Having Alzheimer’s may feel like the end of the world. Yes, it is a terminal disease and no, there is not a cure for it just yet. Memory loss is the most significant sign and symptom people think about when they hear the word ‘Alzheimer’s.’ Hiring Alzheimer’s home care providers can help a loved one going through this diagnosis and work with them as they have a special understanding of the situation.
At the time of diagnosis, family members and friends may have realized something was amiss. The individual may have repeatedly forgotten appointments or conversations they had with friends and family, even just earlier that day.
Even though that elderly person who has recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s may very well be able to tend to their own care, still, at this moment, things will change. The disease will progress and the challenges will increase.
Right now, shortly after diagnosis, is the perfect time to focus on exercising the brain. While mental exercise has been reported to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, it isn’t going to turn things around once a person has developed this disease. However, according to some research (Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation), mental stimulation early in the disease’s progression can help slow down memory loss in the future.
One way to encourage mental stimulation now.
November is Family Stories Month and it is a great reminder that each one of us has many memories built up over the course of a lifetime, whether we are in our 20s, 40s, 60s, or 80s.
Many of these memories are captured in either old photographs, digital pictures, diaries, journals, and even letters and cards we may have saved from loved ones in the past. An old high school yearbook can bring somebody back to a time they haven’t thought about in decades.
Family and friends have a great opportunity to help this individual diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. They can ask him or her to begin recounting moments of their past life, going through old photo albums, and encouraging them to share the memories they have about those moments in life.
What if the senior is reluctant to do that right now?
Never pressure somebody to try and recall a lifetime of memories. They could be frightened. They could be worried about the things they remember or, more likely, worried about the things they forgot.
When a person is dealing with Alzheimer’s, they understand full well what is happening to their mental faculties. They also recognize how things are going to change in the future, how they will likely forget — even for a few short moments at first — the people who are most important in their life.
Why would they want to expose themselves to these challenges now? The best thing anyone can do if an aging senior is reluctant to look through old photo albums and talk about their life is to be patient.
Show genuine interest. After all, you may never hear some of these stories again, and they can be wonderful gifts to pass down to your own children, grandchildren, and other family members who want to keep track of their family history.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Alzheimer’s Home Care Services in Clearfield PA please contact the caring staff at Quality Health Services today. 814-251-9044
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