a>.
<h3>6. Create an itinerary for emergency contacts.</h3>
Make your own itinerary and distribute it to family and friends while also keeping a copy with you at all times. The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">itinerary should detail</a> your emergency phone numbers, flight numbers, medication needs, travel times and any other pertinent information. Keep it easily accessible to quickly find which can make the day of travel much smoother.
<h3>7. Keep surroundings as familiar as possible.</h3>
People with Alzheimer’s often <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-home-safety-tips-from-the-mayo-clinic/">have difficulty in new environments</a> so try to bring familiar things from home on your trip (i.e., blankets, pajamas and pillows). Try to keep their routine the same to avoid confusion.
<h3>8. Keep travel time to less than four hours.</h3>
If your drive or flight is longer than four hours, be sure to have at least two caregivers present. Have <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">activities and photos</a> prepared to keep your loved one busy during the travel time.
<h3>9. Limit connections and layovers.</h3>
Try to take a direct flight to your destination to avoid a tight connection, further distress and a missed flight. Many airlines will allow you to pre-board which will <a href="http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-and-traveling.asp" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-and-traveling.asp">give your loved one more time to adjust to their new surroundings</a>.
<h3>10. Set realistic expectations.</h3>
People with Alzheimer’s need consistency so it is often easier to travel with someone in the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">earlier stages of the disease</a>. If your loved one exhibits delusional, disinhibited behavior, physical or verbal aggression, has a high risk of falling or has unstable medical conditions it may be a better idea to find summer fun locally.
Do you have any suggestions for traveling with Alzheimer&#8217;s? What was your experience like traveling with a loved one with the disease? We&#8217;d like to hear your tips in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-11-14-lessons-from-alzheimers-caregivers/">Lessons Learned From Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">Safety Checklist for Alzheimer’s and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-11/safe-summer-with-alzheimers/">Ways Your Loved One With Alzheimer&#8217;s Can Have a Safe Summer</a></li>
</ul>

10 Caregiver Tips for Traveling With Alzheimer's

Summer is just around the corner and for many of us, that means fun family vacations. These vacations can turn stressful, however, for caregivers who are traveling with a parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Although it can be overwhelming, foresight and proper preparation make it possible. Learn more from these caregiver tips for traveling with […]

Last Updated: May 1, 2019
Summer brings adventures and explorations outdoors, as well as an opportunity to make incredible memories with parents and senior loved ones. While you plan your summer fun, consider taking these six precautions to keep your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease safe. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Ways-Your-Loved-One-With-Alzheimers-Can-Have-a-Safe-Summer-300x158.jpg" alt="6 Ways Your Loved One With Alzheimer&#039;s Can Have a Safe Summer" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67997" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Ways-Your-Loved-One-With-Alzheimers-Can-Have-a-Safe-Summer-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Ways-Your-Loved-One-With-Alzheimers-Can-Have-a-Safe-Summer-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Ways-Your-Loved-One-With-Alzheimers-Can-Have-a-Safe-Summer.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read our tips on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">keeping your loved one safe</a> this summer while still enjoying all that the season has to offer.
<h2>6 Precautions to Take to Keep a Senior Loved One With Alzheimer&#8217;s Safe This Summer</h2>
Here are some tips that can help your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-8-14-location-devices-dementia/">have a safe summer</a>:
<h3>1. Apply sunscreen regularly.</h3>
A senior with Alzheimer&#8217;s may not remember to put on sunscreen, so be sure to remind them to reapply when needed.
<h3>2. Avoid crowds and loud noises.</h3>
Both crowds and loud noises can be overwhelming for a loved one, so consider attending any parades or watching any firework from a distance.
<h3>3. Be watchful around water.</h3>
It&#8217;s best to have any home pools protected by a fence but keep a watchful eye on any loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s (<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/helping-a-loved-one-with-dementia-who-wanders/">who may wander</a>) to prevent an accident.
<h3>4. Dress appropriately.</h3>
As the disease progresses, decision-making becomes more difficult. Put away any winter clothes and make light summer clothing easily accessible for your loved ones.
<h3>5. Limit sun exposure.</h3>
Try to stay in shaded areas as much as possible and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-home-safety-tips-from-the-mayo-clinic/">stay inside during the hottest part of the day</a>, usually from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
<h3>6. Stay hydrated.</h3>
Our loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s may not realize that they are thirsty, so encourage them to drink frequently. Avoid alcohol and caffeine as these drinks may contribute to dehydration.
<h2>Safe Summer Activities for Loved Ones</h2>
While some <a href="http://alzheimers.about.com/od/caregiving/a/11-Tips-For-Summer-Safety-In-Dementia.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">extra safety precautions</a> are necessary to enjoy the warm weather, don&#8217;t let that stop you from getting your loved one outside this season.
Activities like these can be fun and safe for many seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s:
<ul>
<li>Attending a baseball game or another sporting event</li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">Bicycling and exercise classes</a></li>
<li>Family reunions</li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-16/gardening-helps-alzheimers/">Gardening</a></li>
<li>Going to an outdoor movie</li>
<li>Having a picnic</li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-04/traveling-with-alzheimers/">Traveling</a></li>
</ul>
What are your favorite safe summer activities to do with your senior loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s? Share your favorite activities with us in the comments below. 
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-04/traveling-with-alzheimers/">10 Caregiver Tips for Traveling With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">Safety Checklist for Alzheimer’s and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-07-16-ways-to-keep-a-loved-one-who-wanders-safe/">5 Ways to Keep a Loved One Who Wanders Safe</a></li>
</ul>

6 Ways Your Loved One With Alzheimer's Can Have a Safe Summer

Last Updated: May 1, 2019 Summer brings adventures and explorations outdoors, as well as an opportunity to make incredible memories with parents and senior loved ones. While you plan your summer fun, consider taking these six precautions to keep your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease safe. Read our tips on keeping your loved one safe […]

When a mother or senior loved one has dementia, it’s easy to get caught up thinking about how to honor her on Mother&#8217;s Day, but it’s also important not to overlook dementia caregivers during this time. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Giving-Thanks-to-Dementia-Caregivers-on-Mothers-Day-300x158.jpg" alt="Giving Thanks to Dementia Caregivers on Mother’s Day" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68242" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Giving-Thanks-to-Dementia-Caregivers-on-Mothers-Day-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Giving-Thanks-to-Dementia-Caregivers-on-Mothers-Day-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Giving-Thanks-to-Dementia-Caregivers-on-Mothers-Day.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
This Mother’s Day, take the opportunity to say thank you to a dementia caregiver in your life by using these five gift-giving tips.
<h2>5 Ways to Give Thanks to Dementia Caregivers on Mother&#8217;s Day</h2>
According to <a href="http://thewomensalzheimersmovement.org/research-3/research-3-2/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement</a>, three out of every five people who care for a person with dementia are women. Additionally, of all dementia caregivers, one-third are women who are simultaneously caring for their own children while also caring for a parent or senior loved one.
<blockquote>Although flowers and gifts are nice sentiments, if you want to give something that will really be valued this Mother’s Day, consider giving the gift of your time – something that caregivers never seem to have enough of.</blockquote>
Here are five <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/mothers-day-gift-guide-for-dementia/">gift-giving ideas</a> that will show dementia caregivers just how special they really are this Mother&#8217;s Day:
<h3>1. Encourage journaling.</h3>
Buying a personal journal for a mother and encouraging her to sit down each day to write down some of her feelings about dementia caregiving is a great way to honor her on Mother’s Day.  Journaling is a powerful <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/tips-for-finding-the-right-therapist-for-alzheimers-caregivers/">way to process emotions</a>, and for some people, it’s the only way they can successfully communicate their feelings.
<h3>2. Offer resources.</h3>
Do some research and compile a list of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/">online resources and tools for caregivers</a>, then send the list of links to her in an email, with a digital Happy Mother’s Day card. Ideas for some good resources can be found on the Alzheimer’s Association website.
<h3>3. Offer respite care.</h3>
If you live close enough geographically, offer some respite care time to give her a much-needed break from the daily grind. Think about taking over the caregiving responsibilities for a morning, a day, or longer. If you aren’t comfortable managing caregiving tasks yourself, or if you live too far away, you can always <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">hire a professional</a>. Taking time off from caregiving has been shown to be a vital part of de-stressing for a person’s long-term health and wellbeing.
<h3>4. Provide support.</h3>
Connect them with <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/best-alzheimers-support-groups/">a local or online support group</a> that focuses on allowing caregivers to share their feelings, express frustrations and get ideas on how other caregivers cope. This doesn’t mean just informing her that a group exists, but, rather, taking the time to find a local group (or several for her to choose from) and perhaps even offer a ride to the meeting. Like the positive impact that respite care services have on caregivers, support groups help caregivers deal with stress, providing a feeling of comfort and a sense of not being so alone in the caregiving journey.
<h3>5. Saying &#8220;thank you.&#8221;</h3>
Honor her by posting her personal story or posting a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">&#8220;thank you&#8221; message online</a>. Dementia caregivers may not have the time to sit down and write out their own version of their caregiving journey, so by listening to her feelings and thoughts and jotting down some ideas, you can show the world what a hero she really is. Sharing her story and posting it on Mother’s Day may help her realize just how valuable she really is.
<blockquote>Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity to give a dementia caregiver a gift that helps her know how truly important and valued she is.</blockquote>
Your love and support can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/balance-life-as-an-alzheimers-caregiver/">help make a difference</a> when it comes to her ability to manage daily caregiving tasks, cope with stress and continue to provide great care for a loved one with dementia.
How are you planning to give thanks to a dementia caregiver on Mother&#8217;s Day? We&#8217;d like to hear more about your plans in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/mothers-day-gift-guide-for-dementia/">Mother’s Day Gift Guide for Moms With Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/spring-activities-for-seniors-with-dementia/">Spring Activities for Seniors With Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/perfect-mothers-day-brunch-for-a-loved-one-with-alzheimers/">The Perfect Mother’s Day Brunch for a Loved One With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Giving Thanks to Dementia Caregivers on Mother’s Day

When a mother or senior loved one has dementia, it’s easy to get caught up thinking about how to honor her on Mother’s Day, but it’s also important not to overlook dementia caregivers during this time. This Mother’s Day, take the opportunity to say thank you to a dementia caregiver in your life by using these […]

Spring has arrived and if you are a caregiver to a parent or senior loved one with dementia, you may be ready to get outside and start enjoying some spring activities with them. People in all stages of the disease need to participate in activities to enjoy life, but when planning spring activities for a loved one with the disease, it may be important to scale down the length and number of outings.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Spring-Activities-for-Seniors-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Spring Activities for Seniors With Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68403" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Spring-Activities-for-Seniors-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Spring-Activities-for-Seniors-With-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Spring-Activities-for-Seniors-With-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read our tips on the top spring activities to share with loved ones with dementia.
<h2>Spring Activities for Senior Loved Ones With Dementia</h2>
Caregivers to loved ones with dementia already know that it is necessary to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">adjust daily schedules as the disease progresses</a>, as there may be changes in a loved one’s abilities that require alternative planning.
Here are some suggestions for adapting spring activities for your loved one’s level of functioning with dementia:
<h3>1. Get outside and enjoy the fresh air.</h3>
Everyone wants to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/help-a-person-with-dementia-continue-to-enjoy-their-hobbies/">get outside and enjoy the fresh spring air</a> once the weather finally turns. Plan to:
<ul>
<li>Do some light gardening</li>
<li>Sit in the sun</li>
<li>Take a short walk</li>
</ul>
Be sure to keep your loved one comfortable, with layers of clothing that can be removed if it gets too warm, as well as a hat and light scarf to stay warm in case those chilly spring winds begin.
Alternative plan: For a loved one with the disease who is not mobile, consider creating a sitting space in front of a window and open the window to allow fresh air in. It’s one way that your loved one can still enjoy the smells and some of the wonderful sounds of spring. Think about hanging some bird or squirrel feeders nearby, to attract wildlife for your loved one to watch. This spring activity can provide hours of enjoyment.
<h3>2. Plan a flower-themed activity.</h3>
Flowers are one of the first and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-16/gardening-helps-alzheimers/">most enjoyable signs of spring</a>. Plan to:
<ul>
<li>Arrange flowers in vases around the house</li>
<li>Clean, dig, handle and plant flowers for a sensory experience for your loved oned</li>
<li>Pot flowers for indoor and outdoor decorations</li>
</ul>
Alternative plan: For a loved one who is unable to go outside, caregivers can cut fresh flowers for a loved one to enjoy. Other ideas may include making dried lavender sachets or drying flowers for indoor decorating.
<h3>3. Stroll through your local farmer’s market.</h3>
Visit your local farmers market to shop for some fresh flowers or local produce and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">provide some socialization and stimulation to a loved one</a>.
Alternative plan: For a loved one with the disease who is not mobile enough to go shopping, consider planning a favorite family spring recipe. Use fresh local produce and invite your loved one to help with the meal, whether that is cleaning, cooking or meal planning and preparation.
Some other <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/adapting-activities-people-alzheimers-disease" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">tips for planning spring outings</a> for loved ones with dementia include:
<ul>
<li>Adjusting your expectations to meet your loved one&#8217;s</li>
<li>Ensuring that your loved one feels successful</li>
<li>Inviting your loved one to help with the planning process if he/she is able</li>
<li>Matching the activity to your loved one’s abilities whenever possible</li>
<li>Planning an alternative activity just in case the plan does not work out</li>
<li>Taking into consideration your loved one’s likes and dislikes</li>
</ul>
What other spring activities have you participated in with your parent or senior loved one with dementia? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-06-16/gardening-helps-alzheimers/">Gardening Therapy Tips for People with Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/help-a-person-with-dementia-continue-to-enjoy-their-hobbies/">How to Help a Person With Dementia Continue to Enjoy Their Hobbies</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">10 Stimulating Activities for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Spring Activities for Seniors With Dementia

Spring has arrived and if you are a caregiver to a parent or senior loved one with dementia, you may be ready to get outside and start enjoying some spring activities with them. People in all stages of the disease need to participate in activities to enjoy life, but when planning spring activities for a […]

Last Updated: April 24, 2019
Researchers have found that active minds can help delay dementia symptoms, but a recent study has concluded that it does not delay the onset of the actual disease. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Active-Minds-Delay-Dementia-Symptoms-Not-Disease-300x158.jpg" alt="Active Minds Delay Dementia Symptoms, Not Disease" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68018" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Active-Minds-Delay-Dementia-Symptoms-Not-Disease-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Active-Minds-Delay-Dementia-Symptoms-Not-Disease-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Active-Minds-Delay-Dementia-Symptoms-Not-Disease.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about this research.
<h2>Active Minds Only Delay Dementia Symptoms, According to Study</h2>
A recent study published in <a href="http://www.neurology.org/content/86/12/1128" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Neurology</a> has found that <a href="http://www.nbcnews.com/health/aging/busy-brains-delay-alzheimer-s-symptoms-not-disease-n529451" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">challenging your brain and keeping the mind active</a> may delay dementia symptoms but that it does not appear to affect the disease.
The study evaluated nearly 400 people over the age of 70 without dementia and found that 53 participants had mild cognitive impairment. Each participant reported how often each month or week they exercised, completed household activities and estimated how often they had read books or magazines, played an instrument or socialized.
Researchers found that the buildup of amyloid plaque in the brain, a hallmark characteristic of Alzheimer&#8217;s, did not change based on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">activity level</a> for most people.
<h2>The Impact of Education on Brain Health</h2>
However, one group of people did exhibit lower levels of amyloid plaques based on activity level. Participants with at least 14 years of education who had the APOE4 gene, which is thought to increase the risk of Alzheimer&#8217;s, and kept mentally active in middle-age, had less plaque than <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">those who did not stay mentally fit</a>.
Researchers are not sure why only APOE4 carriers with higher levels of education demonstrated slower plaque accumulation, but say their findings should not discourage people from keeping an active lifestyle and making healthy choices. Study author Prashanthi Vemrui, Ph.D., from the Mayo Clinic, says:
<blockquote>&#8220;There is <a href="https://www.aan.com/PressRoom/home/PressRelease/1435" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">substantial evidence</a> that these activities help to delay the onset of memory and thinking problems. What we don&#8217;t know is how this process works.&#8221;</blockquote>
Regardless of the findings, researchers encourage people to find an activity they enjoy and expose their minds to challenging activities throughout their life to potentially delay the symptoms of dementia.
Which activities help you or your loved ones stay active and delay dementia symptoms? We&#8217;d like to hear your suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">How Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">What Are the Top Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/will-education-reduce-dementia-risk/">Will Education Really Reduce Dementia Risk?</a></li>
</ul>

Active Minds Delay Dementia Symptoms, Not Disease

Last Updated: April 24, 2019 Researchers have found that active minds can help delay dementia symptoms, but a recent study has concluded that it does not delay the onset of the actual disease. Learn more about this research. Active Minds Only Delay Dementia Symptoms, According to Study A recent study published in Neurology has found that […]

It is a long-held theory that the more time a person spends educating themselves, the better protected he or she is against dementia. Research has resulted in conflicting or inconclusive results, however, a new study suggests that while those with more education do demonstrate a higher level of cognitive functioning, it does not reduce dementia risk.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Will-Education-Really-Reduce-Dementia-Risk-300x158.jpg" alt="Will Education Really Reduce Dementia Risk?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68466" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Will-Education-Really-Reduce-Dementia-Risk-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Will-Education-Really-Reduce-Dementia-Risk-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Will-Education-Really-Reduce-Dementia-Risk.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the study and the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">relationship between education and dementia</a>.
<h2>Education and Its Impact on Dementia Risk</h2>
The study, led by Robert S. Wilson, Ph.D., of Rush University Medical Center in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/illinois/chicago/">Chicago</a> and published in <a href="https://n.neurology.org/content/43/1_Part_1/13" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://n.neurology.org/content/43/1_Part_1/13">Neurology</a>, set out to provide more insight into education and dementia risk. Involving 2,899 participants, researchers followed the participants for an average of eight years. The average age of participants at the beginning of the study was 78 and nearly 25% developed dementia over the course of the study. Participants were split into three levels of education: 17+ years, 13-16 years and 12 years or less.
<blockquote>Researchers found that even decades after participants had finished their education, those who spent a longer time in education had a higher level of cognitive functioning. However, they also found that a higher education level did not affect dementia risk or onset.</blockquote>
Additionally, contrary to previous studies, the participants&#8217; education had no impact on how quickly <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">dementia progressed after its onset</a>.
<h2>Why Education Is Important in Later Life</h2>
Wilson says the <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324357.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">education and dementia risk findings</a> are surprising, stating that the “finding that education apparently contributes little to cognitive reserve is surprising given that education affects cognitive growth and changes in brain structure.”
<blockquote>He says that the study indicates that “late-life activities involving memory and thinking skills, such as learning another language&#8230; or cognitively demanding work and having a purpose in life might be more important as we age.”</blockquote>
While the study was not entirely conclusive, it gives researchers a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/have-alzheimers-now-what/">further understanding of the disease</a> and the effects of education on the brain, suggesting that it becomes even more important with age.
Have you seen a correlation between your or a senior loved one&#8217;s education and dementia risk? We&#8217;d like to hear your experiences in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/have-alzheimers-now-what/">I Have Alzheimer’s, Now What?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">What Does Alzheimer’s Do to the Brain?</a></li>
</ul>

Will Education Really Reduce Dementia Risk?

It is a long-held theory that the more time a person spends educating themselves, the better protected he or she is against dementia. Research has resulted in conflicting or inconclusive results, however, a new study suggests that while those with more education do demonstrate a higher level of cognitive functioning, it does not reduce dementia […]

Last Updated: April 19, 2019
Several health ailments have been linked to Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Unfortunately, the disease itself can be a risk factor for other health problems, particularly as it progresses to later stages.<img class="alignright wp-image-67268 size-medium" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/6-Health-Ailments-That-Accompany-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="6 Health Ailments That Accompany Alzheimer's" width="290" height="153" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/6-Health-Ailments-That-Accompany-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/6-Health-Ailments-That-Accompany-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/6-Health-Ailments-That-Accompany-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 290px) 100vw, 290px" /> 
Learn more about six health ailments that accompany Alzheimer&#8217;s and ways to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">decrease your risk of the disease</a> through lifestyle changes.
<h2>How Alzheimer&#8217;s Can Impact Your Health</h2>
In the United States, more than <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">5.8 million people are currently living with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>. Research has shown that the disease results from multiple factors – rather than a single cause – and common risk factors include advanced age, family history and certain genetic mutations.
Due to the effects that Alzheimer&#8217;s has on the body, it also increases an individual&#8217;s risks for other health ailments, especially as the disease advances. In the early stages, Alzheimer&#8217;s affects not just memory but language as well. So, seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s may not report symptoms of another illness, such as a cold or even an injury.
The <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Mayo Clinic</a> explains that the cognitive changes, impaired judgment and memory loss of Alzheimer&#8217;s make it more difficult to treat other health conditions. For instance, people with Alzheimer&#8217;s may not follow a prescribed treatment plan for another illness and they may not notice any other medication&#8217;s side effects. So, what might start as a minor health issue may escalate to a severe problem.
<h2>6 Health Ailments That Accompany Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
As Alzheimer&#8217;s advances to later stages, it impacts a person&#8217;s ability to balance as well as control their bladder and bowels.
Our parents and senior loved ones with the disease can then <a href="http://www.healthline.com/health/alzheimers-disease-complications" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">become susceptible to several serious health problems</a>, including:
<ol>
<li>Dehydration and malnutrition: The more difficult it becomes to ingest food or water, the more likely a senior with Alzheimer&#8217;s may suffer dehydration or malnutrition.</li>
<li>Depression: Cognitive decline and a lack of social interaction may lead to depression as well as aggressive or violent behavior, delusions, mood swings and personality changes.</li>
<li>Fall-related injuries: Poor balance can lead to falls and related injuries, including fractures and serious head injuries.</li>
<li>Immobility: Seniors with late-stage Alzheimer&#8217;s are often bedridden, putting them at risk for bed sores, infections and loss of muscle function.</li>
<li>Pneumonia: The inability to swallow correctly increases a person&#8217;s chances of aspirating or inhaling food or liquid into their lungs; aspiration pneumonia is the leading cause of death for people with Alzheimer&#8217;s.</li>
<li>Urinary tract infections: Loss of bladder control may require insertion of a urinary catheter, which increases risks for urinary tract infections.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Ways to Decrease Alzheimer&#8217;s-Related Illnesses</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s affects individuals differently. So, not all people will suffer the same disease-related health conditions, although difficulty swallowing and incontinence are common ailments.
Unfortunately, Alzheimer&#8217;s cannot be prevented. But, people with a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-17/chances-of-developing-alzheimers/">family history of Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia</a> may consider incorporating certain lifestyle habits into their routine, like:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-10-21/dr-ochner-alzheimers-diet/">Eating a low-fat diet</a>, including cold-water fish (tuna, salmon and mackerel) that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids</li>
<li>Increasing intake of antioxidants by consuming plenty of dark-colored fruits and vegetables</li>
<li>Maintaining a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-02-05/high-blood-pressure-protein/">healthy blood pressure</a></li>
<li>Staying mentally and socially active throughout life</li>
</ul>
Talk to your health care provider about your risks for Alzheimer&#8217;s before you make any lifestyle changes, especially if you already take medication for another health issue.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer&#8217;s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/higher-blood-pressure-increases-your-risk-for-dementia/">How a Higher Blood Pressure at Midlife Increases Your Risk for Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">How Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

6 Health Ailments That Accompany Alzheimer's

Last Updated: April 19, 2019 Several health ailments have been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Unfortunately, the disease itself can be a risk factor for other health problems, particularly as it progresses to later stages. Learn more about six health ailments that accompany Alzheimer’s and ways to decrease your risk of the disease through lifestyle changes. […]

A new study presented at the International Stroke Conference and published online in the Scientific Reports journal has found a correlation between dementia and gut bacteria – finding that the depletion of certain gut bacteria results in an increased risk of the disease.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67263" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Dementia-and-Gut-Bacteria-New-Research-Shows-Link-300x158.jpg" alt="Dementia and Gut Bacteria: New Research Shows Link" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Dementia-and-Gut-Bacteria-New-Research-Shows-Link-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Dementia-and-Gut-Bacteria-New-Research-Shows-Link-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Dementia-and-Gut-Bacteria-New-Research-Shows-Link.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the study and what it means for the future of dementia research.
<h2>Dementia and Gut Bacteria</h2>
The <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-38218-7" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">study involved 128 outpatients visiting a memory care clinic</a>. Researchers accounted for demographics, including other dementia risk factors, and used MRI brain scans and neuropsychological tests to assess cognitive function. To determine gut microbiota (organisms that live in the digestive tract and account for about a thousand different species of bacteria), researchers used fecal samples.
Study participants were divided into people with and without the disease. Their analysis revealed <a href="https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/908769#vp_3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/908769#vp_3">differences in components of gut microbiota</a> between the two groups. For the group with dementia, levels of bactericides (enterotype I) was decreased compared to the group without dementia. Meanwhile, other bacteria types (enterotype II) were increased in the group with dementia. The fecal samples also revealed higher concentrations of ammonia, indole, phenol and skatole, in the group with dementia.
<blockquote>&#8220;Although our study has numerous limitations, the results suggest that the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/calorie-restriction-diets-may-improve-risks-for-age-related-diseases/">gut microbiome could be a new target for the management of dementia</a>,&#8221; study author Naoki Saji, MD, Ph.D., vice director of the Center for Comprehensive Care and Research on Memory Disorders, National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan, says.</blockquote>
<h2>Strong Evidence of Link Between the Two</h2>
While the study was unable to prove a causal relationship and had a small sample size, researchers believe the odds ratios in the study were high, suggesting an underlying mechanism in the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-07-15-midlife-weight-connected-to-alzheimers/">effects of gut microbial composition on brain health</a>.
Costantino Iadecola, MD, professor of neurology at Weill Cornell Medical College and director of the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/new-york/">New York City</a>, remarked, &#8220;It&#8217;s difficult for studies in this field to draw correlations. The microbiota is variable and it can be modified by a wide variety of factors&#8230;.&#8221;
<blockquote>Acknowledging its limitations, the study still supports previous data linking brain health and diet. Some researchers believe a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-mediterranean-diet/">Mediterranean diet</a> rich in fish, fruits and vegetables may be beneficial while others promote a traditional Japanese diet. Most agree that processed foods and sugars have a negative impact on brain health.</blockquote>
Have you seen a correlation between dementia and gut bacteria in your life? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/calorie-restriction-diets-may-improve-risks-for-age-related-diseases/">Calorie Restriction Diets May Improve Risks for Age-Related Diseases</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">How Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce the Risk of Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-07-15-midlife-weight-connected-to-alzheimers/">Midlife Weight Connected to an Earlier Risk of Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Dementia and Gut Bacteria: New Research Shows Link

A new study presented at the International Stroke Conference and published online in the Scientific Reports journal has found a correlation between dementia and gut bacteria – finding that the depletion of certain gut bacteria results in an increased risk of the disease. Learn more about the study and what it means for the future […]

Last Updated: April 15, 2019
Alzheimer&#8217;s disease is on the rise in the developed world, more so than other nations. But why? Research finds a direct correlation between good hygiene and increased rates of Alzheimer&#8217;s.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67256" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Good-Hygiene-Linked-to-Increased-Rates-of-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="Good Hygiene Linked to Increased Rates of Alzheimer’s" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Good-Hygiene-Linked-to-Increased-Rates-of-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Good-Hygiene-Linked-to-Increased-Rates-of-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Good-Hygiene-Linked-to-Increased-Rates-of-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
It turns out that cleanliness may not be quite next to godliness after all. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-11-16-early-alzheimers-caused-by-haywire-immune-system/">This news may prove</a> that it may be better to stick to regular soaps — rather than chemical-laden antibacterial kinds — and not make such a fuss about every germ. Those bacteria and germs may be good for you after all.
<h2>Good Hygiene and Increased Rates of Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
As soon as my mom found out the children next door had chicken pox when I was five, she sent me over there to play. I still remember the terrible itchiness that I experienced when I broke out in red bumps after I&#8217;d contracted it from them almost immediately. Our parents used to recognize that exposure to germs was actually good for strengthening our immune systems. Recent studies show that has changed.
Research from the <a href="http://emph.oxfordjournals.org/content/2013/1/173" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Oxford Journal</a> has found a strong link between sanitized, wealthier countries and a higher rate of Alzheimer&#8217;s. This study, led by Dr. Molly Fox across 192 countries, suggests that the lack of exposure to bacteria creates a poorly developed immune system, leaving your brain at risk for inflammation. Exposure to microorganisms — both good and bad — is vitally important for the body to develop proper immune responses.
The researchers &#8220;hygiene hypothesis&#8221; conclude that since increasing global urbanization at the turn of the 19th century — the populations of many of the world&#8217;s wealthier nations have seen very little exposure to the so-called &#8216;friendly&#8217; microbes which &#8220;stimulate&#8221; the immune system due to &#8220;diminishing contact with animals, feces and soil.&#8221;
<blockquote>This reduced level of contact with bacteria and other kinds of infectious agents might stall the proper development of important elements of the body&#8217;s immune system, such as white blood cells. The team also suggests that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-progression-discovered/">developing Alzheimer&#8217;s might be linked to autoimmune disease</a>, in which the body&#8217;s immune system attacks itself.</blockquote>
&#8220;Alzheimer&#8217;s disease shares certain etiological features with autoimmunity,&#8221; the study states. &#8220;Prevalence of autoimmunity varies between populations in accordance with variation in environmental microbial diversity.&#8221; The researchers add:
&#8220;Exposure to microorganisms may improve individuals&#8217; immunoregulation in ways that protect against autoimmunity and we suggest this may also be the case for Alzheimer&#8217;s.&#8221;
<h2>New Research on Alzheimer&#8217;s, Antibiotics and Bacteria</h2>
The research offers no definitive guidance at this point, but the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-11-16-connection-between-dementia-and-infections/">awareness does lend some hope</a>.
&#8220;The increase in adult life expectancy and Alzheimer&#8217;s prevalence in developing countries is perhaps one of the greatest challenges of our time,&#8221; Fox says. &#8220;Today, more than 50% of people with Alzheimer&#8217;s live in the developing world and by 2025 it is expected that this figure will rise to more than 70%.&#8221;
Fox adds: &#8220;A better understanding of how environmental sanitation influences Alzheimer&#8217;s risk could open up avenues for both lifestyle and pharmaceutical strategies to limit Alzheimer&#8217;s prevalence. An awareness of this by-product of increasing wealth and development could encourage the innovation of new strategies to protect vulnerable populations from Alzheimer&#8217;s.&#8221;
More recently, researchers have taken a closer look at the importance of bacteria and hygiene for better brain health.
One of those researchers is the University of California at San Francisco psychiatrist, Steve Dominy, who studies neurocognitive disorders in people who are HIV positive. From his studies of the blood-brain barrier and the neural health of people with AIDS, Dominy believes he <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/08/08/are-microbes-stealing-your-mind.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">has detected a link between a specific type of bacteria and dementia</a>. Researchers are not yet disclosing the specific type of bacteria they believe may be responsible for dementia.
Last summer, Dominy co-founded <a href="http://www.cortexyme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cortexyme</a>, which has raised over $2.5 million to further investigate his idea, dubbed &#8220;bacterial neuro-degeneration.&#8221; Casey Lynch, co-founder and CEO of Cortexyme is excited about the unconventional approach to Alzheimer&#8217;s research saying, &#8220;A-beta has been the focus of billions and billions of dollars and a huge amount of research. Really 95% of the money has gone into this target but most of the studies are failing, so I was excited about a novel approach.&#8221; She went on to say:
<blockquote>&#8220;So we set out to do a number of experiments to prove to ourselves and the rest of the community, that this was indeed a credible theory and that we could develop treatments targeting it. The first thing we did was look at as many human brains as we could get our hands on. So far we&#8217;ve looked at 43 Alzheimer&#8217;s patients and every single one of them has this bacterial protease [enzymes that breaks down proteins] in their brain.&#8221;</blockquote>
She said that some healthy participants also showed small levels of the bacteria, which lead researchers to believe they may be at risk to develop Alzheimer&#8217;s later in life.
From here, researchers hope to find a way to shut down the bacteria, which is known to be antibiotic resistant. Cortexyme hopes to develop a drug that can protect neurons from the bacteria while also disabling it, without destroying it which could lead to toxins being released in the brain.
<h2>What You Can Do to Stay Healthy</h2>
But, don&#8217;t stop washing your hands just yet. Soap remains one of the modern world&#8217;s most effective and simple inventions for keeping myriad illnesses at bay. With that in mind, however, it&#8217;s a good idea to revert back to the good old-fashioned regular hand soap rather than the anti-bacterial kind. <a title="Triclosan Review" href="http://www.medicaldaily.com/fda-reviews-antibacterial-hand-soap-why-triclosan-bad-you-and-planet-245474" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Triclosan</a>, for example, is found in many antibacterial soaps and can cause a chemical reaction that leads to cancer, not to mention when we use it, it gets dumped right back into our water supply.
<blockquote>Above all, keep it simple when using everyday soap and avoid all the unnecessary chemicals whenever you can.</blockquote>
Do you or a loved one have a favorite milled soap with natural scents, like lavender or lemon verbena? Now might be a great time to find a lovely, organic soap to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">use to stay healthy</a>.
What else can you do to help your parent or senior loved one maintain good hygiene? We&#8217;d like to hear your suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-11-16-early-alzheimers-caused-by-haywire-immune-system/">Early Alzheimer’s Could Be Caused by Haywire Immune System</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-progression-discovered/">How Does Alzheimer’s Spread in the Brain? New Progression Discovered</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-11-16-connection-between-dementia-and-infections/">The Connection Between Dementia and Infections</a></li>
</ul>

Good Hygiene Linked to Increased Rates of Alzheimer’s

Last Updated: April 15, 2019 Alzheimer’s disease is on the rise in the developed world, more so than other nations. But why? Research finds a direct correlation between good hygiene and increased rates of Alzheimer’s. It turns out that cleanliness may not be quite next to godliness after all. This news may prove that it […]

Can brushing your teeth regularly boost your brain health? A new study suggests that brain and oral health may be closely linked. The study, published in Science Advances, links Alzheimer&#8217;s and gingivitis and also suggests that the bacteria may even spur the production of beta-amyloid proteins, a toxic protein that is a hallmark characteristic of the disease. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-and-Gingivitis-Disease-Linked-to-Gum-Disease-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer's and Gingivitis: Disease Linked to Gum Disease" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68045" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-and-Gingivitis-Disease-Linked-to-Gum-Disease-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-and-Gingivitis-Disease-Linked-to-Gum-Disease-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-and-Gingivitis-Disease-Linked-to-Gum-Disease.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the study and how Alzheimer&#8217;s could be linked to gum disease.
<h2>Alzheimer’s and Gingivitis Linked</h2>
Gingivitis is the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/gum-disease-could-lead-to-the-development-of-alzheimers/">first stage of gum disease</a> and occurs when the gums become inflamed because of bacterial plaque on the surface of the teeth. Over 50% of all adults experience gingivitis, but its effects are usually reversible.
If left untreated, however, “sub-gingival pockets” can form between the tooth and gum. These are filled with bacteria and are evidence that the gingivitis has moved into periodontitis. Once the disease has moved into this stage, it is nearly impossible to eliminate, but it can be controlled.
A recent study published in <a href="http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/1/eaau3333" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://advances.sciencemag.org/content/5/1/eaau3333">Science Advances</a> found that a certain type of bacteria in periodontitis, called Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) was also present in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s. Conducted and self-funded by U.S. pharmaceutical company Cortexyme, the study also ran tests on mice showing how the bacteria spread to the brain, where it destroyed neurons and reproduced all the characteristic features of the disease.
<h2>The Connection Between Brain and Oral Health</h2>
This study is the latest of <a href="https://blogs.sciencemag.org/pipeline/archives/2019/01/25/a-new-infectious-mechanism-for-alzheimers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://blogs.sciencemag.org/pipeline/archives/2019/01/25/a-new-infectious-mechanism-for-alzheimers">several studies</a> to connect brain health and oral health. Researchers from the University of Central Lancashire were the first to make the connection between Alzheimer&#8217;s and P. gingivalis. Other studies have linked Alzheimer&#8217;s to the Herpes type I virus and a 2016 study found that people with the disease and periodontitis experienced a more rapid cognitive decline.
In response to the study, Cortexyme, Inc. has developed an <a href="https://www.cortexyme.com/single-post/2019/01/23/Cortexyme-announces-publication-of-foundational-data-for-groundbreaking-approach-to-treating-Alzheimers-disease-in-Science-Advances" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.cortexyme.com/single-post/2019/01/23/Cortexyme-announces-publication-of-foundational-data-for-groundbreaking-approach-to-treating-Alzheimers-disease-in-Science-Advances">investigational drug called COR388</a>. The company claims that preclinical trials have shown that the drug can slow the production of beta-amyloid, reduce inflammation and reduce the P. Gingivalis bacteria.
<blockquote>“Now, for the first time, we have solid evidence connecting the intracellular, Gram-negative pathogen, P. gingivalis, and Alzheimer’s pathogenesis. This&#8230; demonstrates the potential for a class of small molecule therapies to change the trajectory of disease,” Dr. Stephen Dominy, Cortexyme’s co-founder and lead author of the paper said in a press release.</blockquote>
While more research needs to be done to establish a causal relationship, experts caution that not everyone who has gum disease will go on to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-health-ailments/">develop Alzheimer’s</a> and not everyone who has Alzheimer’s will have gum disease.
Researchers hope to develop more tests to identify who may be at a higher risk for Alzheimer&#8217;s and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">how to reduce the risk of developing the disease</a> through better oral health.
Have you seen a relationship between Alzheimer&#8217;s and gingivitis? We&#8217;d like to hear more about your experiences in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-health-ailments/">6 Health Ailments That Accompany Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/gum-disease-could-lead-to-the-development-of-alzheimers/">How Gum Disease Could Lead to the Development of Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's and Gingivitis: Disease Linked to Gum Disease

Can brushing your teeth regularly boost your brain health? A new study suggests that brain and oral health may be closely linked. The study, published in Science Advances, links Alzheimer’s and gingivitis and also suggests that the bacteria may even spur the production of beta-amyloid proteins, a toxic protein that is a hallmark characteristic of the disease. […]

As the search for a dementia cure continues, many researchers are prioritizing early detection and prevention of the disease. One way dementia can be spotted early is through biomarkers like changes in the function and size of the brain, as well as changes in – or composition of – cerebrospinal fluid and protein levels.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-Blood-Brain-Barrier-Test-Predict-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Could a Blood-Brain Barrier Test Predict Dementia?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68228" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-Blood-Brain-Barrier-Test-Predict-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-Blood-Brain-Barrier-Test-Predict-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-Blood-Brain-Barrier-Test-Predict-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about a new study that examines the role of biomarkers in the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier, as shown in the cerebrospinal fluid, and how it may predict dementia years before its onset.
<h2>The Blood-Brain Barrier and Dementia</h2>
Although there is no cure or treatment for dementia, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">early detection can help mitigate and sometimes even slow disease symptoms</a>, allow for more time to prepare for a future with dementia and allow people with the disease to participate in clinical trials.
&#8220;Because of our aging population and growing public health concerns, efforts to find a reliable predictor of cognitive impairment and dementia are very important to researchers and the public,&#8221; explains Dr. Suzana Petanceska, a program director at the National Institute on Aging (NIA).
One new <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-018-0297-y" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-018-0297-y">study published in Nature Medicine</a> has found a potential new predictor of dementia in the cerebrospinal fluid, indicating that the <a href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/blood-brain-barrier-test-may-predict-dementia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/blood-brain-barrier-test-may-predict-dementia">blood-brain barrier has been compromised</a>. The blood-brain barrier separates circulating blood from the brain and allows passage of some gases, molecules and water. It also controls the movement of cells and molecules surrounding neurons.
<h2>The Breakdown of the Blood-Brain Barrier Is Linked to Cognitive Impairment</h2>
The study, led by Dr. Berislav V. Zlokovic at the University of Southern California, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/california/los-angeles/">Los Angeles</a>, evaluated two biomarkers in the breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Involving more than 160 people, some participants exhibited signs of cognitive decline and others did not. Researchers measured the levels of a soluble form of a protein found in capillaries called platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFRβ) in the cerebrospinal fluid. This is a soluble form of a protein that is present in cerebrospinal fluid and an indicator that the blood-brain barrier has been compromised.
Additionally, the research team used MRI-based imaging to examine the actual blood-brain barrier in 73 of the 160 participants.
<blockquote>They concluded that people who were cognitively impaired exhibited higher levels of PDGFRβ and an increasingly compromised breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. They did not see a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-protein-changes-predict-alzheimers-before-symptoms/">correlation between the presence of beta-amyloid plaques and tau proteins</a>, other biomarker of dementia, and these tests.</blockquote>
&#8220;This is a solid step towards an accurate and reliable test that could be the earliest sign of critical brain damage in some people with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and related dementias,&#8221; says Dr. Roderick Corriveau, a program director at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS).
Researchers hope to continue examining the role of the blood-brain barrier for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-3-14-blood-test-detects-alzheimers-early/">early dementia detection</a> by conducting a larger second trial.
Has your parent or senior loved one had an MRI for dementia? Would they be interested in a blood-brain barrier test? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">Better Alzheimer’s Prevention With Early Detection</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-protein-changes-predict-alzheimers-before-symptoms/">Blood Protein Changes Could Predict Alzheimer’s Years Before Symptoms</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-3-14-blood-test-detects-alzheimers-early/">Blood Test Detects Onset of Alzheimer’s a Decade Early</a></li>
</ul>

Could a Blood-Brain Barrier Test Predict Dementia?

As the search for a dementia cure continues, many researchers are prioritizing early detection and prevention of the disease. One way dementia can be spotted early is through biomarkers like changes in the function and size of the brain, as well as changes in – or composition of – cerebrospinal fluid and protein levels. Learn […]

Last Updated: April 8, 2019
&#8216;The latest blood test to detect Alzheimer&#8217;s may be able to predict the disease 10 years before symptoms occur with 100% accuracy. Researchers from the National Institute on Aging are focusing on a protein in the brain called IRS-1 that may signal the earliest stages of Alzheimer&#8217;s.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67253" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Blood-Test-Detects-Onset-of-Alzheimers-a-Decade-Early-300x158.jpg" alt="Blood Test Detects Onset of Alzheimer's a Decade Early" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Blood-Test-Detects-Onset-of-Alzheimers-a-Decade-Early-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Blood-Test-Detects-Onset-of-Alzheimers-a-Decade-Early.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about this study and what it means for future treatment and prevention methods.
<h2>Blood Test Detects Early Onset of Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
This year has seen the development of a few <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-14/blood-test-for-alzheimers/">types of blood tests</a> that could potentially diagnose Alzheimer&#8217;s before symptoms appear. One test uses fats in the bloodstream to predict the disease within three years with 90% accuracy, while the other blood test examined blood proteins and was able to predict the onset of dementia within a year with 87% accuracy.
The most recent test promises to <a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-11-16/alzheimer-s-blood-test-may-detect-disease-decade-before-onset.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">detect Alzheimer&#8217;s earlier</a> than any other test ever has by looking at a single protein in the brain called IRS-1, which plays a critical role in insulin signaling in the brain and is commonly defective in people with the disease.
Researchers from the National Institute on Aging, who <a href="http://www.fasebj.org/content/early/2014/10/23/fj.14-262048.abstract" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">presented the study</a> at the Society for Neuroscience conference in Washington, D.C., gathered blood samples from 174 participants. Of the 174 participants, 70 had Alzheimer&#8217;s, 20 had diabetes and 84 were healthy. They found that the participants who had Alzheimer&#8217;s had higher amounts of the inactive form of IRS-1 and lower amounts of the active form than those adults who were healthy. The participants who were diabetic had intermediate levels of IRS-1.
<blockquote>The results of the study were so consistent across the board that researchers were able to look at results and predict with 100% accuracy if the person was healthy or had Alzheimer&#8217;s.</blockquote>
<h2>New Blood Marker Renews Hope for Blood Test to Detect Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Another study from the University of Otago has also revealed another <a href="http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-04-alzheimer-diagnostic-blood.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="http://medicalxpress.com/news/2016-04-alzheimer-diagnostic-blood.html">blood marker that could help diagnose Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> through a simple blood test. Researchers found that participants with a small number of molecules found in the blood and brain called microRNAs can correctly detect Alzheimer&#8217;s with 86% accuracy.
This study involved participants that had been diagnosed with the disease, as well as neurologically healthy individuals. Researchers found that three microRNAs were different between the two groups and detecting these microRNAs would be possible through a simple blood test. Dr. Joanna Williams, who led the screening of microRNA in blood samples of participants, says, &#8220;Although there are other known markers of early Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, such as <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-protein-changes-predict-alzheimers-before-symptoms/">an accumulation of the protein</a> beta-amyloid in the brain, testing for these involves expensive or invasive procedures that can&#8217;t be used in routine clinical practice.&#8221;
<blockquote>Dr. Williams went on to state, &#8220;We know that the levels of these microRNAs differ in people who have Alzheimer&#8217;s and people who don&#8217;t. So if a general practitioner took a blood sample from a patient who was beginning to show symptoms of memory loss, what we&#8217;d do is analyze that blood and see how that patient&#8217;s pattern of microRNA compares against established patterns.&#8221;</blockquote>
More research is needed before a blood test can be definitively used to diagnose Alzheimer&#8217;s, but it is something researchers are working towards. They hope to not only develop a test to detect the presence of Alzheimer&#8217;s but also to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">find early signs of the disease</a>, before symptoms appear, optimizing treatment options for the individual.
<h2>Potential Breakthrough for Prevention and Treatment</h2>
Researchers hope that their findings lead to <a href="http://time.com/3590494/alzheimers-blood-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">breakthroughs in treatment methods</a>. Senior study author, Dr. Ed Goetzl, says:
&#8220;My vision of the future is you have your breakfast cereal, and on one side you have a statin for cardiovascular disease and on the other side you have three pills to prevent dementia.&#8221;
He went on to state that, &#8220;This study shows that insulin resistance is a major central nervous system metabolic abnormality in Alzheimer&#8217;s disease that contributes to neural cell damage. As insulin resistance is a known condition in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/diabetes-of-the-brain/">type 2 diabetes</a>&#8230; and is treatable with several classes of existing drugs, these treatments may be useful as part of a multi-agent program for Alzheimer&#8217;s.&#8221;
<blockquote>The blood test is still in the early stages of development and will require a larger and longer study before it can be used to detect Alzheimer&#8217;s. The lead author of the study and neuroscientist at the National Institute on Aging, Dimitrios Kapagiannis, says: &#8220;We will need replication and validation, but I&#8217;m very optimistic this work will hold.&#8221;</blockquote>
Do you think the newest blood test is a viable way to prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s disease? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">Better Alzheimer’s Prevention With Early Detection</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-protein-changes-predict-alzheimers-before-symptoms/">Blood Protein Changes Could Predict Alzheimer’s Years Before Symptoms</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-07-14/blood-test-for-alzheimers/">Blood Test Could Help Identify Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
</ul>

Blood Test Detects Onset of Alzheimer's a Decade Early

Last Updated: April 8, 2019 ‘The latest blood test to detect Alzheimer’s may be able to predict the disease 10 years before symptoms occur with 100% accuracy. Researchers from the National Institute on Aging are focusing on a protein in the brain called IRS-1 that may signal the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s. Learn more about this study […]

As researchers press for a cure for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, many are focusing on early detection and prevention. Early detection of Alzheimer’s can not only mitigate symptoms but potentially slow the progression of the disease as well. It can also help families prepare for a future with Alzheimer’s, outlining future caregiving plans.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Blood-Protein-Changes-Could-Predict-Alzheimers-Years-Before-Symptoms-300x158.jpg" alt="Blood Protein Changes Could Predict Alzheimer&#039;s Years Before Symptoms" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68214" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Blood-Protein-Changes-Could-Predict-Alzheimers-Years-Before-Symptoms-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Blood-Protein-Changes-Could-Predict-Alzheimers-Years-Before-Symptoms-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Blood-Protein-Changes-Could-Predict-Alzheimers-Years-Before-Symptoms.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
One new study utilizes a blood test to detect evidence of protein changes and damage and can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">predict Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> almost seven years before symptoms occur. Read more about this study.
<h2>A Blood Test to Predict Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
A team of researchers from Washington University in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/missouri/st-louis/">St. Louis</a> and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Tübingen found that a simple blood test that evaluates changes in <a href="https://qz.com/1529763/alzheimers-could-be-predicted-with-a-blood-test-before-symptoms-start/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://qz.com/1529763/alzheimers-could-be-predicted-with-a-blood-test-before-symptoms-start/">neurofilament light chain protein</a> levels can detect early signs of brain changes from Alzheimer’s before symptoms occur. The study was published in the January 21, 2019 edition of <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-018-0304-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-018-0304-3">Nature Medicine</a>. 
Participants in the study were chosen from the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s Network which is comprised of people with a genetic mutation that guarantees they will develop Alzheimer’s early. The study also included family members who do not have the mutation.
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-test-for-alzheimers/">To conduct the study, researchers took blood samples</a> from 243 people who had the mutation and 162 who did not. Blood samples were taken once every three years for six to nine years. They examined levels of a protein known as “neurofilament light chain” which gives structural support to brain cells.
<blockquote>High levels of this blood protein are known to indicate brain changes or damage, showing in the blood of people with Alzheimer’s.</blockquote>
Every participant had some level of neurofilament light chain <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/moving-closer-to-a-blood-test-for-dementia/">protein present in his or her blood</a> that increased over time.
However, people who were genetically at risk for Alzheimer’s accumulated more of the protein at a faster rate than those without the gene.
<h2>Using Blood Tests in a Clinical Setting</h2>
Brian Gorden, Ph.D., an author of the study and assistant professor of radiology at Washington University&#8217;s Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology says that &#8220;This is something that would be easy to incorporate into a screening test in a neurology clinic. We validated it in people with Alzheimer&#8217;s because we know their brains undergo lots of neurodegeneration, but this marker isn&#8217;t specific for Alzheimer&#8217;s. High levels could be a sign of many different neurological diseases and injuries.&#8221;
Researchers hope future studies will reveal how much <a href="https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-01/wuso-btd011719.php" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-01/wuso-btd011719.php">neurofilament light chain present indicates Alzheimer’s</a>. While a commercial test similar to the one used by study authors is available, it has not been approved by the FDA to diagnose or predict an individual’s risk of Alzheimer’s.
<blockquote>&#8220;I could see this being used in the clinic in a few years to identify signs of brain damage in individual patients,&#8221; Dr. Gordon states. “We’re not at the point we can tell people, &#8216;In five years you&#8217;ll have dementia.&#8217; We are all working towards that.&#8221;</blockquote>
Do you think a simple blood test will be able to predict Alzheimer&#8217;s in the next decade? Why or why not? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">Better Alzheimer’s Prevention With Early Detection</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/blood-test-for-alzheimers/">Blood Test Could Help Identify Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/moving-closer-to-a-blood-test-for-dementia/">Moving Closer to a Blood Test for Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

Blood Protein Changes Could Predict Alzheimer's Years Before Symptoms

As researchers press for a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, many are focusing on early detection and prevention. Early detection of Alzheimer’s can not only mitigate symptoms but potentially slow the progression of the disease as well. It can also help families prepare for a future with Alzheimer’s, outlining future caregiving plans. One new study utilizes a […]

The effort to find effective treatments for dementia has been called “one of the most intractable problems in medicine,” according to the New York Times. One reason progress is so difficult is that the body’s blood-brain barrier, which keeps foreign substances, including medications and immunotherapies, from fully reaching the brain.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-New-Ultrasound-Therapy-Treat-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Could a New Ultrasound Therapy Treat Dementia?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68229" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-New-Ultrasound-Therapy-Treat-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-New-Ultrasound-Therapy-Treat-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Could-a-New-Ultrasound-Therapy-Treat-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Since 2015, a group of researchers at Australia’s University of Queensland has been working with ultrasound to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier so antibody treatments can get in and harmful dementia-related proteins can be cleared out. Now, they’re planning a phase one clinical safety trial in humans later this year. Read more about ultrasound therapy and how it can be used to treat dementia.
<h2>An Ultrasound Therapy for Dementia</h2>
Alzheimer’s disease and some other dementias are marked by protein plaques and tangles in the brain. Immunotherapy treatments have been studied for years as a potential way to break down and remove those proteins. The problem is that so few of those antibodies make it through the blood-brain barrier. With better access to the brain, researchers think, immunotherapy could reduce symptoms and improve memory in Alzheimer’s patients. <a href="https://qbi.uq.edu.au/article/2018/12/new-funding-progresses-clinical-trial-dementia-treatment">Ultrasound on its own may be effective</a>, too.
Professor Jürgen Götz heads the <a href="https://qbi.uq.edu.au/CJCADR">Clem Jones Centre for Ageing Dementia Research</a> at the Queensland Brain Institute and his team has been testing the effects of injecting patients with microbubbles and then using ultrasound on the brain to briefly open the blood-brain barrier. In an email, Götz describes how the combination of microbubbles and ultrasound therapy works.
<blockquote>“Ultrasound causes intravenously injected microbubbles (contrast agents) to oscillate, thereby exerting a subtle pressure on the walls of blood vessels such that they transiently open the tight junctions.”</blockquote>
This opening allows injected immunotherapy agents to enter the brain and activate certain brain cells that take in and digest harmful proteins.
Their research has also found that ultrasound on its own can kickstart the brain to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">clear out some of plaques and tangles</a>, but that ultrasound plus immunotherapy is more effective than either alone.
<h2>Cautious Progress for Possible Dementia Treatment</h2>
Götz and his researchers studied ultrasound therapy in mice and observed an improvement in memory function and a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">reversal of dementia symptoms</a> in the mice after treatment. Because brains become more fragile with age, the team made a point of testing the treatment on older mice who were the equivalent of 80-90 in human years. In early 2018, they reported that the ultrasound procedure did not cause damage or increase bleeding in geriatric mice.
The scientists have also tested the process for safety on larger brains, in sheep. Now, they’re planning to conduct a small clinical trial later this year to evaluate the safety of the ultrasound treatment in humans.
<blockquote>If that trial shows that the ultrasound therapy is safe, they can move forward with trials to see if the treatment is effective for humans.</blockquote>
It’s too early to know whether this approach will prove safe in humans, but if it does, it could eventually make ultrasound a viable tool for removing plaques and tangles in people with dementia, with or without the addition of immunotherapy agents.
Götz says of the treatment, “The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-personalizing-alzheimers-treatment/">treatment is designed as a potential therapy for dementia</a> and targets the toxic protein build-ups that are a hallmark of this condition. Vascular dementia, which doesn’t involve toxic protein build-ups, has a different pathology and will thus require different treatment strategies.”
<h2>What Happens Next?</h2>
Earlier this year, the Australian government granted $10 million in new funding to Götz’s project. Phase one of the clinical trial later this year will include about 10 subjects. If this phase shows that it is safe, researchers will conduct two more phases of the trial to investigate the effectiveness of the ultrasound therapy.
Australia isn’t the only country where ultrasound treatments for dementia are under study, however. In 2018, scientists in Toronto reported the results of their phase one <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-018-04529-6">safety trial to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier</a> and researchers at West Virginia University performed a phase two <a href="https://wvumedicine.org/news/article/west-virginia-university-rockefeller-neuroscience-institute-pioneers-promising-new-alzheimer-s-thera/">ultrasound trial on a woman with Alzheimer’s</a>. She was able to return home the day after her treatment.
<blockquote>It’s too soon to know if treatments for people with dementia might come out of this research, but for an intractable problem like this, finding a way to safely open the blood-brain barrier could be the first step toward a solution.</blockquote>
Do you have a parent or senior loved one with dementia? Would your loved one be willing to use ultrasound therapy for dementia treatment? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">Dementia: Stages, Symptoms and Treatment Options for the Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/scientists-personalizing-alzheimers-treatment/">How Scientists Are Personalizing Alzheimer’s Treatment</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Could a New Ultrasound Therapy Treat Dementia?

The effort to find effective treatments for dementia has been called “one of the most intractable problems in medicine,” according to the New York Times. One reason progress is so difficult is that the body’s blood-brain barrier, which keeps foreign substances, including medications and immunotherapies, from fully reaching the brain. Since 2015, a group of researchers […]

There are approximately 50 million people living with dementia worldwide. There is no cure or treatment for the disease, but early diagnosis can help mitigate symptoms, expand options and allow for financial and legal planning. Many researchers are focusing their efforts on early diagnosis and prevention. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-a-Neck-Scan-Could-Identify-Dementia-Before-Symptoms-Occur-300x158.jpg" alt="How a Neck Scan Could Identify Dementia Before Symptoms Occur" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68296" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-a-Neck-Scan-Could-Identify-Dementia-Before-Symptoms-Occur-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-a-Neck-Scan-Could-Identify-Dementia-Before-Symptoms-Occur-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-a-Neck-Scan-Could-Identify-Dementia-Before-Symptoms-Occur.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
A recent study has found that an ultrasound of the neck may be able to predict a person’s risk of dementia <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">nearly a decade before symptoms occur</a>. Learn more about the study and why researchers believe this non-invasive neck scan may identify those at a higher risk of the disease.
<h2>How a Neck Ultrasound Could Identify Dementia</h2>
A study from the University College London (UCL), recently presented at the American Heart Association’s annual scientific conference, found that an ultrasound of the neck could <a href="https://www.thisisinsider.com/neck-test-dementia-risk-2018-11" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">identify dementia before symptoms occur</a>. The study included 3,191 participants between the ages of 58-74. All participants had a scan of their neck in 2002 and then had cognitive functions monitored for 14 years.
<blockquote>The scans detected and monitored a pulse, which showed that intense pulses could cause damage to small vessels in the brain, leading to minor bleeding – or, mini-strokes. These mini-strokes can build up over time and lead to dementia symptoms.</blockquote>
The study found that people who had more intense pulses were up to 50% more likely to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-27-15-detecting-alzheimers-decades-early/">experience reduced cognitive functions</a> than other participants. The study did not go on to evaluate which participants went on to develop dementia.
<h2>Lifestyle Changes Seniors Can Make to Reduce Their Dementia Risk</h2>
Researchers are hopeful that by identifying people who have a <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2018/11/12/health/dementia-blood-vessels-study-scli-intl/index.html" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://edition.cnn.com/2018/11/12/health/dementia-blood-vessels-study-scli-intl/index.html" rel="noopener noreferrer">higher risk for dementia</a> early on, lifestyle changes can be made that can help lower that risk. People can then actively control their blood pressure and cholesterol, eat healthy, exercise and choose to not smoke. &#8220;Dementia is not an inevitable cause of aging,&#8221; says Scott Chiesa, a post-doctoral researcher at UCL.&#8221;How you live your life has a real impact on how quickly your condition can decline.&#8221;
This study provides more evidence of a brain and heart-health relationship. Carol Routledge, Director of Research at Alzheimer&#8217;s Research UK, notes, “What we do know is that the blood supply in the brain is incredibly important and that maintaining healthy blood pressure and a healthy heart is associated with <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-04-16-area-of-brain-where-alzheimers-begins/">a lower risk of developing dementia.</a>”
She continues, saying, “While these findings are interesting, as the full data from this research is yet to be published it is difficult to assess how useful this kind of scan could be.”
Have you, a parent or senior loved one been diagnosed with dementia? How did you identify dementia in yourself or a loved one? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">Better Alzheimer’s Prevention With Early Detection</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-27-15-detecting-alzheimers-decades-early/">Detecting Alzheimer’s Decades Early</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-04-16-area-of-brain-where-alzheimers-begins/">Scientists Identify Area of Brain Where Alzheimer’s Begins</a></li>
</ul>

How a Neck Scan Could Identify Dementia Before Symptoms Occur

There are approximately 50 million people living with dementia worldwide. There is no cure or treatment for the disease, but early diagnosis can help mitigate symptoms, expand options and allow for financial and legal planning. Many researchers are focusing their efforts on early diagnosis and prevention. A recent study has found that an ultrasound of […]

Last Updated: March 29, 2019
With the Alzheimer’s epidemic on the rise, researchers are focusing their efforts on early detection and prevention to mitigate symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Detecting-Alzheimers-Decades-Early-300x158.jpg" alt="Detecting Alzheimer&#039;s Decades Early" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68235" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Detecting-Alzheimers-Decades-Early-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Detecting-Alzheimers-Decades-Early-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Detecting-Alzheimers-Decades-Early.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">why detecting Alzheimer&#8217;s early is important</a> and about the technologies that are changing the future of disease research.
<h2>Detecting Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
According to the <a href="http://www.alz.org/mnnd/documents/10signs_PhysicanFactSheet_final.pdf" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.alz.org/mnnd/documents/10signs_PhysicanFactSheet_final.pdf">Alzheimer’s Association</a>, early detection of cognitive impairment offers a wide range of benefits for people with the disease, their caregivers, families and their team of doctors.
Benefits include:
<ul>
<li>A better, clearer report of symptoms</li>
<li>A greater ability to participate in clinical trials that fight Alzheimer’s</li>
<li>More choice of medications that can improve symptoms</li>
<li>More time for family and loved ones to understand the disease and plan the future</li>
<li>More time to plan for the future and understand care options</li>
</ul>
Many people shy away from <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/better-alzheimers-prevention-with-early-detection/">an early diagnosis</a> because Alzheimer’s is not treatable. While understandable, early detection can help mitigate feelings of guilt and stress and allow families time to process the diagnosis and plan.
<h2>Emerging Alzheimer’s Technology</h2>
Now, due to developing technology, Alzheimer’s is being diagnosed earlier than ever.
Faculty chair and physician-scientist for the Medicine and Exponential Medicine program at Singularity University, <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/daniel_kraft_medicine_s_future?language=en" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.ted.com/talks/daniel_kraft_medicine_s_future?language=en">Dr. Daniel Kraft</a>, presented on early-detection technology at the <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/08/technology/future-doctors-office/" data-cke-saved-href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/08/technology/future-doctors-office/">Exponential Finance conference</a> in New York City, calling for new tools to keep up with what he called an “avalanche of data.” He touched on a number of new technologies including new blood tests, brain scans and eye tests.
<h3>1. Blood tests.</h3>
Advances in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-3-14-blood-test-detects-alzheimers-early" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-3-14-blood-test-detects-alzheimers-early">blood-based biomarkers</a> have made it possible to predict Alzheimer’s before it begins, using a simple blood test. One promising test may be able to predict Alzheimer’s with 100% accuracy a full decade before symptoms occur. A recent study involving an international team of researchers tested for changes in levels of the neurofilament light chain (NfL) protein. This type of protein in the blood is a strong sign that brain damage has occurred because it normally lives inside neurons but when they become damaged or die, they break into the surrounding cerebrospinal fluid and then travel into the bloodstream. A <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324244.php" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324244.php">blood test</a> would reveal the presence of this protein and could suggest early stages of the disease.
<h3>2. Brain scans.</h3>
New brain scans are enabling doctors to see inside the brains of people at high risk for Alzheimer’s before clinical symptoms develop.  One <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-7-15-non-invasive-method-detect-alzheimers" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-7-15-non-invasive-method-detect-alzheimers">type of scan uses MRI technology</a> to find beta-amyloid, thought to cause Alzheimer’s. This scan has been shown to detect Alzheimer’s with 90% accuracy before symptoms occur.
<h3>3. Eye tests.</h3>
Another way researchers are examining early Alzheimer’s detection is through the size of blood vessels in the eye. <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/08/technology/future-doctors-office/" data-cke-saved-href="http://money.cnn.com/2015/06/08/technology/future-doctors-office/">Researchers at Duke University found that the different sizes of blood vessels</a> in the eye may actually predict Alzheimer&#8217;s before symptoms, allowing people with the disease to receive care before irreversible brain damage occurs. Two more recent studies also found that the small blood vessels in the retina at the back of the eye are altered for people with Alzheimer’s and have a non-invasive imaging device to detect these changes. The imaging, called <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181029102831.htm" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/10/181029102831.htm">optical coherence tomography angiography</a> (OCTA), can detect these changes before symptoms occur and can even suggest what stage of dementia that person is in.
<h2>Genetic Testing for Alzheimer’s</h2>
Another way researchers are <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">using technology to identify those at risk for Alzheimer’s</a> is through genetic testing. Researchers have identified genes that increase the risk of an individual developing Alzheimer’s. The strongest risk gene for Alzheimer&#8217;s is APOE-e4. There is a blood test for this gene and it is usually used in clinical trials to identify participants who are at a higher risk for the disease. Carrying the APOE-e4 gene does not mean someone has Alzheimer’s. It does, however, mean they are at a higher risk for eventually developing the disease.
Genetic testing is also available for deterministic genes that cause “familial Alzheimer’s,” a rare form of the disease that can begin as early as age 30 and accounts for less than 1% of all dementia cases.
Genetic testing is controversial and should only be conducted with the oversight of a trusted genetic counselor or medical professional.
What do you think about the latest technology for detecting Alzheimer’s? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-prevention-tools/">Alzheimer’s Prevention Tools</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-08/prevention-with-early-detection/">Better Alzheimer&#8217;s Prevention With Early Detection</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Detecting Alzheimer's Decades Early

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 With the Alzheimer’s epidemic on the rise, researchers are focusing their efforts on early detection and prevention to mitigate symptoms and potentially slow the progression of the disease. Learn more about why detecting Alzheimer’s early is important and about the technologies that are changing the future of disease research. Detecting […]

As researchers learn more about the pathology of dementia, they are looking more into which factors result in the disease and its symptoms. A recent study published in <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(18)30371-5/fulltext" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422(18)30371-5/fulltext">The Lancet Neurology</a> journal found a correlation between high levels of frailty and dementia-related changes in the brain.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Frailty-Found-to-Be-a-Risk-Factor-for-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Frailty Found to Be a Risk Factor for Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68240" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Frailty-Found-to-Be-a-Risk-Factor-for-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Frailty-Found-to-Be-a-Risk-Factor-for-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Frailty-Found-to-Be-a-Risk-Factor-for-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about frailty as a risk factor for dementia and its impact on dementia research.
<h2>Frailty: A Risk Factor for Dementia</h2>
A new study involving more than 450 adults ages 59 and older in Illinois found that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">frailty may increase the risk of dementia</a>. Study participants did not have the disease upon their enrollment and participated in annual mental and physical health assessments. Additionally, participants agreed to have their brains examined after death for brain plaques and tangles. By their last assessment, 53% of the study participants were diagnosed with possible or probable dementia.
For the study, researchers created a &#8220;frailty index&#8221; that included 41 factors, like:
<ul>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Heart problems</li>
<li>Joint problems</li>
<li>Mobility</li>
<li>Osteoporosis</li>
<li>The ability to prepare meals</li>
</ul>
Researchers found that those with higher levels of frailty were more likely to have both <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">dementia-related brain changes and symptoms of the disease</a>, while others demonstrated substantial brain changes. Participants who were not frail (scoring lower on the ‘frailty’ index) had significantly fewer symptoms of the disease.
Researchers accounted for age, gender, educational levels and other risk factors, concluding that there is a correlation between frailty and dementia. The study did not establish a causal relationship and researchers stopped short of claiming that frailty can cause symptoms of dementia.
Dr. Kenneth Rockwood, leader of the study and professor at Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada, summed up the study, saying:
<blockquote>“By reducing an <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-occupational-therapy-helps-with-alzheimers/">individual’s physiological reserve</a>, frailty could trigger the clinical expression of dementia when it might remain asymptomatic in someone who is not frail. This indicates that a ‘frail’ brain might be more susceptible to neurological problems like dementia as it is less able to cope with the pathological burden.”</blockquote>
Researchers are hopeful that future studies will examine the relationships between biomarkers, cognition and frailty that are linked to dementia.
Have you seen a correlation between frailty and dementia in a parent? Is there another risk factor that you are concerned about in a senior loved one? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">Adjusting to the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/habilitation-therapy-for-alzheimers/">Habilitation Therapy for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-occupational-therapy-helps-with-alzheimers/">How Occupational Therapy Helps With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Frailty Found to Be a Risk Factor for Dementia

As researchers learn more about the pathology of dementia, they are looking more into which factors result in the disease and its symptoms. A recent study published in The Lancet Neurology journal found a correlation between high levels of frailty and dementia-related changes in the brain. Learn more about frailty as a risk factor for […]

Last Updated: March 22, 2019
As Alzheimer&#8217;s disease progresses, the care needs of our parents and senior loved ones will change. Creating an Alzheimer&#8217;s care plan soon after diagnosis will help ensure that care requests from your loved one are still considered and incorporated into their life. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Alzheimers-Care-Options-for-Senior-Loved-Ones-300x158.jpg" alt="6 Alzheimer&#039;s Care Options for Senior Loved Ones" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67986" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Alzheimers-Care-Options-for-Senior-Loved-Ones-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Alzheimers-Care-Options-for-Senior-Loved-Ones-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Alzheimers-Care-Options-for-Senior-Loved-Ones.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Eventually, Alzheimer&#8217;s will require round-the-clock care for your senior loved one, so it&#8217;s important to plan for their care and well-being soon after diagnosis. Learn more about Alzheimer&#8217;s care options and which one is the best fit for your loved one.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Care Options</h2>
Different factors will determine which Alzheimer&#8217;s care options your family pursues.
In the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">early stages of the disease</a>, families often choose home care so that their loved one can remain in familiar surroundings and enjoy as much independence as possible. As the disease progresses, however, residential care may be necessary to provide your loved one with the total care he or she will need.
Here are six Alzheimer&#8217;s care options to consider:
<h3>1. Adult day centers.</h3>
A safe environment for your loved one, adult day centers offer structured activities and programs, such as art or <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-06-04/music-therapy-for-dementia/">music therapy and a means for your loved one to socialize</a>. Many adult day centers also provide meals and transportation.
<h3>2. Assisted living.</h3>
For individuals who require assistance with tasks such as dressing or preparing meals but do not need skilled medical care yet, assisted living might deliver the right amount of support. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/program-connects-alzheimers-experts-with-assisted-living/">In these communities</a>, residents can have their own apartment or suite or share a residence to help reduce costs. Along with 24-hour staff, typical assisted living services include dining, housekeeping, laundry, recreational activities and transportation.
<h3>3. Home care.</h3>
At home, your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s will benefit from well-known sights and sounds but a few changes will be needed to make the home easy-to-navigate and safe. The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association recommends looking at the home &#8220;through the eyes of a person with dementia,&#8221; without creating too restrictive a setting. Here are just a few <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">recommended home safety tips</a>:
<ul>
<li>Keep stairways well-lit</li>
<li>Lock hazardous areas, such as stairwells, storage areas and workrooms</li>
<li>Lock medications in a cabinet or drawer</li>
<li>Make sure carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors work</li>
<li>Remove objects that could cause injury</li>
<li>Set the water temperature to 120 degrees or less to prevent scalding</li>
</ul>
<h3>4. Home care services.</h3>
Depending on the agency, in-home care services will provide companion services, home health aides and skilled nursing care or even help with household chores. In turn, caregivers have time to enjoy outings, run personal errands, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-05-08/best-alzheimers-support-groups/">participate in support groups</a> or simply relax.
<h3>5. Memory care.</h3>
Special <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-24/questions-to-ask-about-memory-care/">memory care units</a> within senior living communities are designed for people with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia. Generally, these units group residents together on their own floor or wing of a larger care residence. Memory care staff have received specialized training in care needs for people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and programming caters to the needs of people with memory problems and includes safety measures like secured exits.
<h3>6. Nursing home.</h3>
When your loved one reaches a point of needing skilled nursing care, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/guide-to-finding-the-right-memory-care-community/">you might consider a nursing home</a>. These facilities offer room and board, plus round-the-clock medical care and supervision. They will also work with you regarding care planning, special nutrition issues and other concerns.
<h2>Which Alzheimer&#8217;s Care Option Is Best for Your Loved One?</h2>
The disease stage and your loved one&#8217;s specific care needs will determine what type of Alzheimer&#8217;s care you choose.
<blockquote>Each setting is different but talking with your loved one in the early stages of the disease to get input from family members will allow you to draft a plan. Finances, location and other issues specific to your loved one&#8217;s health should all be part of the conversation.</blockquote>
If you need help searching for memory care for a loved one, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">browse through Alzheimers.net&#8217;s memory care communities</a> and speak with an Advisor who can answer your questions about which communities best meet your family&#8217;s needs.
What Alzheimer&#8217;s care options did you choose for your loved one with the disease? We&#8217;d like to hear your story in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer&#8217;s Evolves from Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-27/alzheimers-care-manager/">How to Find an Alzheimer’s Care Manager</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-24/questions-to-ask-about-memory-care/">Questions to Ask When Exploring Memory Care Options</a></li>
</ul>

6 Alzheimer's Care Options for Senior Loved Ones

Last Updated: March 22, 2019 As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the care needs of our parents and senior loved ones will change. Creating an Alzheimer’s care plan soon after diagnosis will help ensure that care requests from your loved one are still considered and incorporated into their life. Eventually, Alzheimer’s will require round-the-clock care for your […]

Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers know all too well how difficult it can be to care for a loved one with the disease. One caregiver duty that becomes increasingly important as the disease progresses, is how to provide the utmost safety at home. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Home-Safety-Tips-From-the-Mayo-Clinic-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer’s Home Safety Tips From the Mayo Clinic" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68041" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Home-Safety-Tips-From-the-Mayo-Clinic-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Home-Safety-Tips-From-the-Mayo-Clinic-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Home-Safety-Tips-From-the-Mayo-Clinic.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
As the disease takes hold, our parents and senior loved ones can fall victim to various accidents like falls in the home, wandering and more. Read these top five home safety tips from the Mayo Clinic about how to help keep your loved one safe during this time.
<h2>5 Alzheimer&#8217;s Home Safety Tips</h2>
How can you <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">keep your senior loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s safe at home</a>?
Use these five home safety tips from the <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/caregivers/in-depth/home-safety-tips/art-20046785%207">Mayo Clinic</a>:
<h3>1. Check each room in the home for potential hazards.</h3>
Taking a systematic approach by looking through every room for potential safety issues, is an important step in providing home safety for loved ones.
Here are some common issues to address, room by room:
Bathroom
The bathroom is the most common place in the house where falls occur. Tips to prevent falls include:
<ul>
<li>Ensure child-resistant caps are on all medication containers</li>
<li>Evaluate the bathroom for surfaces that may be slippery when wet (apply adhesive nonskid strips and rubber bath mats in those areas)</li>
<li>Install grab bars in the bath/shower and near the toilet</li>
<li>Place a foam rubber faucet cover over the bathtub faucet to prevent serious injuries from falling forward in the tub</li>
<li>Use a handheld shower and a shower chair</li>
</ul>
Bedroom
In the bedroom, safety precautions will depend largely on the stage of Alzheimer&#8217;s and behavioral issues that your loved one is exhibiting. Here are some examples of safety precautions to consider in the bedroom:
<ul>
<li>Avoid using electric blankets or heating pads in the bedroom</li>
<li>Be sure to assist your loved one in going to the bathroom, getting a drink and getting a nighttime snack before bed</li>
<li>Consider a bed alarm that will go off if your loved one gets up alone</li>
<li>Keep a monitoring device (such as a baby monitor) in your loved one’s bedroom to enable you to hear when he or she needs help</li>
</ul>
Garage and/or shed
Although a person with Alzheimer&#8217;s should never be left alone, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/helping-a-loved-one-with-dementia-who-wanders/">wandering throughout the home can happen</a> when a caregiver is temporarily unavailable. Here are some safety tips for these areas of the house:
<ul>
<li>Keep automobiles locked when in the garage or outside</li>
<li>Keep the doors locked to the garage and shed, if possible</li>
<li>Lock up potentially hazardous items such as antifreeze, gasoline, machines, sharp tools, etc.</li>
<li>Remove any bikes, motorcycles or vehicles that are not being used</li>
<li>Remove any weapons from the home</li>
</ul>
Kitchen
The kitchen provides an environment for many potential accidents, including burns, cuts and more. Here are some tips for safety proofing the kitchen:
<ul>
<li>Disconnect the garbage disposal</li>
<li>Install safety knobs on the stove</li>
<li>Keep alcohol, sharp objects and plastic bags locked up</li>
<li>Lock up dangerous chemicals or objects by installing childproof latches on all drawers</li>
<li>Refrain from putting out artificial fruit or other objects shaped like food, such as magnets</li>
</ul>
Laundry room
Laundry room safety tips include:
<ul>
<li>Close and latch the lids to the dryer and washer to prevent access</li>
<li>Keep the door to the laundry room locked if possible</li>
<li>Lock up potentially hazardous products such as cleaning products, detergents and other items</li>
<li>If needed, remove the knobs to prevent tampering with laundry appliances</li>
<li>Install childproof latches</li>
</ul>
Living room
Tips for safety in the living room include:
<ul>
<li>Avoid clutter and keep areas where people walk free of tripping hazards</li>
<li>Be cautious when burning wood in fireplaces or wood-burning stoves</li>
<li>Keep decorative items to a minimum</li>
<li>Get rid of any plants that could be poisonous if eaten</li>
<li>Use window decals to mark glass doors and windows to prevent incidents</li>
</ul>
Outdoors
Here are some safety measures for the outdoor areas of the home:
<ul>
<li>Adapt home entrances for wheelchair accessibility if needed</li>
<li>Apply slip-proof edging to outside stairs and areas that become slippery when wet</li>
<li>If there is a pool, cover it and install a gate with a lock</li>
<li>Keep walkways clear of clutter</li>
<li>Use bright colored tape to mark the edges of stairs</li>
</ul>
<h3>2. Employ fall prevention measures.</h3>
Falling is a common cause of injury in senior loved ones, particularly those afflicted with Alzheimer&#8217;s. Here are some general fall prevention tips:
<ul>
<li>Be sure to have handrails and have the handrails extend beyond the first and last steps</li>
<li>Cover stairs that aren’t carpeted with nonskid strips to prevent slipping</li>
<li>Install safety gates in front of stairs for those who have trouble with balance, or who have a high risk of falls</li>
<li>Keep stairs clear of clutter, and install light switches at the top and bottom of stairs</li>
<li>Use night lights in your loved one&#8217;s bedroom, on the way to the bathroom and inside the bathroom, to prevent accidental falls at night</li>
</ul>
<h3>3. Evaluate home safety needs.</h3>
Not everyone has the same safety needs, depending on the stage of the illness and the individual being considered. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-07-16-ways-to-keep-a-loved-one-who-wanders-safe/">Consider your loved one’s abilities, behaviors and health needs</a> and ask yourself the following questions:
<ul>
<li>Can my loved one safely go down and up the stairs?</li>
<li>Does he or she have a history of falls?</li>
<li>Does he or she wander?</li>
<li>What behaviors might make your loved one vulnerable to accidents or falls?</li>
</ul>
<h3>4. Prepare for emergencies.</h3>
Not all accidents and injuries can be avoided, even when taking the utmost care in safety proofing a home. Here are some tips on being prepared for emergencies:
<ul>
<li>Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly</li>
<li>Keep a first aid kit handy</li>
<li>Keep emergency phone numbers handy (including numbers for doctors, poison control and more)</li>
<li>Keep ipecac syrup on hand, in case poison control instructs on its use</li>
<li>Take CPR classes, to learn what to do if a loved one accidentally chokes or needs immediate emergency care.</li>
</ul>
<h3>5. Take miscellaneous safety measures.</h3>
<ul>
<li>Cover unused electrical outlets with childproof plugs</li>
<li>If your loved one has access to a computer, monitor use to prevent them from falling prey to internet fraud</li>
<li>Keep a spare key outside the house</li>
<li>Make sure doors and windows are kept locked to prevent wandering</li>
</ul>
Home safety needs to be a top priority for caregivers. Remember that the needs of a loved one with Alzheimer’s are always changing, so home safety will need to be reevaluated and updated to continue providing a safe home to a loved one with the disease.
What other home safety tips would you add to this list? We&#8217;d like to hear your suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">Home Safety Checklist for Alzheimer’s and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/helping-a-loved-one-with-dementia-who-wanders/">Helping a Loved One With Dementia Who Wanders</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-07-16-ways-to-keep-a-loved-one-who-wanders-safe/">5 Ways to Keep a Loved One Who Wanders Safe</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer’s Home Safety Tips From the Mayo Clinic

Alzheimer’s caregivers know all too well how difficult it can be to care for a loved one with the disease. One caregiver duty that becomes increasingly important as the disease progresses, is how to provide the utmost safety at home. As the disease takes hold, our parents and senior loved ones can fall victim to various […]

Last Updated: March 18, 2019
Alzheimer&#8217;s disease care managers take a holistic approach to maximizing outcomes for patients, ensuring that all aspects of an individual&#8217;s family, health care, physical and social needs are met.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68354" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-an-Alzheimers-Care-Manager-300x158.jpg" alt="How to Find an Alzheimer's Care Manager" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-an-Alzheimers-Care-Manager-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-an-Alzheimers-Care-Manager-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-an-Alzheimers-Care-Manager.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about how an Alzheimer&#8217;s care manager can benefit your family and how to find one for your parent or senior loved one with the disease.
<h2>How an Alzheimer&#8217;s Care Manager Can Help Your Family</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s care managers coordinate the many facets of disease care, including drug interventions as well as nonpharmacologic therapies, like a safe environment, social engagement and other issues that go beyond daily medication.
As the <a href="https://www.alz.org/health-care-professionals/medical-management-patient-care.asp#medical_management" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a> describes, care managers have these chief goals:
<ul>
<li>Enhance behavior, cognition and mood</li>
<li>Foster a safe environment</li>
<li>Maximize the individual&#8217;s function in daily activities</li>
<li>Promote social opportunities</li>
</ul>
Combined, these goals <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-07/validation-method-for-alzheimers/">help ensure that the person with Alzheimer&#8217;s maintains a quality of life</a> and that caregivers and families receive the support they need to make decisions about their loved one&#8217;s care.
<blockquote>Whether it is at home or in long-term care, Alzheimer&#8217;s care managers guide families through complex issues.</blockquote>
Among their many duties, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-the-effectiveness-of-supportive-care-approaches-for-dementia/">care managers may do some or all of the following</a>, depending on the situation:
<ol>
<li>Arrange care services tailored to the unique needs of your parent or senior loved one.</li>
<li>Conduct a thorough assessment of your parent, looking for issues relevant to his or her situation, such as finances, health history, insurance, memory, nutrition and safety.</li>
<li>Create a care plan that incorporates the assessment and recommends local community options.</li>
<li>Monitor your loved one on a regular basis, ensuring that any health changes receive the accommodations and attention they require.</li>
</ol>
<h2>Professional Standards for Care Managers</h2>
Care managers work in assisted living communities, hospice agencies, hospitals, nursing homes, retirement communities and other facilities that focus on senior care. They also help at-home caregivers and family members.
<a href="https://www.aginglifecare.org/">Aging Life Care Association</a> has set standards in education, experience and training to become certified as a geriatric care manager. Additionally, the <a href="http://www.nccdp.org/cdcm/standards.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP)</a> offers specialized certification in Alzheimer&#8217;s care.
To achieve NCCDP certification, candidates must meet all local, state and federal regulations, as well as these requirements:
<ul>
<li>Hold a bachelor&#8217;s degree in a health care field or they must be an LPN (licensed practical nurse) or RN (registered nursing license)</li>
<li>Have completed a comprehensive Alzheimer&#8217;s and dementia education program, as well as other NCCDP-approved training courses</li>
<li>Have one year of experience in a health care management role</li>
<li>Have three years of health care experience working directly with geriatric patients</li>
</ul>
<h2>Questions to Ask When Looking for an Alzheimer&#8217;s Care Manager</h2>
When you are <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-24/questions-to-ask-about-memory-care/">looking for an Alzheimer&#8217;s care manager</a>, remember that not all of them specialize in the same thing, which is why it is important to learn about a care manager&#8217;s particular background and experience.
Some questions to ask when interviewing care managers to determine the right fit include:
<ol>
<li>Are you available for emergencies?</li>
<li>Are you licensed?</li>
<li>Can you provide references?</li>
<li>Do you provide home care services (if applicable)?</li>
<li>Do you specialize in Alzheimer&#8217;s care management? In what other areas of geriatric care do you specialize?</li>
<li>How long have you been providing Alzheimer&#8217;s care management services?</li>
<li>How will you communicate information to me (phone, in writing or other)?</li>
<li>What are your fees? (Remember to get this in writing.)</li>
<li>What are your professional credentials?</li>
</ol>
If you are looking for an Alzheimer&#8217;s care manager, you can also contact <a href="http://www.alzheimers.net/">Alzheimers.net</a> to ask questions or get more information on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">memory care</a>.
Have you worked with an Alzheimer&#8217;s care manager? How did he or she help? What advice would you offer someone searching for an Alzheimer&#8217;s care manager? We&#8217;d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-07/validation-method-for-alzheimers/">Empathy for Alzheimer’s: The Validation Method</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-the-effectiveness-of-supportive-care-approaches-for-dementia/">Study Shows the Effectiveness of Supportive Care Approaches for Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-24/questions-to-ask-about-memory-care/">Questions to Ask When Exploring Memory Care Options</a></li>
</ul>

How to Find an Alzheimer's Care Manager

Last Updated: March 18, 2019 Alzheimer’s disease care managers take a holistic approach to maximizing outcomes for patients, ensuring that all aspects of an individual’s family, health care, physical and social needs are met. Learn more about how an Alzheimer’s care manager can benefit your family and how to find one for your parent or […]

As a caregiver, having siblings help care for a parent or senior loved one can be an enormous source of support, but can also create conflict at times. While caregiving, emotions can run high, causing discord between caregiver siblings and families. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Things-That-Caregiver-Siblings-Should-Consider-When-Caring-for-a-Loved-One-With-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-300x158.jpg" alt="6 Things That Caregiver Siblings Should Consider When Caring for a Loved One With Alzheimer’s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67991" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Things-That-Caregiver-Siblings-Should-Consider-When-Caring-for-a-Loved-One-With-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Things-That-Caregiver-Siblings-Should-Consider-When-Caring-for-a-Loved-One-With-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Things-That-Caregiver-Siblings-Should-Consider-When-Caring-for-a-Loved-One-With-Alzheimer%E2%80%99s.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Fortunately, there are ways to resolve this friction. Read our list of six things for caregiver siblings to consider while caring for a loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>6 Things for Caregiver Siblings to Consider When Caring for a Loved One</h2>
There are six simple guidelines that can help caregiver siblings when caring for a parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer’s.
<h3>1. Consider conflicting ideas about a parent&#8217;s needs.</h3>
It’s very common for caregiver siblings to have different ideas about the needs of their loved one. Some siblings get overly enthusiastic about jumping in to take over all the decisions when the parents are still able to be independent. Others hesitate to jump in, giving the parent too much control in matters that a person with Alzheimer&#8217;s is not able to handle. This is oftentimes due to not being able to accept the impact of the debilitating disease.
Solution: If there are no urgent matters at hand that must be handled right away, the solution to this issue may be to step back to allow each sibling some time to adjust (once each person has aired his or her opinion about how care should be handled). Keep in mind that parents may be telling each sibling something different about how they are doing, therefore the lines of communication must always be kept open between siblings. Caregiver siblings could also go to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/best-alzheimers-support-groups/">a caregiver group meeting for support</a> or consult with a medical professional about the abilities and needs of their loved one.
<h3>2. Consider emotions around caregiving.</h3>
Many caregivers are caught off guard by the wide range of emotions that come with caregiving. Many of the feelings that arise are compounded by feelings from childhood. Caregiver siblings will react differently as they watch their parent become gradually more dependent.
Solution: Try to practice compassion, for yourself and your siblings. Imagine the fear, pain and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">need for support</a> that your sibling has that is parallel to your own. Understanding each other’s point of view can go a long way in helping to settle family disputes.
<h3>3. Consider family roles.</h3>
The role that each sibling played in the family can considerably impact how caregiver siblings interact when caring for a loved one. When thrown into these situations, it’s common to regress and begin taking on old family roles again. Now is the time to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">challenge these roles</a>.
Solution: It’s important to be open to face the family dynamics and evenly and fairly distribute the work that will be required during the duration of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. Try to reevaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each sibling in an unbiased manner. It may be helpful to get an outsider’s input to help break through old barriers that tend to keep people stuck in the same beliefs and judgments.
<h3>4. Consider your emotional needs.</h3>
It&#8217;s common for caregiver siblings to begin making decisions and fighting old battles, like:
<ul>
<li>Feeling critical of how other siblings are managing things</li>
<li>Feeling you are the only one who truly understands the needs of the parent with Alzheimer&#8217;s</li>
<li>Getting into an argument with a sibling over an insignificant issue</li>
<li>Using language that includes &#8220;always&#8221; or &#8220;never&#8221; statements, such as “you always take the easy way out” or “you never help with the hardest tasks”</li>
</ul>
Solution: Keep in mind that no matter what you do as a caregiver, you will never be able to make your parent happy all the time.  Siblings need to avoid blaming themselves and each other for the outcome, but rather, focus on the job that they are doing — most are doing the best they can. Supporting each other, particularly when things are not going so well, is perhaps <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2013-11-07/validation-method-for-alzheimers/">the most powerful way that siblings can positively impact</a> the caregiving experience.
<h3>5. Distribute caregiving tasks.</h3>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">Distributing tasks</a> between caregiver siblings may start out by simply deciding which family member works the least hours or which sibling is closest to a parent. Initially, many people don’t even realize what they are up against in the long run, when it comes to the many caregiving tasks required to care for a loved one with the disease.
Solution: Do your homework and make a list of all the things that need to be done, including cooking, managing the finances, housework, laundry, medical appointments and more. Next, call a family meeting and discuss who will do what. Finally, decide if there will be compensation, how respite care will be managed and who will fill in to care when the primary caregiver takes time off. Meetings should be called for on a regular basis, as caregiving needs change.
<h3>6. Keep these common traps in mind.</h3>
There are several common traps that caregiver siblings fall into, like the oldest sibling taking on the most responsibility, for example. Oftentimes, that sibling then becomes resentful, setting family members up for more friction.
Solution: Aim to let all caregiver siblings <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-the-effectiveness-of-supportive-care-approaches-for-dementia/">have input on important matters</a>, such as finances, when to hire outside help or when to move a parent into memory care or senior living. The hands-on care should either be equally divided between all siblings as much as possible. If one or more siblings find they are uncomfortable with direct care — such as bathing and dressing their parent — there are always other chores (such as cooking, shopping and transporting a loved one to medical appointments and more) that can be done to give the primary caregiver some much needed time off.
<blockquote>As caregiver siblings, dealing with family dynamics while caring for a parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging. The complexities that impact relationships between siblings may seem insurmountable, but when caregivers take the time to step back and try to understand their own emotions, it’s possible to tap into a great source of support and find some inner peace along the way.</blockquote>
Do you have caregiver siblings? What is your experience like caring for a parent with Alzheimer&#8217;s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Internet-Based Resources and Support for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">Study Identifies Biggest Alzheimer’s Caregiver Challenges</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/best-alzheimers-support-groups/">The 5 Best Emotional Support Groups for Alzheimer’s Caregivers</a></li>
</ul>

6 Things That Caregiver Siblings Should Consider When Caring for a Loved One With Alzheimer’s

As a caregiver, having siblings help care for a parent or senior loved one can be an enormous source of support, but can also create conflict at times. While caregiving, emotions can run high, causing discord between caregiver siblings and families. Fortunately, there are ways to resolve this friction. Read our list of six things for […]

Last Updated: March 13, 2019
Caring for someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease can present many challenges and take a significant toll on a caregiver&#8217;s health. Fortunately, emotional support groups can provide the assistance and reassurance you need to manage stress and take time for your own much-needed care.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Best-Emotional-Support-Groups-for-Alzheimers-Caregivers-300x158.jpg" alt="The Best Emotional Support Groups for Alzheimer&#039;s Caregivers" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68418" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Best-Emotional-Support-Groups-for-Alzheimers-Caregivers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Best-Emotional-Support-Groups-for-Alzheimers-Caregivers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Best-Emotional-Support-Groups-for-Alzheimers-Caregivers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about five emotional support groups that Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers can use for support.
<h2>Emotional Support Groups for Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">Caregivers take on tremendous responsibilities</a> that can easily overwhelm them. Ongoing anxiety, guilt and sleeplessness can lead to problems with physical health. You may eventually withdraw from friends and social activities and soon find yourself feeling alone, depressed and exhausted.
The <a href="http://www.caregiving.org/research/general-caregiving">National Alliance for Caregiving</a> indicates that more than 65 million Americans care for a chronically disabled, ill or senior family member or friend. Those caregivers provide an average of 20 hours of care per week, often while still managing a full-time job and caring for their family.
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Finding a support group</a> to share stories with, seek advice from and simply have available to listen to you on a regular basis can help lower caregiver stress and alleviate the health risks that caregivers face. Plus, support groups have information on community resources for adult day care services, Alzheimer&#8217;s education and other programs that can ease some of the workload.
Here is a list of five emotional support groups that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">give assistance and comfort to Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers</a> trying to balance their many responsibilities:
<h3>1. <a href="https://www.alz.org/care/alzheimers-dementia-support-groups.asp">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association Local Support Groups</a></h3>
Through its local support groups, the Alzheimer&#8217;s Association offers a place to exchange information, talk through challenges and learn about resources in your community. Enter your zip code or search by state to find an Alzheimer&#8217;s Association support group near you.
<h3>2. <a href="https://eldercare.acl.gov/Public/Resources/Topic/Caregiver.aspx">Eldercare Locator</a></h3>
Available through the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Eldercare Locator connects caregivers with local community resources, support groups and other services, such as counseling and training, to assist those who care for senior loved ones.
<h3>3. <a href="http://lists.caregiver.org/mailman/listinfo/caregiver-online_lists.caregiver.org">Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)</a></h3>
The FCA sponsors an unmoderated Caregiver Online Group where caregivers, families and partners can safely discuss their challenges, concerns and rewards of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h3>4. <a href="http://alzheimersspeaks.wordpress.com/2010/12/16/memory-people-new-facebook-group-for-alzheimers-patients-caregivers/">Memory People</a></h3>
A closed group, meaning only members have access, Memory People supports people interested in information about Alzheimer&#8217;s. The group&#8217;s goal is to provide comfort and a means for sharing experiences. Sign up on Facebook for access to posts or to post your own questions or comments as a caregiver.
<h3>5. <a href="https://www.caregiver.va.gov/help_landing.asp">Veteran&#8217;s Administration Caregiver Support</a></h3>
Family members caring for a veteran can call the VA Caregiver Support Line if they need someone to talk to or information about local support services for caregivers of veterans. The VA also facilitates <a href="http://www.caregiver.va.gov/connection/index.asp">Caregiver Connections</a>, an online forum for connecting with other caregivers and sharing stories.
<h2>5 Ways to Improve Caregiver Health</h2>
Taking time to talk to someone about the ups and downs of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s is important to stay happy and healthy as a caregiver.
Some other ways that you can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/preventing-dementia-through-lifestyle-choices/">improve your health</a> include:
<ul>
<li>Eating right</li>
<li>Exercising</li>
<li>Finding time for personal activities you enjoy</li>
<li>Seeking a support group</li>
<li>Socializing</li>
</ul>
Remember that staying healthy not only <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-3-17-boot-camp-dementia-caregivers/">benefits you as an Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiver</a> but your loved one too.
What has your Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiver experience been like? What other caregiver support groups do you belong to? We&#8217;d like to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">How “Caregiver Education Days” Could Help Families Address Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Internet-Based Resources and Support for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">Study Identifies Biggest Alzheimer’s Caregiver Challenges</a></li>
</ul>

The 5 Best Emotional Support Groups for Alzheimer's Caregivers

The Best Emotional Support Groups for Alzheimer's Caregivers

Last Updated: March 13, 2019 Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can present many challenges and take a significant toll on a caregiver’s health. Fortunately, emotional support groups can provide the assistance and reassurance you need to manage stress and take time for your own much-needed care. Learn more about five emotional support groups that […]

Last Updated: March 11, 2019
Developed in the 1960s and 1970s to treat Alzheimer&#8217;s disease, the Validation Method is a holistic therapy that focuses on empathy and provides a means for people with the disease to communicate. Its creator, Naomi Feil, offers workshops that teach invaluable techniques for connecting with loved ones with Alzheimer&#8217;s, enhancing their dignity and bringing them peace. <img src="https://www.alzheimers.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Empathy-for-Alzheimers-The-Validation-Method-300x158.jpg" alt="Empathy for Alzheimer&#039;s: The Validation Method" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68237" />
Learn more about using the Validation Method for Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>How the Validation Method Began</h2>
Naomi Feil, a social worker for the elderly who began her career in the 1960s, developed the Validation Method after she grew dissatisfied with common practices in dealing with seniors with Alzheimer&#8217;s. So she devised her own method and published a book on it, called &#8220;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Validation-Feil-Method-Disoriented-Old-Old/dp/1878169009" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Validation: The Feil Method</a>,&#8221; in 1982.
Another book, &#8220;<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Validation-Breakthrough-Techniques-Communicating-Alzheimers/dp/1932529934" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Validation Breakthrough</a>,&#8221; followed in 1993. In addition to workshops offered through her Validation Training Institute, Feil and her husband have produced several films and videos about aging and the therapy.
<blockquote>Validation theory emphasizes empathy and listening. It views people with Alzheimer&#8217;s as unique and worthwhile and as being in the final stages of life.</blockquote>
They&#8217;re trying to resolve unfinished business so they can die in peace. The caregiver&#8217;s job is to offer these individuals a means for expression, verbally or nonverbally.
As <a title="ALZWell Caregiver Support" href="http://www.alzwell.com/validation.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ALZWellCaregiverSuppor</a>t explains, validation is about the older person&#8217;s needs. Instead of ignoring or stopping what might be viewed as irrational or illogical behavior, validation offers alternatives. It focuses on the objective here and now and doesn&#8217;t ask why.
<h2>The Validation Method in Practice</h2>
Feil offers examples of validation in practice:
<h3>1. The caregiver.</h3>
An example poses an adult child helping a mother who&#8217;s been diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s. The mother is convinced someone is throwing away her most precious belongings, including photo albums and scrapbooks. But the mother&#8217;s actually hiding these things.
Instead of arguing with the mother, an adult child could rephrase the situation, helping his or her mother reminisce about her youth in a positive light: &#8220;Your wedding ring is gone. You think I&#8217;ve stolen it?,&#8221; &#8220;It was a beautiful ring,&#8221; &#8220;How did you and Dad meet?&#8221;
<h3>2. The physician.</h3>
In one scenario, she describes how a physician might respond to an elderly woman who&#8217;s convinced he&#8217;s her husband. She asks him to take her home.
Rather than prescribing medication to reduce anxiety and telling her she&#8217;s wrong, the Validation Method recommends that the physician match her emotions with empathic statements. These include: &#8220;You miss him,&#8221; &#8220;You were close,&#8221; &#8220;You want to be back in your house. What would you do there?&#8221;
<h2>Who Uses the Validation Method?</h2>
Caregivers, family members, home health aides, nurses, physicians and social workers, to name a few, can benefit from learning validation techniques. Although practitioners warn that it takes time to see changes in behavior, permanent positive changes can result from validation.
<blockquote>Depending on the individual, this may mean less crying, pacing or withdrawal; more nonverbal and verbal communication; and a stronger sense of self-worth.</blockquote>
Through empathy and respect, validation practitioners help people with Alzheimer&#8217;s feel listened to and supported. They can regain the dignity their disease has stolen, and ideally, feel a greater sense of peace in their final stage of life.
Do you have experience with using the Validation Method for Alzheimer&#8217;s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-6-15-behavioral-therapy-alzheimers/">Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-05-22/balance-life-as-caregiver/">How to Balance Your Life as an Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregiver</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-27-15-presence-care-dementia-caregivers/">New Approach for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
</ul>

Empathy for Alzheimer's: The Validation Method

Validation Method for Alzheimer's Patients

Last Updated: March 11, 2019 Developed in the 1960s and 1970s to treat Alzheimer’s disease, the Validation Method is a holistic therapy that focuses on empathy and provides a means for people with the disease to communicate. Its creator, Naomi Feil, offers workshops that teach invaluable techniques for connecting with loved ones with Alzheimer’s, enhancing their dignity […]

Antipsychotic drugs, also known as neuroleptics, are a type of medication often prescribed to treat people with mental health issues. These drugs are also used to treat the behavioral and psychological symptoms of people with dementia. Some medical professionals are concerned, however, about an over-diagnosis of these medications as they can increase the risk of mortality for people with the disease.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Prevent-Unnecessary-Antipsychotic-Use-in-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="How to Prevent Unnecessary Antipsychotic Use in Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68358" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Prevent-Unnecessary-Antipsychotic-Use-in-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Prevent-Unnecessary-Antipsychotic-Use-in-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Prevent-Unnecessary-Antipsychotic-Use-in-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about preventing unnecessary antipsychotic use in people with dementia.
<h2>The American Psychiatric Association (APA) Cautions Against Unnecessary Antipsychotic Use for Dementia</h2>
A recent report from the Government Accountability Office found that 33% of people with dementia in nursing homes are prescribed antipsychotic medication and that overall, 14% of people with the disease take an antipsychotic.
Antipsychotics <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-6-15-behavioral-therapy-alzheimers/">help mitigate the behavioral and psychological symptoms</a> of depression in eluding delusions and hallucinations. However, antipsychotics can be dangerous for people with dementia by increasing the risks of cardiac issues or pneumonia. Other side effects of antipsychotics include falls, hypotension, infections and strokes.
<blockquote>Aside from the <a href="https://www.pharmacytimes.com/contributor/kimberly-mckeirnan-pharmd/2019/01/preventing-unnecessary-antipsychotic-use-in-patients-with-dementia" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.pharmacytimes.com/contributor/kimberly-mckeirnan-pharmd/2019/01/preventing-unnecessary-antipsychotic-use-in-patients-with-dementia">danger of taking antipsychotics</a> to treat symptoms of dementia, studies have been inconsistent in showing the medication to be an effective treatment for improving agitation and psychosis. The APA recommends that, except for emergencies, antipsychotics should “only be used for the a of agitation or psychosis in patients with dementia when symptoms are severe&#8230; or cause significant distress to the patient.”</blockquote>
The first line of defense against these symptoms should be from behavioral therapies and environmental changes, followed by medications that are not antipsychotics. The APA understands that depression, infection and pain may be leading to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/understanding-the-challenging-behaviors-of-dementia/">symptoms that are being treated by antipsychotics</a>, not treating the real issue and just lessening the symptoms. As the use of electronic medical records increase, pharmacists will have more insight into the history of patients and be able to treat each one more effectively.
While acknowledging that antipsychotics may be necessary in case of emergencies where a person with dementia becomes dangerous to themselves or those around them, it is not recommended as a long-term therapy or solution to the negative symptoms of dementia.
Has your loved one with dementia been treated with antipsychotics? What was their antipsychotic use experience like? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">How to Deal With Aggression and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-6-15-behavioral-therapy-alzheimers/">The Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/understanding-the-challenging-behaviors-of-dementia/">The Key to Understanding the Challenging Behaviors of Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

How to Prevent Unnecessary Antipsychotic Use in Dementia

Antipsychotic drugs, also known as neuroleptics, are a type of medication often prescribed to treat people with mental health issues. These drugs are also used to treat the behavioral and psychological symptoms of people with dementia. Some medical professionals are concerned, however, about an over-diagnosis of these medications as they can increase the risk of […]

Last Updated: March 6, 2019
A new study has concluded that behavioral therapy may be more effective in treating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease than commonly prescribed antipsychotic medications.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Effects-of-Behavioral-Therapy-on-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="The Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68422" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Effects-of-Behavioral-Therapy-on-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Effects-of-Behavioral-Therapy-on-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Effects-of-Behavioral-Therapy-on-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the study, the benefits of behavioral therapy and the risks of antipsychotic medication for people with Alzheimer’s.
<h2>Antipsychotic Medication vs. Behavioral Therapy</h2>
As most Alzheimer’s caregivers know, the disease is more than just losing memory. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors/">Aggressive behaviors, agitation and anxiety</a> are a few of the symptoms that affect many people with the disease. These symptoms are most commonly treated with antipsychotic drugs. In fact, according to a recent report from the Government Accountability Office, 33% of <a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2015/03/05/390903112/for-dementia-patients-behavioral-therapy-helps-more-than-drugs" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2015/03/05/390903112/for-dementia-patients-behavioral-therapy-helps-more-than-drugs">people with Alzheimer&#8217;s in nursing homes are prescribed antipsychotic medication</a>.
A new study published in the <a href="http://www.bmj.com/content/350/bmj.h369" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.bmj.com/content/350/bmj.h369">British Medical Journal</a> challenged the widespread use of antipsychotic medication for Alzheimer&#8217;s by concluding that antipsychotics are less effective than non-drug treatments when it comes to managing symptoms of the disease.
<blockquote>Researchers observed over 20 years of studies and concluded that Alzheimer’s symptoms were best managed when caregivers were properly trained on how to communicate with and engage the person living with the disease.</blockquote>
While acknowledging that medication can be necessary for emergency situations, they found that antipsychotics were about half as effective as behavioral therapy techniques and that their use can have deadly side effects that increase over time.
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) agrees and has issued a warning cautioning that antipsychotics can increase the risk of mortality for people with Alzheimer’s.
<h2>Long-Term Use of Antipsychotics: More Common in People With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Recently, another study from the University of Eastern Finland has added to the growing body of evidence suggesting that <a href="http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/31288/20151014/alzheimers-disease-antipsychotic-treatment-more-harm-good-new-study-reveals.htm" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/31288/20151014/alzheimers-disease-antipsychotic-treatment-more-harm-good-new-study-reveals.htm">antipsychotic medication may be harmful to people with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>.
According to the Finnish Current Care Guidelines, use of antipsychotic medication for people with Alzheimer’s should be a short-term treatment option only for those with severe aggression, agitation or psychotic symptoms. Researchers found that <a href="http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-10/uoef-aif101415.php" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2015-10/uoef-aif101415.php">antipsychotic drugs were being used 2-3 years prior to an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis</a> and were most commonly prescribed six months following an official diagnosis.
<blockquote>The study&#8217;s results were published in the <a href="http://bjp.rcpsych.org/content/207/5/444" data-cke-saved-href="http://bjp.rcpsych.org/content/207/5/444">British Journal of Psychiatry</a> and concluded that 1/3 of people with Alzheimer’s were using antipsychotics, a rate five times higher than the control group, who did not have the disease. Researchers evaluated over 7,200 people with Alzheimer&#8217;s using antipsychotics and found that 57% of the participants were using the drugs long-term, for over a year.</blockquote>
The researchers also note that the risk of using antipsychotics could <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/understanding-the-challenging-behaviors-of-dementia/">do more harm than good in people with Alzheimer’s</a>.
Professor Sirpa Hartikainen cautions that “In Finland, the present incidence of antipsychotic use and the duration of antipsychotic treatment are not in line with the treatment guidelines. This is a cause of concern because the use of antipsychotics increases the risk of severe adverse incidents.”
<h2>Using Behavioral Therapy as a Long-Term Solution for Alzheimer’s Symptoms</h2>
Dr. Helen Kales, director of the <a href="http://www.programforpositiveaging.org/" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.programforpositiveaging.org/">University of Michigan’s Program for Positive Aging</a>, said of these study results:
“Why I think the caregiver interventions work is because they train caregivers to look for the triggers of the symptoms. When [caregivers] see the triggers of the symptoms, they train them to manage them… It’s inherently caregiver and patient-centered.”
She also spoke about the risk of mortality associated with antipsychotic drugs, stating that the risk is small over the short term but increases the longer the drug is used.
More research into the effects of behavioral therapy on Alzheimer&#8217;s is being carried out, specifically on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/Care-and-cure-magazine/summer-18/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt-dementia" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/Care-and-cure-magazine/summer-18/cognitive-behavioural-therapy-cbt-dementia">cognitive behavioral therapy</a> (CBT).
<blockquote>CBT is a talking therapy that helps people understand the often missing link between actions, feelings and thoughts, and then use that understanding to make positive changes in their life. Over time, it has become a popular way of helping people cope with mental health problems including anxiety and depression.</blockquote>
Dr. Josh Stott is a researcher from the University College London and is investigating whether this type of therapy could help people in the early stages of the disease, who often struggle with anxiety and depression.
He says that CBT would only be helpful for individuals who have <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">Alzheimer&#8217;s and anxiety or depression</a> and that it would be more helpful in the early stages of the disease when cognition is not as impaired.
While this study is still ongoing, researchers are hopeful that CBT will have positive outcomes for people with Alzheimer&#8217;s, helping them to better manage the symptoms that often accompany the disease.
Have you seen the positive effects of behavioral therapy on a loved one with Alzheimer’s? What was your experience like? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">How to Deal With Aggression and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors">New Approaches for Dealing with Difficult Dementia Behaviors</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/understanding-the-challenging-behaviors-of-dementia/">The Key to Understanding the Challenging Behaviors of Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

The Effects of Behavioral Therapy on Alzheimer's

Last Updated: March 6, 2019 A new study has concluded that behavioral therapy may be more effective in treating symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease than commonly prescribed antipsychotic medications. Learn more about the study, the benefits of behavioral therapy and the risks of antipsychotic medication for people with Alzheimer’s. Antipsychotic Medication vs. Behavioral Therapy As most Alzheimer’s caregivers […]

Caregivers to parents and senior loved ones with dementia already know that it can be difficult to care for a loved one as the disease progresses. Dementia can make a person exhibit challenging behaviors and psychological symptoms that are upsetting for everyone involved.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Key-to-Understanding-the-Challenging-Behaviors-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="The Key to Understanding the Challenging Behaviors of Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68424" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Key-to-Understanding-the-Challenging-Behaviors-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Key-to-Understanding-the-Challenging-Behaviors-of-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Key-to-Understanding-the-Challenging-Behaviors-of-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Although we can&#8217;t prevent these behaviors or changes, there are ways to better understand and deal with them. Read our tips for handling the challenging behaviors associated with dementia.
<h2>The Challenging Behaviors Associated With Dementia</h2>
Some of the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">most common challenging behaviors and personality changes</a> that dementia brings include:
<ul>
<li>Aggression</li>
<li>Anger</li>
<li>Apathy or disinterest</li>
<li>Changes in personality</li>
<li>Communication problems</li>
<li>Following another person around the house all day</li>
<li>Mood swings</li>
<li>Night time waking</li>
<li>Pacing</li>
<li>Physical acting out (hitting)</li>
<li>Restlessness</li>
<li>Verbal Abuse</li>
</ul>
<h2>Tips on Handling and Understanding Challenging Dementia Behaviors</h2>
Fortunately, the following tips have been proven to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/caring-for-someone-with-dementia/">help caregivers handle the challenging behaviors</a> associated with dementia:
<h3>How to Handle Challenging Dementia Behaviors</h3>
<ol>
<li>Ask for help from others. Getting input from others can help caregivers see a new solution, take a new course of action or understand the underlying cause of challenging behaviors.</li>
<li>Attempt to accommodate the behavior if possible, instead of controlling it.</li>
<li>Be aware that the underlying cause of some symptoms can be a physical problem. Always report behavioral symptoms to a health care provider.</li>
<li>Be prepared to be flexible because what works today may not work tomorrow.</li>
<li>Change your perspective. The best way to do something different is to first attempt to see it differently. Changing how you see a situation will oftentimes enable the person with dementia to exhibit different behavior.</li>
<li>Develop coping strategies in advance for dealing with bad days.</li>
<li>Disrupt patterns which can help to change negative behavior. For example, try a different approach to how you ask a person with dementia to do something.</li>
<li>Employ compassion, flexibility and patience.</li>
<li>Keep in mind that although you cannot change your loved one’s behavior, you can always change your own.</li>
<li>Realize that when you try to control the person’s behavior, it will most often be met with resistance.</li>
<li>Remember that behaviors are motivated by something. Although it may not seem like it, a person with dementia is usually making a statement, even when performing repetitive actions (such as taking all the dishes out of the cupboard). He/she may be acting out of a sense of needing to do something meaningful or productive.</li>
<li>Try to anticipate the person with dementia’s underlying needs. This will allow caregivers to redirect many negative behaviors. For example, a person who is bored can be redirected to help with simple house chores (with supervision, of course).</li>
</ol>
<h3>How to Handle Agitation and Anxiety</h3>
There are several potential sources of agitation and anxiety in people with dementia, including confusion, fatigue and overstimulation.
Tips for handling agitation include:
<ul>
<li>Address any chaos in the environment by reducing noise level and the number of other people</li>
<li>Avoid moving household objects around whenever possible (familiar objects located in the same places can provide a sense of security)</li>
<li>Change the immediate environment when the person with dementia becomes agitated</li>
<li>Play soothing music</li>
<li>Safety-proof the environment to allow for as much autonomy as possible with the least number of hazards</li>
</ul>
<h3>How to Handle Communication Problems</h3>
Many people with dementia have communication problems, including forgetting words, using repetitive phrases and more.
Tips for handling communication problems include:
<ul>
<li>Give reassurance (try using touch if verbal support isn’t working)</li>
<li>Limit outside distractions when attempting to communicate (turn off the radio and television)</li>
<li>Listen for the meaning of the feelings behind the words</li>
<li>Speak clearly and loud enough to be heard</li>
<li>Use non-verbal means of communication (such as body language, facial expressions and touch)</li>
</ul>
<h3>How to Handle Delusions, Hallucinations and Paranoia</h3>
Along with anxiety, delusions, hallucinations and paranoia are common behavioral issues in people with dementia, which may occur as a result of changes in the physical health of the brain.
Tips for handling delusions, hallucinations and paranoia include:
<ul>
<li>Avoid arguing or trying to impose a sense of truth or reality into the person with dementia</li>
<li>Consult with a health care provider to find out if medication is needed</li>
<li>Don’t feel the need to play into the lie; you can be honest, while still providing dignity and respect</li>
<li>Reassure the person by saying things like: I am sorry you are getting upset by this.</li>
<li>Redirect the person with dementia to divert their attention to something more appropriate</li>
</ul>
<h3>How to Handle Sleeplessness and Sundowning</h3>
Insomnia and sleeplessness, also known as sundowning, are common behaviors in people with dementia. It occurs due to a combination of factors and can be worsened by being exhausted after a day’s events.
Tips on how to handle sleeplessness and sundowning include:
<ul>
<li>Avoid giving your loved one alcohol, caffeine or sugar</li>
<li>Consider hiring help at night so you can get enough sleep without having to leave your loved one with dementia unattended</li>
<li>Discourage napping during the daytime</li>
<li>Talk to a health care provider about natural sleep-inducing medication, such as melatonin</li>
<li>Turn the lights on and close the curtains well before sunset to eliminate confusion about the time, particularly in the winter months</li>
</ul>
<h3>How to Handle Wandering</h3>
It’s not always easy to find out why a person with dementia is wandering, but caregivers can use these insights to help them more effectively deal with the problem.
Tips on how to handle wandering include:
<ul>
<li>Add “child-safe” plastic covers to doorknobs</li>
<li>Consider a GPS tracking device</li>
<li>Have a current photo on file, just in case the person with dementia goes missing</li>
<li>Install door alarms and set them to go off if the door is opened</li>
<li>Install locks that require a key (keeping safety issues in mind for all people in the home)</li>
</ul>
You can learn more about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-6-15-managing-contentious-behaviors-loved-ones-with-dementia/">handling other behaviors of dementia</a>, like issues eating, repetitive speech and more, at the <a href="https://www.caregiver.org/caregivers-guide-understanding-dementia-behaviors">Family Caregiver Alliance, National Center on Caregiving</a> website.
Are you a caregiver? Do you have any other tips for handling and understanding the challenging behaviors of dementia? We&#8217;d like to hear them in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">How to Deal With Aggression and Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-6-15-managing-contentious-behaviors-loved-ones-with-dementia/">Managing Contentious Behaviors in Loved Ones with Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors/">New Approaches for Dealing With Difficult Dementia Behaviors</a></li>
</ul>

The Key to Understanding the Challenging Behaviors of Dementia

Caregivers to parents and senior loved ones with dementia already know that it can be difficult to care for a loved one as the disease progresses. Dementia can make a person exhibit challenging behaviors and psychological symptoms that are upsetting for everyone involved. Although we can’t prevent these behaviors or changes, there are ways to better understand […]

Last Updated: March 1, 2019
An early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be devastating for everyone involved. As more attention is brought to Alzheimer&#8217;s by films like “Still Alice,” we hope more awareness, funding and support will be given to those coping with this disease.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-Support-Groups-for-Those-With-Early-Onset-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg" alt="How to Find Support Groups for Those With Early-Onset Alzheimer&#039;s" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68355" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-Support-Groups-for-Those-With-Early-Onset-Alzheimers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-Support-Groups-for-Those-With-Early-Onset-Alzheimers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-to-Find-Support-Groups-for-Those-With-Early-Onset-Alzheimers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">early-onset Alzheimer’s</a>, support groups for the disease that are available now and their benefits.
<h2>Early-Onset Alzheimer&#8217;s Support Groups and Their Benefits</h2>
Of more than five million people diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease in the United States, <a href="http://hingham.wickedlocal.com/article/20150209/NEWS/150207589" data-cke-saved-href="http://hingham.wickedlocal.com/article/20150209/NEWS/150207589">an estimated 5% have early-onset Alzheimer’s</a> with symptoms occurring before the age of 65. Unfortunately, early-onset Alzheimer’s is still rare enough that there are not many resources available for people struggling with the diagnosis.
Support groups are one way for people with early-onset Alzheimer’s and their caregivers to find that they’re not alone. Support groups allow caregivers and people with the disease to share frustrations and grieve with others, as well as share advice, tips and victories.
Alicia Seaver is the executive director at a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">memory care community</a>, as well as a facilitator for early-onset Alzheimer’s support groups. Ms. Seaver noted of the support groups that:
<blockquote>“It’s encouraging to see how empathetic and thoughtful participants are with each other. They are always quick to offer advice, reassurance and support, and I’ve found that while participants meet each other for the first time in the support group, they quickly go on to forge friendships that are active outside of the group.”</blockquote>
<h2>How to Find Alzheimer&#8217;s Support Groups</h2>
When searching for early-onset Alzheimer’s support groups, consider whether a peer or a professionally led group would be a better fit. A peer-led group is led by people who have also been diagnosed and are in the early stages of the disease, whereas a professionally led group has a highly trained person leading.
The <a href="https://www.alz.org/help-support" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/help-support">Alzheimer’s Association</a> has chapters throughout the U.S. that hosts support groups for people in all stages of Alzheimer’s, including younger people with early-onset, as well as adult caregivers and even groups for children. They offer both peer-led and professional groups and all leaders receive training specific to the group he or she is leading.
In addition to support groups that meet in person, there are online communities that offer support in a forum setting. People can ask questions, share their experiences and give advice the same way as in a group setting, but there is a degree of anonymity as well as convenience.
In some cases, both an in-person and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">online group may be beneficial</a> to those coping with a diagnosis.
<h2>The Top 5 Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregiver Support Groups</h2>
These Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiver support groups can give assistance and comfort to those who are navigating <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">early-onset Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiving responsibilities</a>:
<h3>1. <a href="https://www.alz.org/events/event_search?etid=2&amp;cid=0" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/events/event_search?etid=2&amp;cid=0">Alzheimer’s Association Local Support Groups</a></h3>
The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association offers these in-person support groups for caregivers and loved ones living with the disease. These support groups are facilitated by trained individuals and many offer groups that are specialized for caregivers, children, those coping with early-onset Alzheimer&#8217;s and other specialized needs.
<h3>2. Alzheimer’s Association Online Support Groups</h3>
The Alzheimer’s Association also hosts ALZConnected, a free online community where people who are living with Alzheimer&#8217;s, caregivers, family and friends can get advice, ask questions and find the help they need.
<h3>3. <a href="https://alzfdn.org/caregiving-resources/2860-2/" data-cke-saved-href="https://alzfdn.org/caregiving-resources/2860-2/">Alzheimer’s Foundation of America</a></h3>
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) has support groups for both caregivers and for people diagnosed with the disease. The caregiver support groups are free, weekly telephone-based groups that are facilitated by AFA’s licensed social workers and give caregivers a place to connect.
<h3>4. <a href="https://www.caregiver.org/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.caregiver.org/">Family Caregiver Alliance CareJourney</a></h3>
The Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) CareJourney is an online resource for family caregivers of adults with chronical cognitive or physical conditions like Alzheimer’s. It includes caregiver education resources, an e-newsletter and online support groups.
<h3>5. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Memory-People-126017237474382/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.facebook.com/Memory-People-126017237474382/">Memory People</a></h3>
Memory People is a closed Facebook group founded by Rick Phelps, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at the age of 57. A Facebook awareness and support group, Memory People provides assistance, information and support around the clock.
Have you or a loved one experienced the benefits of a support group for early-onset Alzheimer’s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">After a Diagnosis: Early-Stage Caregiving Tips</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-are-the-top-early-signs-and-symptoms-of-dementia/">What Are the Top Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/10-13-14-early-onset-alzheimers/">When Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Strikes</a></li>
</ul>

How to Find Support Groups for Those With Early-Onset Alzheimer's

Last Updated: March 1, 2019 An early-onset Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be devastating for everyone involved. As more attention is brought to Alzheimer’s by films like “Still Alice,” we hope more awareness, funding and support will be given to those coping with this disease. Learn more about early-onset Alzheimer’s, support groups for the disease that are available […]

As dementia reaches epidemic proportions worldwide, it’s only natural to become concerned with our parents or senior loved ones becoming forgetful. However, dementia is more than just forgetfulness and can occur within a variety of potential diseases. If you&#8217;re becoming increasingly worried about a loved one, it&#8217;s helpful to know the early signs of dementia to understand if or when your family might need to seek out a healthcare professional&#8217;s guidance.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/What-Are-the-Top-Early-Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="What Are the Top Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68456" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/What-Are-the-Top-Early-Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/What-Are-the-Top-Early-Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/What-Are-the-Top-Early-Signs-and-Symptoms-of-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the top 10 early warning signs and symptoms of dementia.
<h2>Early Symptoms of Dementia</h2>
More than mere forgetfulness, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/types-of-dementia/">dementia is a neurodegenerative condition</a> that involves the impairment of cognitive skills and memory.
To be <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-dementia/">diagnosed with dementia</a>, a person must exhibit at least two types of impairment that significantly interfere with everyday life.
In addition to trouble remembering, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">someone may also experience impairments with</a>:
<ul>
<li>Communication</li>
<li>Focus</li>
<li>Language</li>
<li>Reasoning</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Top 10 Early Signs of Dementia</h2>
In order to encourage early medical intervention, the <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs">Alzheimer’s Association</a> has assembled these top early signs of dementia.
If you <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">notice any of these signs or symptoms of dementia</a> in a parent or senior loved one, you should schedule an appointment with a physician:
<h3>1. A lack of problem-solving skills.</h3>
In the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">early stages of dementia</a>, your loved one may be unable to manage a budget, forget to pay their bills or have trouble following a familiar recipe. Things may take longer than they used to as processing problems and solving them will take more energy.
<h3>2. Confused speech.</h3>
It can be difficult for people in the early stages of the disease to follow or join a conversation. They may have trouble recalling the name of familiar items and struggle with vocabulary.
<h3>3. Confusion.</h3>
Someone with dementia will <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">often lose track of space and time</a>, forgetting the day or week. He or she may easily forget where they are and even how they got there.
<h3>4. Difficulty completing once familiar tasks.</h3>
Completing daily tasks can be difficult even in the early stages of the disease. This can manifest itself in getting lost while driving to a familiar location, forgetting the rules of a game or having trouble remembering how to manage daily chores and housework.
<h3>5. Forgetfulness that interferes with daily life.</h3>
A person in the early stages of dementia will often <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-13/alzheimers-brain-stages/">forget things that he or she has recently learned</a>, or forget important dates and events. He or she may increasingly rely on memory aids or family and friends for appointments. This is different from a typical age-related change where a person will sometimes forget names but remember them later.
<h3>6. Misplacing items.</h3>
A person with the disease may put items in inappropriate places and then have trouble retracing his or her steps to find the item. This may increase as dementia progresses and can lead the person to accuse others of theft.
<h3>7. Poor judgment.</h3>
People with dementia are frequently targeted by scammers because of poor judgment. A person with the disease is more likely to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/managing-finances-for-a-parent-with-alzheimers/">expose private personal information</a> or give money to a telemarketer. They may also have trouble keeping themselves clean and well-kept, forgetting to do laundry or take a shower.
<h3>8. Spatial and visual disorientation.</h3>
The disease can also manifest itself as vision problems and people may have trouble seeing certain colors or contrast, causing issues with driving.
<h3>9. Sudden changes in mood and personality.</h3>
People in the early stages of dementia may also experience <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-deal-with-aggression-and-dementia/">sudden shifts in mood and personality</a>. They can become anxious, fearful, paranoid and easily upset.
<h3>10. Withdrawal from social or work activities.</h3>
Someone in the early stages of the disease may begin to isolate themselves from social or work gatherings because of other changes like confusion, disorientation and loss of speech. They may withdraw from a social club out of confusion or fear.
If you have noticed any of these symptoms of dementia in a parent or senior loved one, seek a healthcare professional&#8217;s guidance. Obtaining an early diagnosis of the disease is critical to maximizing treatment options, participating in clinical trials and planning for the future.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/after-a-diagnosis-early-stage-caregiving-tips/">After a Diagnosis: Early-Stage Caregiving Tips</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/new-diagnostic-and-treatment-options-for-alzheimers/">New Diagnostic and Treatment Options for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-dementia/">6 Questions Every Family Should Ask When a Loved One Is Diagnosed With Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

What Are the Top Early Signs and Symptoms of Dementia?

As dementia reaches epidemic proportions worldwide, it’s only natural to become concerned with our parents or senior loved ones becoming forgetful. However, dementia is more than just forgetfulness and can occur within a variety of potential diseases. If you’re becoming increasingly worried about a loved one, it’s helpful to know the early signs of dementia to […]

Are you a caregiver for a parent or senior loved one with dementia? Have you noticed that your loved one exhibits various disease symptoms depending on the season? Recent research has found that the seasons do, in fact, have an influence on dementia symptoms.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Study-Shows-That-Dementia-Symptoms-Worsen-in-the-Spring-300x158.jpg" alt="New Study Shows That Dementia Symptoms Worsen in the Spring" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68384" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Study-Shows-That-Dementia-Symptoms-Worsen-in-the-Spring-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Study-Shows-That-Dementia-Symptoms-Worsen-in-the-Spring-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/New-Study-Shows-That-Dementia-Symptoms-Worsen-in-the-Spring.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the recent study and how dementia symptoms can worsen in the spring.
<h2>Dementia Symptoms Worsen in Certain Seasons</h2>
Experts have known that seasons can impact the brain for some time. Medical professionals have been aware that seasonal changes can result in a type of depression called <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-and-seasonal-affective-disorder/">seasonal affective disorder (SAD)</a>. Additionally, other mental disorders, like schizophrenia, are more likely to begin during the winter months. Recently, researchers aimed to find if there was a seasonal component to dementia as well.
<blockquote>What scientists discovered was that aging adults, both with and without dementia, were found to have worse cognitive skills in the spring and winter seasons, reports the study, published in <a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1002647">PLOS Medicine</a>.</blockquote>
“We had previously discovered that the change in seasons causes large-scale alterations in the nucleus and function of brain cells in older individuals. We hypothesized that, if brain cell function was changing so much&#8230; it might also be affected by seasonal rhythms,” states the co-author of the study, Dr. Philip De Jager, professor of neurology at Columbia University.
<h2>Study Shows How Dementia Symptoms Worsen in the Spring</h2>
Researchers took a close look at the findings in other studies of aging adults in Canada, France and the United States. These studies included 3,353 participants, who researchers conducted neurological and psychological testing on.
The study findings showed that there was a strong <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-seasonal-sundowning-can-affect-alzheimers/">link between cognition and seasons</a>, including that:
<ul>
<li>Cognitive function was higher in the fall and summer months when compared with spring and winter</li>
<li>The chance of getting diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a condition that oftentimes precludes dementia, was 31% higher in the spring and winter months</li>
<li>There was nearly a 5-year difference in age-related decline in the spring and winter months</li>
</ul>
In conclusion, the studies indicate that there is a significant association between cognition and season of the year in aging adults —including those with dementia. Increasing the number of clinical resources for treating dementia in the spring and winter months may lend itself to improving the overall treatment of the disease in the future.
&#8220;There may be value in increasing dementia-related clinical resources in the early spring and winter when symptoms are likely to be more pronounced,&#8221; the <a href="https://www.chronobiology.com/the-seasonality-of-alzheimers-dementia-symptoms-worsen-in-winter/">study authors</a> explain.
Understanding that there is a scientific basis for the worsening of disease symptoms during the spring and winter seasons, may help caregivers to better prepare themselves for dementia symptoms and the overall needs of care recipients.
Are you a caregiver to a parent or senior loved one with dementia? Have you noticed dementia symptoms worsen in your loved one in the spring? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/alzheimers-and-seasonal-affective-disorder/">Alzheimer’s and Seasonal Affective Disorder</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-seasonal-sundowning-can-affect-alzheimers/">How Seasonal Sundowning Can Affect Seniors With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/1-6-15-new-approaches-difficult-behaviors/">New Approaches for Dealing With Difficult Dementia Behaviors</a></li>
</ul>

New Study Shows That Dementia Symptoms Worsen in the Spring

Are you a caregiver for a parent or senior loved one with dementia? Have you noticed that your loved one exhibits various disease symptoms depending on the season? Recent research has found that the seasons do, in fact, have an influence on dementia symptoms. Learn more about the recent study and how dementia symptoms can […]

For Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers, parents and senior loved ones living with the disease, social engagement is key to finding balance and promoting wellness. Engaging in social activities promotes a strong sense of belonging and gives people with Alzheimer&#8217;s a sense of purpose when it feels like their world is shrinking.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Caregivers-Share-10-Tips-to-Keep-Loved-Ones-Engaged-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer&#039;s Caregivers Share 10 Tips to Keep Loved Ones Engaged" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68204" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Caregivers-Share-10-Tips-to-Keep-Loved-Ones-Engaged-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Caregivers-Share-10-Tips-to-Keep-Loved-Ones-Engaged-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Caregivers-Share-10-Tips-to-Keep-Loved-Ones-Engaged.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn how to keep your loved ones engaged in the world around them while still having fun together.
<h2>10 Ways for Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregivers to Keep Loved Ones With the Disease Engaged</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers and their loved ones deserve the chance to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">make the most every day</a>, to develop new and meaningful relationships, and enjoy each other’s presence.
<a href="https://www.self.com/story/alzheimers-active-engaged" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.self.com/story/alzheimers-active-engaged" rel="noopener noreferrer">Self Magazine</a> recently asked Alzheimer’s caregivers how they found ways to keep their loved ones active and engaged. Here is what they said:
<h3>1. Adapt enjoyable activities that may no longer be safe.</h3>
If the activities your parent or senior loved one enjoys are no longer safe after an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis, think through possible adaptations that you can make so that they become something your loved one can continue. For example, if your loved one enjoys fishing, maybe now they never go fishing alone. Or, if your loved one has a strong golf game, seek out a golf camp for people with neurological disorders that can adapt the game for physical limitations.
<h3>2. Continue participating in activities, as long as it is safe to do so.</h3>
It’s important for caregivers to see their loved ones as the individuals they are. Instead of seeing a person as a patient, continue to engage them in their hobbies and interests before their diagnosis. Be sure and give your loved one ample opportunities to continue their interests, as long as those activities are safe to continue doing.
<h3>3. Enjoy nature together.</h3>
Going on walks together is a great way to stay engaged and can improve communication. Walking increases mobility, flexibility and strength, and can also fight anxiety and depression. Walk slow and together, breathing in the fresh air to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">reset a challenging day</a>.
<h3>4. Exercise cognitive skills.</h3>
Alzheimer&#8217;s is a neurodegenerative disease that progresses in stages. Look for the areas of cognition that have not been impacted and celebrate those. Maybe your loved one still loves to write so encourage him or her to write about their journey. Maybe they have excellent photography skills or love to read. Celebrate small victories and encourage your loved one to use cognitive skills even as the disease progresses.
<h3>5. Give grace and understanding.</h3>
Remember that your loved one is more than a diagnosis and respect his or her wishes. Don’t try to force activities on days that neither of you are up for it. Choose your battles and err on the side of letting things go instead of forcing your reality on your loved one. Choose to be okay with where your loved one is as the disease progresses.
<h3>6. Involve them in household chores.</h3>
Having your loved one help with household chores that are safe can contribute to a sense of meaning and purpose for people living with Alzheimer&#8217;s. Folding clothes and putting away dishes are two examples of safe and productive chores that people with the disease can help accomplish safely.
<h3>7. Join an Alzheimer’s support group.</h3>
For people with Alzheimer&#8217;s and their caregivers, finding others who are going through the same thing can be life-changing. Creating a unique support system, these groups can help caregivers and people with dementia cope with the difficulties of the disease and can even help you find humor in certain situations. If getting out and meeting with an in-person group seems overwhelming, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">learn more about finding online support groups</a>.
<h3>8. Read out loud.</h3>
Pick a favorite book, or one that will connect your loved one with his or her past and read it out loud together. Not only is it good bonding time, but it can also help get your loved one mentally engaged with the present while enjoying beloved stories.
<h3>9. Set goals together.</h3>
Set attainable goals and work on accomplishing them together. This can give meaning and a new sense of purpose to your loved one. Plan a family reunion or take a trip. Whatever your loved one wants to do, consider what it would take to make it happen and work together to make that goal a reality.
<h3>10. Try, try, try again.</h3>
Just because something works for a friend who is also a caregiver, does not mean it will work for you and your loved one. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/balance-life-as-an-alzheimers-caregiver/">Keep trying different activities</a> until you find one that you both enjoy and that works for your loved one’s capabilities and interests.
Are you an Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiver? What fun activities do you do with your loved one? We&#8217;d love to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">How to Create a Checklist and Daily Care Plan for Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Internet-Based Resources and Support for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/biggest-alzheimers-caregiver-challenges/">Study Identifies Biggest Alzheimer’s Caregiver Challenges</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's Caregivers Share 10 Tips to Keep Loved Ones Engaged

For Alzheimer’s caregivers, parents and senior loved ones living with the disease, social engagement is key to finding balance and promoting wellness. Engaging in social activities promotes a strong sense of belonging and gives people with Alzheimer’s a sense of purpose when it feels like their world is shrinking. Learn how to keep your loved […]

Last Updated: February 20, 2019
The Montessori Method is well-known for being used to successfully engage children, but it&#8217;s also an approach that&#8217;s gaining traction with caregivers of parents and senior loved ones with dementia. While it&#8217;s still a new idea, there is already evidence that the Montessori Method can reduce anxiety for people with dementia by providing them with engaging activities that they find rewarding.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Using-the-Montessori-Method-for-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Using the Montessori Method for Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68454" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Using-the-Montessori-Method-for-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Using-the-Montessori-Method-for-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Using-the-Montessori-Method-for-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about how caregivers are using the approach to engage seniors and how you can put it into practice with a loved one.
<h2>Connecting the Montessori Method to Dementia</h2>
Developed in the early 20th century, the <a href="https://amshq.org/Families/Why-Choose-Montessori" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Montessori Method of teaching</a> holds that when you&#8217;re working with children, you must consider their capabilities and needs. What are they able to do? What do they like to do? The balancing act the teacher performs centers on not challenging the students — you don&#8217;t want them to become frustrated and give up — but rather, making the task a little beyond their comfort zone, so they still have the opportunity to improve. The same is true for those with dementia.
The Montessori Method of caregiving for dementia has a similar goal of engaging the senses in order to help seniors with the disease rediscover the world around them.
<blockquote>Providing the most effective care means maximizing the opportunities these individuals have to reconnect with a world they&#8217;re losing access to. Caregivers and researchers alike are increasingly finding that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">sensory experiences created through art or music therapy and physical activities</a> gives senior loved ones with dementia positive emotions that they may have lost the ability to experience.</blockquote>
Though a senior may become paranoid or withdrawn as dementia advances, in many cases, their long-term memories will be largely well-preserved. The Montessori Method is about providing ways to connect with those memories. Presenting a senior loved one with fresh flowers and an empty vase may give him or her a way to step out of a sense of isolation and into a beautiful spring day, because the experience of putting the flowers in the vase is enough to powerfully call forth the memory of cutting fresh flowers, for instance.
The personal touch and positive attitudes that are hallmarks of the Montessori Method help caregivers maximize their loved ones&#8217; opportunities to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/3-15-17-sensory-room-for-dementia/">reconnect with pleasant events</a> of the past and to re-experience the accompanying positive emotions.
<h2>How Caregivers Can Use the Montessori Method for Dementia</h2>
<a href="https://www.apa.org/action/careers/health/cameron-camp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Cameron Camp</a>, a psychologist in applied gerontology, discovered that the Montessori Method could be adapted into the basis of a new approach to dementia care. Dr. Camp states the problem this way: &#8220;How can we connect with the person who is still here?&#8221; One answer to this question is to use the Montessori approach to re-engage the types of memory that are spared by dementia, including motor memory such as how to dress and how to eat.
<blockquote>An example of a skills-building activity that Dr. Camp employs involves people with dementia using a slotted spoon to dig in a tub of dry rice for objects that are buried beneath the surface. When they find a &#8220;treasure,&#8221; the rice falls through the slots, leaving the object on the spoon. In the process, their brains are re-learning the motor skills that are necessary to feed yourself.</blockquote>
&#8220;We want to flip the system on its ear,&#8221; Dr. Camp says, &#8220;to change people&#8217;s expectations about what people with dementia are capable of. Our job is to allow this person to be present — to help them, wherever they are in the journey of dementia, to be connected with a community and contribute to the best of their ability.&#8221;
Let&#8217;s take a look at different ways caregivers can put Montessori into practice:
<ol>
<li>For advanced dementia, people may take comfort in holding dolls, a series of dolls and doll clothes can make for a pleasurable activity.</li>
<li>For those who enjoy baking or cooking, baking ingredients and a safe kitchen environment.</li>
<li>Have a basket of clean socks that need to be matched and folded.</li>
<li>Lay out a basket of clean towels to fold.</li>
<li>Prep tables with materials for activities such as puzzles, sorting exercises and other games.</li>
<li>Put out a bin of plastic plumbing tubes that can be connected and put together.</li>
</ol>
What we&#8217;re increasingly learning is that those with dementia can come to not only enjoy the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-30/how-positive-environments-affect-patients/">process of participating in something they used to regularly do</a>, but also come away with a definite sense of accomplishment that can help improve their quality of life.
Have you or a loved one found the Montessori method helpful? Please share stories about your experience in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/3-15-17-sensory-room-for-dementia/">A Sensory Room for Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-01-30/how-positive-environments-affect-patients/">How Positive Environments Dramatically Affect Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">10 Stimulating Activities for Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Using the Montessori Method for Dementia

Last Updated: February 20, 2019 The Montessori Method is well-known for being used to successfully engage children, but it’s also an approach that’s gaining traction with caregivers of parents and senior loved ones with dementia. While it’s still a new idea, there is already evidence that the Montessori Method can reduce anxiety for people with dementia by […]

Couples that have spent years, or even decades together, learn how to communicate easily and effectively. Unfortunately, after an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis, that communication no longer works. You can’t depend on the same communication strategies and you can’t expect the spouse you’re speaking with to recognize the same experiences and references that used to serve as important parts of your relationship. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Better-Alzheimers-Communication-Using-the-CARE-Method-300x158.jpg" alt="Better Alzheimer&#039;s Communication Using the CARE Method" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68212" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Better-Alzheimers-Communication-Using-the-CARE-Method-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Better-Alzheimers-Communication-Using-the-CARE-Method-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Better-Alzheimers-Communication-Using-the-CARE-Method.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Although this is a difficult transition for couples to go through, there are some Alzheimer&#8217;s communication tips that can help during this time. See these tips and read more about using the CARE Method to communicate with a spouse with the disease.
<h2>Alzheimer’s Caregiver Communication</h2>
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/build-a-meaningful-connection-with-a-loved-one-who-has-dementia/">Communicating effectively with people with Alzheimer’s</a> is a skill — one that professional caregivers may be trained in, but family caregivers rarely are.
<blockquote>The idea that you would need special training in how to communicate with a partner is an idea some partners may struggle with, but your relationship with a spouse will be different as the disease takes hold and you have to learn to adapt.</blockquote>
Christine L. Williams, DNSc, principal investigator of the <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180221122904.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180221122904.htm">CARE (Caring About Relationships and Emotions) Study</a>, explains, “Caregivers are not experts in communicating with people with dementia. Sometimes they choose strategies they think are helpful but may be ineffective.” Even worse, she notes, “they often give up communicating with their less verbal partners because benefits are not as obvious.”
<h2>How the CARE Method Works</h2>
Recognizing that partners face unique challenges when caring for a spouse with Alzheimer’s, researchers at the Florida Atlantic University set out to create a study on how to help equip spousal caregivers with the skills they need to better communicate with their loved ones.
The <a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180221122904.htm" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/02/180221122904.htm">CARE Study</a> was a 10-week experiment that combined coaching, role-playing and a manual with weekly modules to teach couples the skills they needed to understand each other again.
<blockquote>The study focused on improving facilitative (or helpful) communication for the caregiver and sociable communication for the person with Alzheimer’s. They also aimed to reduce unhelpful communication behaviors such as criticisms or quizzing a partner’s memories, or otherwise disengaging.</blockquote>
Researchers met with the couples each week to help them with the lessons, offering role play for caregivers to become more comfortable with the CARE method.
As a result, the researchers found that the couples were much more comfortable communicating with each other at the end of the 10 weeks. In particular, they found that the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-11-15-loving-someone-with-dementia/">spouse with Alzheimer’s</a> showed a statistically significant improvement in their social communication. They made eye contact more often, stayed engaged and on topic longer and joked more with their partners.
<h2>Ways to Put the CARE Method to Use</h2>
One of the big takeaways of this study is that spouses of people with Alzheimer’s can’t expect to keep doing things in their relationship the same way. You have to put some effort into learning <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-22-17-keeping-love-alive-throughout-alzheimers/">how to be in a relationship anew</a>, no matter how many years you were together before the diagnosis.
<ol>
<li>For instance, when you mention something your partner doesn’t remember, either drop it or describe your memory of it to them as a story. Don’t try to coax the memory out of them.</li>
<li>Pay careful attention to how your partner responds to the things you do and say — both verbally and nonverbally.</li>
<li>Finally, look for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">activities you can do together </a>where their memory doesn’t matter.</li>
</ol>
Your relationship can still be full and rewarding, even though what it looks like will change. You just have to make an effort to learn how to talk to your partner on their level.
Are you interested in using the CARE Method to communicate with a senior loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s? What other communication techniques have you used while caregiving? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/build-a-meaningful-connection-with-a-loved-one-who-has-dementia/">How to Build a Meaningful Connection With a Loved One Who Has Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-22-17-keeping-love-alive-throughout-alzheimers/">“Keeping Love Alive” Throughout Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-11-15-loving-someone-with-dementia/">20 Things to Remember If You Love Someone with Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

Better Alzheimer's Communication Using the CARE Method

Couples that have spent years, or even decades together, learn how to communicate easily and effectively. Unfortunately, after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, that communication no longer works. You can’t depend on the same communication strategies and you can’t expect the spouse you’re speaking with to recognize the same experiences and references that used to serve as important […]

Last Updated: February 15, 2019
As the Alzheimer&#8217;s epidemic increases, younger family members may find themselves responsible for senior loved ones with the disease. In an effort to better prepare younger generations for the challenges of caregiving, the UCLA Alzheimer&#8217;s and Dementia Care Program has developed caregiver education, training and webinars to equip Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers of all ages.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/UCLA-Helps-Prepare-Alzheimers-Caregivers-300x158.jpg" alt="UCLA Helps Prepare Alzheimer’s Caregivers" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68469" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/UCLA-Helps-Prepare-Alzheimers-Caregivers-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/UCLA-Helps-Prepare-Alzheimers-Caregivers-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/UCLA-Helps-Prepare-Alzheimers-Caregivers.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about UCLA&#8217;s innovative caregiver education program and how it helps improve the lives of both caregivers and those living with dementia.
<h2>The Urgent Need for Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregivers</h2>
According to the <a href="http://www.alz.org/facts/#quickFacts" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.alz.org/facts/#quickFacts" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association</a>, there are more than five million Americans living with the disease, with the number expected to triple in the next decade. In response to the call for additional Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers and the demand being placed on younger family members, the <a href="http://dementia.uclahealth.org/" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://dementia.uclahealth.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer">UCLA Alzheimer&#8217;s and Dementia Care Program</a> has developed <a href="https://www.uclahealth.org/dementia/caregiver-education" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">resources and training</a> designed to help caregivers prepare for the challenges of caring for someone with the disease.
Dr. Zaldy Tan, associate professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and medical director of the program, says,
<blockquote>&#8220;Caregiving has become more diverse and will continue to be. In terms of gender, we have more male caregivers than ever before. Younger family members are also taking on the role as parents age and oftentimes caregiving is shared across different generations. When a loved one is diagnosed, family members are suddenly thrust into this caregiving role, and unfortunately, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/balance-life-as-an-alzheimers-caregiver/">a lot of them are ill-prepared</a>.&#8221;</blockquote>
<h2>UCLA Strives to Equip a New Generation of Alzheimer&#8217;s Caregivers</h2>
In addition to providing Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers with education, resources and training, UCLA recently held a &#8220;<a href="http://newsroom.ucla.edu/stories/younger-generations-forced-to-take-on-caregiving-role-turn-to-boot-camp-for-guidance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Caregiver Boot Camp</a>&#8221; which hired professional actors specifically trained to act as though they are in the advanced stages of dementia.
After a full day of learning caregiving techniques, developing communication tools and practicing safety techniques, caregivers are able to put what they have learned into action with the actors through role-playing.
<blockquote>Dr. Tan says of the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">caregiver education and training</a>, &#8220;The best way to allow all of the information to sink in is to practice what you&#8217;ve learned in a realistic situation. The actors are instructed to respond to intervention techniques just as an Alzheimer&#8217;s patient would.&#8221; Each scenario is then reviewed to help caregivers understand the best course of action in each scenario.</blockquote>
One of the main focuses of the training is on self-care, encouraging Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers to take on responsibilities as a team with family and friends. &#8220;Taking care of the caregiver is just as important as taking care of the patient, so having someone that can provide a respite is extremely helpful,&#8221; Dr. Tan states.
UCLA hopes that their caregiver program will inspire other institutions to reach out to Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers – giving them the confidence and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">tools they need to become effective caregivers</a> while keeping their loved ones comfortable and safe.
Have you attended Alzheimer&#8217;s caregiver training before? What was your experience like? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">How “Caregiver Education Days” Could Help Families Address Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Internet-Based Resources and Support for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-15-14-dementia-caregiving-holidays/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alzheimers.net/12-15-14-dementia-caregiving-holidays/">Top Tips for Dementia Caregiving</a></li>
</ul>

UCLA Helps Prepare Alzheimer’s Caregivers

Last Updated: February 15, 2019 As the Alzheimer’s epidemic increases, younger family members may find themselves responsible for senior loved ones with the disease. In an effort to better prepare younger generations for the challenges of caregiving, the UCLA Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program has developed caregiver education, training and webinars to equip Alzheimer’s caregivers of […]

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease where symptoms worsen over time. However, in the early stages of the disease, most people are able to function independently and some are still able to volunteer and work. This can be a challenging time for caregivers who want to be available to help while encouraging independence and respecting the privacy of a parent or senior loved one.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/After-a-Diagnosis-Early-Stage-Caregiving-300x158.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68020" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/After-a-Diagnosis-Early-Stage-Caregiving-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/After-a-Diagnosis-Early-Stage-Caregiving-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/After-a-Diagnosis-Early-Stage-Caregiving.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Read our early-stage caregiving tips and how to prepare for a loved one&#8217;s future with Alzheimer&#8217;s.
<h2>Early-Stage Caregiving Tips for Alzheimer’s</h2>
The <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">early stage of Alzheimer’s</a> can be a difficult time for the person with the disease, their caregivers and loved ones who may be anxious about the future and unsure how to proceed. These feelings are normal and being honest and open about them can spur helpful conversations about the future, which now seems uncertain.
One of the biggest challenges in <a href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/early-stage" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">early-stage caregiving for Alzheimer’s</a> is finding a balance between assistance and independence. You want to be there for your loved one without being offensive or overbearing.
While every relationship has its own unique dynamics, these general rules can help you decide when to step in and when to give your loved one space:
<h3>1. Assume the best.</h3>
Unless there is <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/home-safety-checklist-for-alzheimers-and-dementia/">an immediate safety concern</a>, assume your loved one is capable of performing the task at hand.
<h3>2. Break up your task list and include your loved one as much as possible.</h3>
For example, if grocery shopping is too overwhelming right now, ask your loved one to help plan meals and prepare the grocery list. Focus on what your loved one can do and encourage them in those tasks.
<h3>3. Establish open communication.</h3>
Create a help signal that is just for you and your loved one that will let you know when they would like your help. Let him or her know that <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/communication-tips-for-each-stage-of-alzheimers/">you want what’s best for them and are here to help</a> in whatever form that takes.
<h3>4. Is there a safety concern?</h3>
Could performing this task alone cause your loved one with Alzheimer&#8217;s injury or harm? If yes, step in. If no, stand by and offer your encouragement and support.
<h2>How to Prepare for a Future With Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
As the disease progresses differently for each person, it can be hard for caregivers to know when to take the lead.
To ensure proper care is being provided, ask your parent or senior loved one if they would like your assistance with the following tasks:
<ul>
<li>Arranging transportation or driving</li>
<li>Finances</li>
<li>Making and tracking medical appointments</li>
<li>Medication management</li>
<li>Planning and organizing daily tasks</li>
<li>Remembering names and words, and as the disease progresses, people</li>
</ul>
While you help your senior loved one cope with this new diagnosis, do not overlook its impact on you as a caregiver.
<blockquote>Many caregivers feel anger, anxiety, denial, depression, fear, frustration and grief after a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer&#8217;s. These are normal emotions. Reach out to your loved one, to a counselor or a support group to work through these emotions and navigate this challenging time.</blockquote>
How have you found balance while early-stage caregiving? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories and any suggestions you&#8217;re willing to share in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/communication-tips-for-each-stage-of-alzheimers/">Communication Tips for Each Stage of Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">Dementia: Stages, Symptoms and Treatment Options for the Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
</ul>

After a Diagnosis: Early-Stage Caregiving Tips

Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease where symptoms worsen over time. However, in the early stages of the disease, most people are able to function independently and some are still able to volunteer and work. This can be a challenging time for caregivers who want to be available to help while encouraging independence and respecting […]

When Mom is given an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, she receives a great deal of attention and care. But what about Dad? After learning about his spouse’s diagnosis, he needs support, too.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Supporting-the-Other-Parent-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-300x158.jpg" alt="Supporting the Other Parent After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68401" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Supporting-the-Other-Parent-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Supporting-the-Other-Parent-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Supporting-the-Other-Parent-After-an-Alzheimers-Diagnosis.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Jane Sadowsky-Emmerth, RN, associate clinical director of Partners in Care, a division of the <a href="http://www.vnsny.org/">Visiting Nurse Service of New York</a>, speaks with us about how to provide both emotional and practical support to a parent after the other parent has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
<h2>5 Tips for Coping and Supporting a Parent After an Alzheimer&#8217;s Diagnosis</h2>
Mom may be devastated by <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-dementia/">her Alzheimer’s diagnosis</a>, but she’s not alone in the struggle. After all, when one person is affected, the whole family feels the impact. In fact, “an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can sometimes cause more stress for family caregivers than for the person receiving the diagnosis,” says Sadowsky-Emmerth.
That’s why Dad needs your help now more than ever.
Here are five ways to support him in the days, weeks and months <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">after Mom’s diagnosis</a>:
<h3>1. Be honest.</h3>
You may be tempted to sugarcoat the situation in order to shield Dad from pain, but that will only delay his acceptance of the facts. Instead, Sadowsky-Emmerth encourages families to acknowledge the realities of life with Alzheimer’s, no matter how difficult.
<h3>2. Discourage the blame game.</h3>
Dad may have been frustrated with Mom for years because of early symptoms of undiagnosed Alzheimer’s and is now feeling guilty about his reactions and wondering what he could have done to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/these-things-do-not-cause-alzheimers/">prevent the diagnosis</a>. If that’s the case, gently remind him that he is not to blame, says Sadowsky-Emmerth. Mom’s diagnosis is not Dad’s fault.
<h3>3. Encourage self-care.</h3>
“Separation, even for a few minutes or hours, can be difficult for the spouse of someone with Alzheimer’s who may not want them to leave,” says Sadowsky-Emmerth. But as hard as it may be, remind Dad that it’s critical to take time for himself. Even something as simple as a walk around the block can help him feel refreshed and recharged.
<h3>4. Provide respite care.</h3>
In order to help Dad get some alone time, offer to take care of Mom for a few hours or even a whole weekend. Your visits can provide him with a much-needed break from the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-reasons-why-alzheimers-and-dementia-caregivers-are-so-stressed/">stress of caregiving</a>. “Offering to cook a meal, do laundry, or stay home with Mom while Dad takes a fitness class or enjoys a weekend away can help him reclaim a sense of well-being,” explains Sadowsky-Emmerth.
<h3>5. Seek professional help.</h3>
If Dad is struggling to provide the assistance and care that Mom needs, consider working together to secure home care services. Home health aides can help Mom with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing and eating, easing the emotional and physical burden of caregiving. You may also wish to start the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">search for a memory care community</a> that can best meet Mom’s needs.
Ultimately, when seeking to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">support your parents</a>, your presence may be the best gift you can offer.
“Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can feel very lonely at times, especially when shared memories begin to fade,” says Sadowsky-Emmerth.
<blockquote>Through regular phone calls and visits, you can ease Dad’s fear, frustration and loneliness and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">support both your parents</a> as they navigate life with Alzheimer’s.</blockquote>
<h3>About the Author</h3>
Robyn Tellefsen is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience and hundreds of bylined articles. Her work has appeared on Chase, MSN, OurParents, Parent Society, SoFi, The CollegeBound Network and others.
How have you supported your parent after an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis? We’d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">Adjusting to the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">How to Talk With a Parent About Dementia Symptoms</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-dementia/">6 Questions Every Family Should Ask When a Loved One Is Diagnosed With Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

Supporting the Other Parent After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis

When Mom is given an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis, she receives a great deal of attention and care. But what about Dad? After learning about his spouse’s diagnosis, he needs support, too. Jane Sadowsky-Emmerth, RN, associate clinical director of Partners in Care, a division of the Visiting Nurse Service of New York, speaks with us about how […]

Dementia symptoms start slowly and progress over time. Often, when memory lapses occur, they are mistaken for signs of aging. But when a parent or senior loved one is assessed by a physician for dementia, there are some questions that family members can ask to better understand the disease. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Questions-Every-Family-Should-Ask-When-a-Loved-One-Is-Diagnosed-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="6 Questions Every Family Should Ask When a Loved One Is Diagnosed With Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67989" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Questions-Every-Family-Should-Ask-When-a-Loved-One-Is-Diagnosed-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Questions-Every-Family-Should-Ask-When-a-Loved-One-Is-Diagnosed-With-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/6-Questions-Every-Family-Should-Ask-When-a-Loved-One-Is-Diagnosed-With-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read our list of the top six questions families should ask when a senior loved one is diagnosed with dementia.
<h2>6 Questions to Ask When a Loved One Is Diagnosed With Dementia</h2>
<h3>1. Does my loved one understand that he or she has been diagnosed with dementia?</h3>
According to A Place for Mom&#8217;s Alzheimer&#8217;s expert, <a href="https://www.aplaceformom.com/planning-and-advice/articles/alzheimers-expert" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Megan Carnarius</a>, in a <a href="https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2018-10-24/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-alzheimers-or-dementia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recent article</a>, 50% of people with dementia “don&#8217;t have any insight&#8221; and fail to understand the degree that their cognitive skills are impaired. She says, &#8220;A lot of people&#8230; mystify their loved ones by trying to force them to understand that they have memory loss instead of just moving on.&#8221;
<h3>2. How does dementia progress?</h3>
Once a parent or senior loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, people with the disease and their family members must learn what is in store for them. Dr. Susann Varano, a geriatrician in <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/connecticut/">Westport, Connecticut</a>, states in the <a href="https://health.usnews.com/health-care/patient-advice/articles/2018-10-24/questions-to-ask-when-a-loved-one-is-diagnosed-with-alzheimers-or-dementia" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">same article</a> that learning about “the typical course of this disease,” will help families get prepared on all levels, including emotionally, financially and physically.
Carnarius shares that family members will also need to get legal paperwork in order, assign a power of attorney for the future and make other important decisions.
<h3>3. Is the diagnosis that of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?</h3>
Alzheimer’s disease is one of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/difference-between-alzheimers-and-dementia/">several causes of dementia</a>. Dr. Varano explains that &#8220;If a physician says, &#8216;you have dementia,&#8217; it&#8217;s the same thing as saying, &#8216;you have cancer.'&#8221; She says it&#8217;s critical to identify exactly <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/types-of-dementia/">which type of dementia it is</a>. &#8220;Is it Lewy body dementia? Is it vascular?&#8221; etc. Some types of dementia progress faster than others, so it is vital to understand which type of dementia your senior loved one has, to be able to anticipate the course of the disease.
<h3>4. What do caregivers need to understand about dementia?</h3>
Asking what will be expected from you as a caregiver and becoming aware of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">caregiver and dementia resources</a> are two important points to focus on in the early diagnostic phase of the disease. Remember to not stop focusing on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/tips-for-finding-the-right-therapist-for-alzheimers-caregivers/">caring for yourself</a> as well as your parent or senior loved one.
<h3>5. What else could the diagnosis be?</h3>
According to Dr. Varano, many times a physician notes a senior patient with <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">memory problems</a>, then jumps too quickly to the assumption that it is possible dementia. &#8220;Dementia is a diagnosis of exclusion, so to be fair to the patient and to the caregiver, things have to be excluded.&#8221; She adds that other conditions, including side effects of medications, must be ruled out. Some conditions that mimic dementia symptoms may include:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-how-ptsd-can-lead-to-alzheimers/">Depression</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-06-17-sleep-disorders-signify-alzheimers-parkinsons/">Insomnia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-dementia-caregivers-should-know-about-vitamin-b12-and-folate/">Low B12 Levels</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/half-of-women-will-develop-dementia-parkinsons-disease-or-a-stroke/">Parkinson&#8217;s disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/foods-that-induce-memory-loss/">Thyroid problems</a></li>
</ul>
Family members should also ensure that their senior loved one receives the Mini-Mental State Examination — a test that is considered the gold standard in helping to diagnose dementia.
<h3>6. What steps are next after a senior is diagnosed with dementia?</h3>
One of the most important considerations after a parent or senior loved one is diagnosed with dementia should be when and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/caring-for-someone-with-dementia/">where they will receive the best care</a>. Senior living options include:
<ul>
<li>An assisted living community</li>
<li>In-home care</li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">Memory care</a></li>
<li>Long-term care (skilled nursing)</li>
</ul>
Depending on the stage of dementia, family members may select different levels of care for their senior loved one.
Are you a caregiver who has been with a parent or senior loved one when they were diagnosed with dementia? What questions did you ask their physician? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">Dementia: Stages, Symptoms and Treatment Options for the Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-to-talk-with-a-parent-about-dementia-symptoms/">How to Talk With a Parent About Dementia Symptoms</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/tips-for-dealing-with-a-parent-who-denies-dementia/">Top Tips for Dealing With a Parent Who Denies Dementia Symptoms</a></li>
</ul>

6 Questions Every Family Should Ask When a Loved One Is Diagnosed With Dementia

Dementia symptoms start slowly and progress over time. Often, when memory lapses occur, they are mistaken for signs of aging. But when a parent or senior loved one is assessed by a physician for dementia, there are some questions that family members can ask to better understand the disease. Read our list of the top […]

Last Updated: February 6, 2019
Caring for someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease is a difficult job, one that can cause caregivers a great amount of stress. However, if you love someone with dementia, you know that the position can also bring joy into your life and be extremely rewarding as well.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/02/20-Things-to-Remember-If-You-Love-Someone-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="20 Things to Remember If You Love Someone With Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67448" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/02/20-Things-to-Remember-If-You-Love-Someone-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/02/20-Things-to-Remember-If-You-Love-Someone-With-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/02/20-Things-to-Remember-If-You-Love-Someone-With-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
In honor of the upcoming Valentine&#8217;s Day holiday, here are 20 things to remember when <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/celebrating-valentines-day-with-a-loved-one-with-dementia/">caring for a loved one with dementia</a>.
<h2>Caregiving and Loving Someone With Dementia</h2>
Over 16 million people in the United States alone <a style="color: #0782c1" href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.alzheimers.gov/coping.html">care for someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s or dementia</a>. While the caregiving journey can be rewarding, it is no secret that it can also be overwhelmingly challenging.
As the disease progresses, it becomes easier to forget that your loved one is still present. Many caregivers are frustrated by their loved one&#8217;s inability to communicate their thoughts and their inability to remember faces and names. The disease eventually takes away independence so that caregivers become the feet, hands and mind of people struggling with dementia.
Many people who have the disease struggle with depression and some can become violent, further increasing frustration for caregivers. But, despite all these challenges, if you <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-13-15-promise-to-loved-one-alzheimers/">care for and love someone with dementia</a>, it can be extremely rewarding and although it may not be obvious, your loved one is still there, behind the disease.
<h2>20 Things To Remember If You Love Someone With Dementia</h2>
Here are 20 things to remember when you love someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s:
<ol>
<li>Be educated about the disease. <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/resources/">Learning as much as you can</a> about the progression of dementia can help you empathize with and understand your loved one.</li>
<li>Be realistic in your expectations for yourself and your loved one. Set realistic goals and learn to expect the unexpected. Don&#8217;t set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic expectations as your loved one struggles with Alzheimer&#8217;s.</li>
<li>Develop predictable routines and schedules. As the disease progresses it is more important than ever to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/checklist-and-daily-care-plan-for-dementia/">have set routines and schedules</a>. This can help to eliminate confusion and frustration for your loved one.</li>
<li>Do not argue with your loved one. Arguing with your loved one about a forgotten memory will only upset them and further frustrate you. Be willing to let most things go.</li>
<li>Don&#8217;t underestimate the power of good nutrition. Studies have linked dementia to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/7-22-15-lifestyle-changes-help-reduce-risk-of-dementia/">lifestyle choices</a>, including poor nutrition. Limiting refined sugars and increasing vegetables can help manage behavioral issues.</li>
<li>Give them independence when possible. As tempting as it may be to do everything for your loved one, it is important for them to do as many things as possible by himself or herself, even if you need to start the activity.</li>
<li>Have fun! Your loved one can still have fun. Trips to local museums, parks and even the zoo can be <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-06/stimulating-activities-for-alzheimers-patients/">enjoyed by someone with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>.</li>
<li>Maintain a current list of medications and dosages of medications. This will ensure you always know when their next dose of medication will be and you will be able to accurately share any medication information with doctors or other caregivers.</li>
<li>Meet your loved one in the now. Don&#8217;t try to change your loved one back into the person they once were. Grieve the loss of your loved one and then <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-progression-of-alzheimers/">love them as they are right now</a>.</li>
<li>Plan daily time for physical exercise. It&#8217;s important to focus on the health of your mind, but also your body during this time. Physical exercise can help, especially if you plan time for it each day.</li>
<li>Rely on family members and other loved ones when needed. After everything you have done to support your loved one with dementia, remember that you also need <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">support for yourself</a> as well. Turn to family members and other loved ones when you need them.</li>
<li>Remember that an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis is not a death sentence. Many people with the disease live more than 20 years following diagnosis. Take advantage of the time you have left with your loved one.</li>
<li>Remember that your loved one can remember emotions even after they forget the actual event that caused those emotions. Your <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-10-14-emotions-after-memory-loss/">actions and words</a> matter!</li>
<li>Remember the person is more than the disease. When someone is diagnosed with dementia, it can be devastating to them and their loved ones. Hold on to who you know they are, before the diagnosis.</li>
<li>Take a deep breath! <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-reasons-why-alzheimers-and-dementia-caregivers-are-so-stressed/">Caregiving is a big responsibility</a> but you are doing a great job.</li>
<li>Take care of yourself. When caregivers do not care for themselves they can experience caregiver burnout. Be sure to take a few minutes to yourself every day and join a local or online caregiver support group.</li>
<li>Take immediate action to complete essential documents, like <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-25/alzheimers-power-of-attorney/">living wills</a>.</li>
<li>The disease is responsible for their mood and personality changes. It can be so hard to watch a loved one change before your eyes. Remember that they are not changing, but the disease is progressing.</li>
<li>Understand your own emotional and physical limitations. Act accordingly to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/balance-life-as-an-alzheimers-caregiver/">avoid caregiver burnout</a>.</li>
<li>Use every method of communication to reach your loved one through the disease. Art, music and reading are all ways to connect with your loved one when verbal expression is no longer an option. Even a simple touch on their arm can help communicate that they are loved.</li>
</ol>
Do you have any other things to remember if you love someone with dementia, that you&#8217;d like to add to our list? We&#8217;d love to hear your suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-13-15-promise-to-loved-one-alzheimers/">A Valentine&#8217;s Day Promise to a Loved One with Alzheimer&#8217;s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/celebrating-valentines-day-with-a-loved-one-with-dementia/">Celebrating Valentine’s Day With a Loved One With Dementia</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2016-02-10/coping-with-memory-loss/">Love and Dementia: How to Support a Couple Coping With Memory Loss</a></li>
</ul>

20 Things to Remember If You Love Someone With Dementia

Last Updated: February 6, 2019 Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is a difficult job, one that can cause caregivers a great amount of stress. However, if you love someone with dementia, you know that the position can also bring joy into your life and be extremely rewarding as well. In honor of the upcoming Valentine’s Day […]

If you are a family member, friend or spouse of a loved one with dementia, you may be wondering what the best way is to celebrate Valentine&#8217;s Day. Though the day may come with its challenges, there are still ways that you can celebrate with the one you love. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Celebrating-Valentines-Day-With-a-Loved-One-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg" alt="Celebrating Valentine&#039;s Day With a Loved One With Dementia" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68224" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Celebrating-Valentines-Day-With-a-Loved-One-With-Dementia-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Celebrating-Valentines-Day-With-a-Loved-One-With-Dementia-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Celebrating-Valentines-Day-With-a-Loved-One-With-Dementia.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Read a caregiver&#8217;s Valentine&#8217;s Day story and see our tips on how to make the day special for your loved one with dementia.
<h2>A Caregiver&#8217;s Valentine&#8217;s Day</h2>
Carol Bradley Bursack, author, columnist, consultant and speaker, wrote in a recent <a href="https://www.agingcare.com/articles/celebrating-holidays-when-someone-has-alzheimers-or-dementia-149280.htm">Aging Care</a> article, “Cards and flowers were a big deal to my parents, especially on their anniversary and Valentine&#8217;s Day. Sadly, after Dad&#8217;s brain surgery threw him into dementia, it was obvious that he would no longer be able to actively participate.”
Bursack adds, “I knew [that] if he could make that decision, Dad would want to give Mom a card and flowers. I knew Mom would want to do the same for him. The only problem was, neither of them can arrange for flowers to be delivered or choose a card&#8230; Dad couldn&#8217;t even understand what the celebration was about.
<blockquote>She continues, “How do we <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-11-15-loving-someone-with-dementia/">celebrate special occasions</a> when one or more of the people involved can&#8217;t participate? Do we follow through or do we pretend the special day doesn&#8217;t exist?”</blockquote>
<h2>New Ways to Celebrate the Holiday</h2>
Although traditional holiday celebrations may need to be tweaked a bit for a loved one&#8217;s dementia, it’s very important to continue to commemorate holidays. Even if you don’t usually celebrate, it is the perfect time to start devoting at least one special day each year for <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-13-15-promise-to-loved-one-alzheimers/">family Valentine&#8217;s Day traditions</a>.
There are Valentine’s cards written specifically for adult children and grandchildren to give to their elders and many resources online offering recipes for making a brain-healthy Valentine’s Day dinner, as well as other ideas on how to celebrate. Bursack explains that she tried to emulate the ways her parents traditionally celebrated Valentine’s Day.
“I did what I could. I&#8217;d buy them cards to give to each other and order flowers from an understanding florist&#8230; on the special day, I&#8217;d take Mom to Dad&#8217;s room and I&#8217;d squat down by Dad&#8217;s chair and try to wake him. Mom would give Dad his card and I&#8217;d show it to him and read it, making it a big production. Understanding that something was expected of him, he&#8217;d generally nod his head and try to smile.”
<blockquote>“I&#8217;d put the card for Mom into his hand and guide it to her. In this way, <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2016-02-10/coping-with-memory-loss/">they&#8217;d exchange cards and sometimes gifts</a>,” Bursack explains.</blockquote>
Although some people would, no doubt, question the motivation for continuing to have holiday celebrations with a person with dementia, Bursack says that in the end, celebrating brought some much-needed satisfaction when she faced all of the losses that encompassed having a parent with dementia.
“I will admit to agony in my heart as I went through the whole process. I felt powerless to help my parents with the losses they had suffered. Yet, strangely, there was gratification in the routine. I felt, momentarily at least, as though I was doing all I could for them,” she states.
“People with dementia are still alive. In my mind, it serves a purpose to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-22-17-keeping-love-alive-throughout-alzheimers/">honor their years of love and marriage</a> on these special days, even if some of the processes seem fruitless at times. In the case of my parents, we knew what was in Dad&#8217;s heart. So, painful as the process of putting on a little celebration was, it would have been more painful to ignore the days. Family participation helped make the days special for my parents to whatever extent was possible,” says Bursack.
How do you plan on celebrating the holiday with a parent, spouse or senior loved one this year? We&#8217;d like to hear more about your Valentine&#8217;s Day plans in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-13-15-promise-to-loved-one-alzheimers/">A Valentine’s Day Promise to a Loved One with Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-22-17-keeping-love-alive-throughout-alzheimers/">“Keeping Love Alive” Throughout Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2-11-15-loving-someone-with-dementia/">20 Things to Remember If You Love Someone with Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

Celebrating Valentine's Day With a Loved One With Dementia

If you are a family member, friend or spouse of a loved one with dementia, you may be wondering what the best way is to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Though the day may come with its challenges, there are still ways that you can celebrate with the one you love. Read a caregiver’s Valentine’s Day story and […]

Last Updated: February 1, 2019
How diet affects Alzheimer’s disease has been proven time again. Now, a recent study conducted by Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences examines vitamin B and it&#8217;s role in slowing down the progression of the disease.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Vitamin-B-Slows-Alzheimers-Progression-300x158.jpg" alt="How Vitamin B Slows Alzheimer’s Progression" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68359" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Vitamin-B-Slows-Alzheimers-Progression-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/How-Vitamin-B-Slows-Alzheimers-Progression.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 
Learn more about Vitamin B – found in foods like cereals, dairy and fish – and its impact on Alzheimer&#8217;s progression.
<h2>Can Vitamin B Slow Alzheimer&#8217;s Progression?</h2>
Vitamin B was once thought to be a single vitamin but we now know that it is actually <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-dementia-caregivers-should-know-about-vitamin-b12-and-folate/">a group of substances</a> that are not chemically related but are often found in the same foods.
This group of water-soluble vitamins plays an important role in cell metabolism and includes the vitamins:
<ul>
<li>Biotin</li>
<li>Cobalamins</li>
<li>Folic acid</li>
<li>Niacin</li>
<li>Pantothenic acid</li>
<li>Pyridoxine</li>
<li>Riboflavin</li>
<li>Thiamin</li>
</ul>
The main role of Vitamin B is to keep cells healthy and prevent anemia.
Recently, a study from <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23690582" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23690582">Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences</a> has found another benefit of vitamin B. The study included over 150 seniors who had mild cognitive impairment and were at high risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. Some participants received a vitamin B supplement while others received a placebo pill. Researchers observed the amount of <a href="http://naturalsociety.com/upping-b-vitamins-slow-alzheimers-progression/" data-cke-saved-href="http://naturalsociety.com/upping-b-vitamins-slow-alzheimers-progression/">grey matter</a> in the brain over two years through MRI technology in both groups. Grey matter in the brain shrinks with the development of cognitive decline.
<blockquote>While both groups had grey matter shrink over the two-year span, those taking the vitamin B supplement had less grey matter shrinkage than the placebo group.</blockquote>
The study abstract concluded that the “results show that vitamin B supplementation can <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/superfoods-that-fight-alzheimers/">slow the atrophy of specific brain regions</a> that are a key component of the Alzheimer&#8217;s process and that are associated with cognitive decline.”
<h2>Ways to Include Vitamin B in Your Diet</h2>
New research points to two specific types of vitamin B that may play a role in slowing Alzheimer&#8217;s progression:
<ol>
<li>Vitamin B-3: An additional study found that <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320879.php" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320879.php">vitamin B-3</a>, also known as nicotinamide, reversed Alzheimer’s related memory loss in mice. The research team found that nicotinamide riboside (NR), a form of vitamin B-3, helped the brain to repair DNA, a function of the brain that is damaged by Alzheimer’s. Scientists added NR to water of mice that were genetically engineered to develop symptoms of Alzheimer’s. After three months, their brains and cognitive health were similar to the control mice.</li>
<li>Vitamin B-12: Another form of vitamin B that plays a role in cognitive health is <a href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/is-it-alzheimers-disease-or-vitamin-b12-deficiency-98738" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.verywellhealth.com/is-it-alzheimers-disease-or-vitamin-b12-deficiency-98738">vitamin B-12</a>. A deficiency in vitamin B-12 may mimic signs of Alzheimer’s like behavior changes, increased agitation and memory loss. Several studies have linked a vitamin B-12 deficiency with symptoms of Alzheimer’s and actual shrinkage of the brain.</li>
</ol>
Vitamin B is found in a variety of foods and not getting enough can have dangerous side effects.
You can try to <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">incorporate more of these foods in your diet</a> to ensure you are getting the vitamin B you need to stay healthy (with the approval of a physician):
<ul>
<li>Beans</li>
<li>Dairy</li>
<li>Eggs</li>
<li>Fish</li>
<li>Leafy green vegetables</li>
<li>Meat</li>
<li>Peas</li>
<li>Poultry</li>
<li>Some bread and cereals also have added vitamin B</li>
</ul>
Has a B supplement helped to slow Alzheimer&#8217;s progression in your parent or senior loved one? What are your favorite foods to eat that are rich in vitamin B? We&#8217;d like to hear from you in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/superfoods-that-fight-alzheimers/">Memory Boosting Superfoods That Fight Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-dementia-caregivers-should-know-about-vitamin-b12-and-folate/">What Dementia Caregivers Should Know About Vitamin B12 and Folate</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/what-experts-say-are-the-best-supplements-for-your-brain/">What the Experts Say Are the Best Supplements for Your Brain</a></li>
</ul>

How Vitamin B Slows Alzheimer’s Progression

Last Updated: February 1, 2019 How diet affects Alzheimer’s disease has been proven time again. Now, a recent study conducted by Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences examines vitamin B and it’s role in slowing down the progression of the disease. Learn more about Vitamin B – found in foods like cereals, dairy and fish – […]

First, there is the initial shock of the Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis. Your parent has the disease now and you have no idea what to expect. While you come to terms with the new reality of your parent’s illness, you will undoubtedly have questions about what is to come.<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-67260" src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Adjusting-to-the-Progression-of-Alzheimers-Disease-300x158.jpg" alt="Adjusting to the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease" width="300" height="158" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Adjusting-to-the-Progression-of-Alzheimers-Disease-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Adjusting-to-the-Progression-of-Alzheimers-Disease-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/06/Adjusting-to-the-Progression-of-Alzheimers-Disease.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
<h2>How to Adjust to the Progression of Alzheimer&#8217;s</h2>
Read on for our advice on how to adjust — both emotionally and practically — to the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">progression of the disease</a>:
<h3>Stages 1–3: Mild</h3>
There are seven stages of Alzheimer’s disease, ranging from normal brain health (Stage 1) to very severe (Stage 7). The Alzheimer’s Association reports that it takes an average of four to eight years — sometimes much longer — for an individual to progress from diagnosis to the final stage.
The very mild stage (Stage 2) is not much different from normal signs of aging. Dad may have forgotten why he walked into a room or Mom may be regularly misplacing her glasses. But the increasing frequency of these occurrences is a sign of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">things to come</a>.
The mild memory loss (Stage 3) will become more worrisome. Your parent may forget to keep appointments, have difficulty remembering people&#8217;s names, become increasingly confused and lose the thread of conversation.
How You Can Help:
As your parent adjusts to living with Alzheimer’s, they may insist they don’t need help. It’s still a good idea to check in more often and be available when they do need your assistance. Encourage your parent to get all of their legal paperwork in order, such as creating an advance directive, designating general durable and healthcare powers of attorney, preparing HIPAA authorization forms and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/4-20-16-person-with-dementia-draft-will/">updating their will</a> to ensure it is done in accordance with their wishes.
Also, make sure to savor your time together. Go out to dinner. Host a family reunion. Take in a ballgame or play. Don’t put off until tomorrow the good times you can have today.
<h3>Stage 4: Moderate</h3>
A moderate decline is when <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">Alzheimer’s begins to have a major effect on your parent’s life</a>. You may notice that Dad gets lost driving to once-familiar places or Mom is having lapses in judgment. In some cases, memory lapses can be dangerous, such as forgetting to turn off the stove or leaving the water running in the bathtub.
Your parent may also begin experiencing changes in behavior. Dad might become depressed as the reality of the disease begins to sink in and Mom could become frustrated by her forgetfulness.
How You Can Help:
Assist your parent with regular tasks, such as buying groceries, cleaning the house, managing their medications and paying bills. If safety becomes an issue, arrange for in-home assistance.
Be kind and patient with your parent. Keep them active and energized by continuing to plan various activities that help them live in the now.
<h3>Stages 5-7: Severe</h3>
The last stages of Alzheimer’s are difficult for both the caregiver and parent. In a moderately severe decline (Stage 5), individuals experience greater confusion and forgetfulness and are at greater risk of wandering. Sometime between this stage and severe decline (Stage 6), they will need round-the-clock care and help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, getting dressed and eating.
Your parent will experience a very severe decline, including loss of mobility, the ability to speak and even the ability to swallow in (Stage 7) the final stage of the disease.
How You Can Help:
Do what you can to assist your parent, but recognize when you need to turn to others for help. Often families realize that a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/find-dementia-care/">memory care community</a> is the best place to meet a parent&#8217;s needs. Through these final stages, it’s important to be there for your loved one, holding their hand, offering comfort and love.
Don’t only take care of your parent — <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-reasons-why-alzheimers-and-dementia-caregivers-are-so-stressed/">also take care of yourself</a>. Talk to mental health professionals if you need help during this difficult time.
<h3>About the Author</h3>
Diane Franklin is a freelance writer and editor who writes regularly about senior living and healthcare. She has also written hundreds of articles for business and trade publications, including leading magazines for the credit union and retail paint industries.
Are you a caregiver who has had experience with the progression of Alzheimer’s? We&#8217;d like you to add your tips on how to compassionately and effectively face the disease in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/dementia-stages-symptoms-and-treatment-options/">Dementia: Stages, Symptoms and Treatment Options for the Disease</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-04-10/how-alzheimers-evolves/">How Alzheimer’s Evolves From Early to Late Stages</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/stages-of-alzheimers-disease/">What Are the 7 Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?</a></li>
</ul>

Adjusting to the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease

First, there is the initial shock of the Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Your parent has the disease now and you have no idea what to expect. While you come to terms with the new reality of your parent’s illness, you will undoubtedly have questions about what is to come. How to Adjust to the Progression of Alzheimer’s […]

Last Updated: January 28, 2019
Medicare is a federal health insurance program that covers &#8220;medically-necessary&#8221; costs, but the term can be confusing when it comes to eligibility for long-term care for people with Alzheimer&#8217;s disease in the United States.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Care-and-Medicare-What-You-Need-to-Know-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer&#039;s Care and Medicare: What You Need to Know" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68201" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Care-and-Medicare-What-You-Need-to-Know-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Care-and-Medicare-What-You-Need-to-Know-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Care-and-Medicare-What-You-Need-to-Know.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Does custodial care fall under a &#8220;medically necessary&#8221; expense? Learn more about Alzheimer&#8217;s care costs and Medicare.
<h2>Alzheimer&#8217;s Costs and Medicare</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s caregivers are no strangers to the costs of the disease. Alzheimer&#8217;s has devastating emotional and physical costs, but its financial costs are putting many families into medical debt. According to the 2018 Costs, Accountabilities, Realities and Expectations <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-cost-of-dementia-care/">(C.A.R.E.) </a>Study, the average Alzheimer&#8217;s care cost in 2018 was $273 per month, with 67% of caregivers polled reporting reducing their own living expenses to pay for costs associated with the disease.
<blockquote>The Alzheimer&#8217;s Association also estimates that the disease will <a href="https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cost the nation $277 billion this year</a>, with costs growing to $1.1 trillion by 2050.</blockquote>
Unfortunately, regardless of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-09-16-dementia-financial-costs-take-toll-on-families/">the rising costs of Alzheimer&#8217;s</a>, long-term care for people with the disease is usually considered an issue of custodial care, and thus, not covered under Medicare.
<h2>Custodial Care vs. &#8220;Medically Necessary&#8221; Care</h2>
According to <a href="https://pathfindersmedical.com/linda-adler/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Linda Adler</a>, CEO and Founder of Pathfinders Medical, a patient advocacy group, if the care is not considered &#8220;medically necessary&#8221; it will not be covered by Medicare.
Most people with Alzheimer&#8217;s need what Medicare calls &#8220;custodial care.&#8221; This kind of care is non-medical and aids the patient with cleaning, dressing, eating and other activities of daily living (ADLs). Adler says:
&#8220;There was a time when the family could come together and care for seniors at home. But families now are different in many ways, and often when <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/caring-for-someone-with-dementia/">patients are in need of basic care</a>, they are unable to get it from traditionally available sources.&#8221;
<h2>How to Plan for Future Care Costs</h2>
The disconnect between care needed and care covered can cause financial trouble and stress for families coping with an Alzheimer&#8217;s diagnosis. Adler suggests considering options and <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">making plans before long-term care becomes a necessity</a>.
<blockquote>&#8220;People need to understand long-term care insurance and Medicare, as well as the different types of coverage available and the different housing options within their communities.&#8221;</blockquote>
Other options for families include <a href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/financial-legal-planning/medicaid" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Medicaid for low-income patients</a> or private health insurance. Whatever option families choose should be planned for before the needs arise, giving families time to find the best and most affordable option for a parent or senior loved one. 
Are you a caregiver to a senior loved one? How do you cover long-term care costs associated with Alzheimer&#8217;s? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning">After Dementia: Financial and Legal Planning</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-09-16-dementia-financial-costs-take-toll-on-families/">How Dementia’s Financial Costs Take a Toll on Families</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/the-cost-of-dementia-care/">The Cost of Dementia Care in 2018</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's Care and Medicare: What You Need to Know

Last Updated: January 28, 2019 Medicare is a federal health insurance program that covers “medically-necessary” costs, but the term can be confusing when it comes to eligibility for long-term care for people with Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. Does custodial care fall under a “medically necessary” expense? Learn more about Alzheimer’s care costs and Medicare. Alzheimer’s Costs and Medicare […]

Last Updated: January 25, 2019
A study from the University of Utah suggests that people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s are more likely to seek expert financial advice and delay retirement than those who do not have a family history of the disease.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Awareness-Affects-Families-and-Finances-300x158.jpg" alt="Alzheimer&#039;s Awareness Affects Families and Finances" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68056" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Awareness-Affects-Families-and-Finances-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Awareness-Affects-Families-and-Finances-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Alzheimers-Awareness-Affects-Families-and-Finances.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /> 

Learn more about this study and why researchers believe an Alzheimer’s awareness correlation between families and finances exists.
<h2>Families and the Financial Burden of Alzheimer’s</h2>
Alzheimer&#8217;s can have a devastating <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">financial impact on families</a>. Many family caregivers have had to cut back on spending, dip into personal retirement savings and sell assets for disease expenses. Of the 15 million unpaid caregivers in the United States, two out of five have a household income of less than $50,000.
Recently, a <a href="https://alzheimersnewstoday.com/tag/family-impact-of-alzheimers-survey/" data-cke-saved-href="http://Family%20Impact%20of%20Alzheimer%E2%80%99s%20survey">Family Impact of Alzheimer’s survey</a> interviewed over 3,500 people, 500 of whom provided caregiving and/or financial aid to a parent or senior loved one with the disease.
The survey found that:
<ul>
<li>Nearly 50% of caregivers cut back on spending</li>
<li>20% went to the doctor less often</li>
<li>11% of caregivers failed to get their own medications</li>
<li>11% cut back on children’s educational expenses</li>
</ul>
<h2>Study Links Alzheimer’s Awareness to Increased Financial Planning</h2>
As the Alzheimer’s epidemic continues with no cure in sight, the <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-09-16-dementia-financial-costs-take-toll-on-families/">economic impact of the disease is making itself known</a> to caregivers and families.
A University of Utah study found that caring for a parent or senior loved one with Alzheimer’s can cost a family an average of $56,290 annually. The study also found that people with a <a href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/alzheimers-link-leads-to-more-financial-planning-1446433525" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/alzheimers-link-leads-to-more-financial-planning-1446433525">family history of the disease are more likely to seek financial advice</a> and postpone retirement than those without a family history of Alzheimer’s.
The study, sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and submitted to the American Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias, concluded that:
<ul>
<li>Study participants with a family history of Alzheimer’s were 85% more likely to seek advice from financial professionals</li>
<li>Participants were also 40% less likely to retire before the age of 65 as compared to participants who did not have a family history of the disease</li>
</ul>
Cathleen Zick, an author of the study and a Professor of Family and Consumer Studies at the University of Utah, has been taking a closer look at the correlation between Alzheimer’s awareness and increased financial planning.
Zick believes that everyone, especially those facing an increased risk of serious disease, needs a <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/managing-finances-for-a-parent-with-alzheimers/">realistic projection of financial needs in retirement</a> and a plan to meet those needs. She states, “People with low confidence about their financial situation in retirement should be proactive and that would be a sea change in our culture.”
The same authors of the study also published an additional report in the <a href="http://jah.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/01/06/0898264314565330.abstract" data-cke-saved-href="http://jah.sagepub.com/content/early/2015/01/06/0898264314565330.abstract">Journal of Aging and Health</a> stating that they believe “It is likely that the link between family health histories and retirement confidence will intensify.”
Have you seen a link between increased Alzheimer&#8217;s awareness and financial planning? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning">After Dementia: Financial and Legal Planning</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/5-09-16-dementia-financial-costs-take-toll-on-families/">How Dementia’s Financial Costs Take a Toll on Families</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/managing-finances-for-a-parent-with-alzheimers/">Managing Finances for a Parent With Alzheimer’s</a></li>
</ul>

Alzheimer's Awareness Affects Families and Finances

Last Updated: January 25, 2019 A study from the University of Utah suggests that people who have a family history of Alzheimer’s are more likely to seek expert financial advice and delay retirement than those who do not have a family history of the disease. Learn more about this study and why researchers believe an […]

Last Updated: January 23, 2019
Assisting a parent or senior loved one in planning for the future with dementia can be difficult, but it is necessary. Time is of the essence and the more time that passes after a dementia diagnosis means there is less time for that person to participate in the planning process. <img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-a-Person-With-Dementia-Draft-a-Will-300x158.jpg" alt="Can a Person With Dementia Draft a Will?" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68219" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-a-Person-With-Dementia-Draft-a-Will-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-a-Person-With-Dementia-Draft-a-Will-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/Can-a-Person-With-Dementia-Draft-a-Will.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about how a person who has dementia can draft a will and make legal plans for the future before it&#8217;s too late.
<h2>A Future With Dementia</h2>
<a href="http://www.alz.org/facts/">There are currently more than five million people living with dementia</a> in the United States. Unfortunately, and even more devastating, is that dementia not only affects those living with the disease but also costs their caregivers, children and families more than $5,000 a year and 18.1 billion hours of unpaid care.
Although nothing will change the emotional and financial impact of the disease, there are ways to plan for a future with dementia that may make you and your loved one&#8217;s lives less complicated. Learning how to draft a will and make estate and legal <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">plans for the future</a> will allow you and your parent to spend more time enjoying the moments that you have left together, without worrying about estate planning and legal affairs on top of the disease.
Continue reading to find more information about how someone with dementia can draft a will, in addition to using our dementia planning checklist to assist you in planning health and long-term care, and on <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/guardianship-for-parent-with-alzheimers/">making decisions on behalf of your parent with dementia</a>.
<h2>Can a Person With Dementia Draft a Will?</h2>
No one knows when dementia will change or impact our lives and many of us do not have our affairs in order when the disease is diagnosed. Fortunately, there may still be time to draft a will and make other estate and legal plans with loved ones and parents before time runs out.
A person who has dementia can draft a will, if certain criteria are met and if they are deemed to have legal capacity or understand the importance and meaning of what is being signed. But, it is important to remember that <a href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/qa/c/1631314/can-a-person-with-dementia-draft-a-will">standards for capacity vary from state to state</a>.
Before a parent or senior loved one with the disease drafts a will or signs a legal document, however, the <a href="https://www.alz.org/national/documents/brochure_legalplans.pdf">Alzheimer&#8217;s Association recommends</a> to:
<ul>
<li>Ask for medical advice. A doctor can better determine the level of mental capacity of your loved one</li>
<li>Take inventory of existing documents. Determine which estate and legal documents have been signed before your parent was diagnosed with dementia, and decide if updates need to be made</li>
<li>Talk with your senior loved one. Finally, discuss the document with your loved one and the consequences and implications of signing it</li>
</ul>
<h2>Dementia Planning Checklist</h2>
Although it can be difficult to discuss health and long-term care — and eventually <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/guardianship-for-parent-with-alzheimers/">guardianship, if a parent or person with dementia reaches a point when they are unable to make informed decisions</a> — it is of the utmost importance to do so, to avoid a crisis. &#8220;No one likes to talk about end-of-life care,&#8221; says Kim Boyer, founder of Boyer Law Group:
<blockquote>&#8220;The majority of clients who come to us are dealing with a current crisis for which there&#8217;s been no preparation.&#8221;</blockquote>
Boyer&#8217;s <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">dementia planning</a> checklist could help you and your loved one with dementia consider the course of action and plan that is best for you and your family during this time:
<h3>1. Discuss needs and wants with family.</h3>
Does your parent or senior loved one want to live with family during this time, or want anything but that? Have you discussed <a href="http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/documents-preparedfamilies-cant-ignore/">advanced directives</a> and healthcare needs and wants? What about finances and inheritance?
<h3>2. Make financial preparations.</h3>
Does your parent have assets and liabilities? Have any <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">legal documents already been executed and prepared</a>? What about long-term care insurance?
<h3>3. Obtain legal representation.</h3>
Does your loved one with dementia know about obtaining legal representation? Have you appointed a power of attorney for health care or finances? What about <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-25/alzheimers-power-of-attorney/">legal guardianship</a>?
A dementia diagnosis is overwhelming, but drafting a will and preparing these legal documents early on in the disease can save you and your family precious time before it has any more of an effect on life.
Have you had experience legal planning for a family member with dementia? We&#8217;d like to hear your stories in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/8-21-14-dementia-financial-and-legal-planning/">After Dementia: Financial and Legal Planning</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/11-30-2015-alzheimers-awareness-affects-families-finances/">Alzheimer&#8217;s Awareness Affects Families and Finances</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/2014-03-25/alzheimers-power-of-attorney/">Things to Know About Alzheimer&#8217;s Power of Attorney</a></li>
</ul>

Can a Person With Dementia Draft a Will?

Last Updated: January 23, 2019 Assisting a parent or senior loved one in planning for the future with dementia can be difficult, but it is necessary. Time is of the essence and the more time that passes after a dementia diagnosis means there is less time for that person to participate in the planning process. Learn more […]

There are approximately 16 million unpaid caregivers caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in the United States. With the incidence of dementia expected to double over the coming decades, the number of dementia caregivers will also increase.<img src="https://img.prod.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Reasons-Why-Alzheimers-and-Dementia-Caregivers-Are-So-Stressed-300x158.jpg" alt="The Reasons Why Alzheimer&#039;s and Dementia Caregivers Are So Stressed" width="300" height="158" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-68426" srcset="https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Reasons-Why-Alzheimers-and-Dementia-Caregivers-Are-So-Stressed-300x158.jpg 300w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Reasons-Why-Alzheimers-and-Dementia-Caregivers-Are-So-Stressed-768x404.jpg 768w, https://img.dev.aplaceformom.com/main/uploads/alz/2019/07/The-Reasons-Why-Alzheimers-and-Dementia-Caregivers-Are-So-Stressed.jpg 1024w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />
Learn more about the caregiving burden in the U.S. and how the disease places a significant financial, mental and physical strain on dementia caregivers.
<h2>The Significant Stress Placed on Dementia Caregivers</h2>
Nancy Daly is no stranger to <a href="http://time.com/5434345/alzheimers-caregivers-struggle/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">caregiver stress</a>. She cared for her late mother who had dementia for more than two years, regularly flying from her home in California to her mother in Maryland. “It was as if my entire childhood was erased when she did not know me. But I had to grit my teeth and bear it. It was my job to be there.”
<a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-the-effectiveness-of-supportive-care-approaches-for-dementia/">Dementia caregivers</a> have reported higher levels of stress than other unpaid caregivers, most likely due to the progressive nature of the disease which eventually calls for around-the-clock care.
<blockquote>Elena Fazio, a health scientist administrator at the National Institute on Aging says, “There’s not an opportunity for respite. [People with dementia] have a host of behavioral symptoms that make it more complicated.” She also notes that caregivers have to worry about the mental and physical safety of their loved one and that the nature of the disease increases the risk for anxiety and depression.</blockquote>
A survey by the <a href="http://www.apnorc.org/news-media/Pages/AP-NORC-Poll-Adult-caregivers-overwhelmed-and-undertrained.aspx" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="http://www.apnorc.org/news-media/Pages/AP-NORC-Poll-Adult-caregivers-overwhelmed-and-undertrained.aspx" rel="noopener noreferrer">Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research</a> also found that 33% of caregivers struggle to maintain their own health and have skipped personal doctor visits because of caregiving duties. This is especially problematic, given that 34% of dementia caregivers are 65 or older.
In addition to the mental and physical stress of dementia caregiving, there is also financial stress. Being a caregiver is incredibly expensive and can have a negative impact on career development. In fact, a survey from <a href="https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/sites/default/files/2018-09/A_New_Frontier_In_Paid_Leave.pdf" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/sites/default/files/2018-09/A_New_Frontier_In_Paid_Leave.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer">USAgainstAlzheimer’s</a> found that 60% of dementia caregivers reported financial problems because of their caregiving role.
<h2>Ways to Respond to the Caregiver Burden</h2>
The evidence of a heavy burden for dementia caregivers is overwhelming. However, there are <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">things caregivers can do to help relieve stress</a>.
A study in the <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6008507/" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6008507/">Alzheimer’s and Dementia</a> journal found that emotional-awareness and mindfulness training can ease caregiver stress. The National Institutes of Health is also examining the effects of <a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">stress management training</a> and how it can reduce depression and even increase caregivers’ mental health.
Ruth Drew is a counselor who oversees the <a href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://www.alz.org/help-support/resources/helpline" rel="noopener noreferrer">Alzheimer’s Association caregiver hotline</a>. She states that sometimes just talking about the difficulties that come from caregiving can be “life-giving and lifesaving.”
<blockquote>“There’s nothing like talking to somebody else who’s been where you are.”</blockquote>
How do you cope with caregiving stress in your life? In what other ways can dementia caregivers handle stress? We&#8217;d like to hear your suggestions in the comments below.
Related Articles:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/how-caregiver-education-days-could-help-families-address-alzheimers/">How “Caregiver Education Days” Could Help Families Address Alzheimer’s</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/internet-based-resources-and-support-for-dementia-caregivers/">Internet-Based Resources and Support for Dementia Caregivers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.alzheimers.net/study-shows-the-effectiveness-of-supportive-care-approaches-for-dementia/">Study Shows the Effectiveness of Supportive Care Approaches for Dementia</a></li>
</ul>

The Reasons Why Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregivers Are So Stressed

There are approximately 16 million unpaid caregivers caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in the United States. With the incidence of dementia expected to double over the coming decades, the number of dementia caregivers will also increase. Learn more about the caregiving burden in the U.S. and how the disease places a significant financial, […]

Our Blog