Anna Carlton, Owner, Free Elder Care Video Series at http://www.hhdallas.com. You can call Home Helpers of Dallas at 972-233-6636 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              972-233-6636      end_of_the_skype_highlighting, or you can email us at info@hhdallas.com

Understanding the Stages of Alzheimers Disease in Richardson, Texas

by Anna Carlton

The Alzheimers Association suggests one in eight baby boomers will be stricken with the illness at some point in life. While hopefully the mind-robbing disease will pass us by, we do suggest people become familiar with the signs and symptoms of dementia. Equally important, baby boomers and their families should consider the implications and prepare themselves just in case.

Since Alzheimers affects a persons start by understanding the three primary aspects of cognitive function:

1.  Awareness has to do with interest, concentration, and consciousness. For example, people tend not to pay much attention to subjects that dont interest them.
   

2.  Memory involves the ability of a person to store, retain and recall information. As we age, it often takes longer to remember names and details.
   

3.  Intelligence has to do with knowledge accumulated over the years and the ability to solve problems and make decisions. With age, choices may not be as intuitive or obvious.
   

So what are some signs and symptoms of normal aging (Stage 1) and of dementia? With age, many people experience very mild cognitive decline and TOT experiences (Stage 2). TOT stands for Tip of the Tongue. For example, people forget words, names, where they put the keys, and what they went to the kitchen to get. These things tend to be more annoying than compromising.

The next stage (Stage 3) is where there are noticeable problems with concentration and memory. People also find it increasingly challenging to learn, remember, plan and organize. When there is a discernable change in cognitive function, it is wise to see a medical professional. Up to this point, most people are able to live and function independently.

For the next two stages (4 and 5), people tend to need supervision and benefit from frequent assistance. People are less aware of recent and current events. There is diminished ability to handle complex tasks, such as process and follow instruction, handle independent living activities, and manage finances, and personal care activities become increasingly challenging. During these stages, people may seem withdrawn, have trouble with details, and repeatedly ask questions.

For the final two stages (6 and 7), safety becomes a primary concern, and people need on going assistance with functional and medical needs. It is at this point that personality changes become noticeable, wandering becomes a concern, and compulsive and repetitive behaviors become apparent. Especially challenging for many people is that the faces and names of family become unfamiliar. With late-stage Alzheimers or dementia, appearance, movement, speech and other challenges occur.

So what are some implications and why is it important for people to be prepared? A primary concern for family is that they often find themselves taking on the role of family caregiver. The responsibilities of caring for a person with dementia affects all aspects of life. In addition to providing physical and emotional support, many families will find themselves providing financial assistance.

We suggest that families acknowledge that everyone is at risk for developing Alzheimers or another dementing disease. We encourage conversations to help clarify a persons wishes and find out what he or she might want family to do should driving, preparing meals, managing finances or handling independent living activities become a concern. Also, discuss expectations, roles and responsibilities. Remember, it is much easier to carry out a persons wishes when you know what his or her wishes are. For more information on responding to a diagnosis of dementia or on resources to support families faced with the disease, visit www.hhdallas.com or call 972-233-6636.