When someone gets diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s scary because they know they’re going to experience a lot of changes in the next few years. Many of those changes they won’t be able to control, either. Alzheimer’s disease is progressive, which means that it gradually gets worse over time. There’s no known cure, and the condition affects a person’s memory, thinking, and behavior. Understanding the different stages of the illness helps families prepare and Alzheimer’s care providers can help support families and Alzheimer’s patients as they cope with these changes.
Mild Alzheimer’s Disease
The early stages of Alzheimer’s disease bring changes, but people are often still able to function independently. They may feel more comfortable having elder care providers around, which also helps them to become used to having help there when they do need it. Seniors tend to experience memory lapses and a little bit of trouble with everyday tasks. They may misplace items and have trouble remembering recent events. This stage can last quite a long time.
Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease
As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, the symptoms people experience can become more severe. They may start to have more difficulty with daily tasks they used to do without any trouble at all. This stage is also when behavioral changes like increased agitation and mood swings may start to become more common. Patients at this stage may need more hands-on care every day. Alzheimer’s care providers assist with activities of daily living like getting dressed, eating regularly, and showering. These are the types of daily care needs that help people with Alzheimer’s feel more comfortable and stay healthy. Elder care also watches out for signs of safety hazards so that they can keep seniors safer at home.
Severe Alzheimer’s Disease
In the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease, people lose a lot more of their independence. They may have more trouble communicating and even moving well. Patients at this stage may experience weakened immune systems, leaving them more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Alzheimer’s care services are especially valuable during this stage of Alzheimer’s, helping with hands-on care needs as well as emotional support and education for family members.
How Alzheimer’s Care Helps
Professional caregivers who have experience with helping Alzheimer’s patients offer specialized care and support that helps to address the unique challenges that people with Alzheimer’s disease face. They help with daily activities, can assist families around the clock, and offer compassionate assistance families need. Alzheimer’s care providers also help families to find the resources they need to cope with the changes they’re seeing and experiencing.
Preparing for the Future
The biggest goal for families to have when they care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is to put a plan in place for the future. It can be tough to know what to include in that plan, however, and Alzheimer’s care services can help. They understand what families and Alzheimer’s patients need and can help families to find the resources they need.
Alzheimer’s is a complicated condition that requires a great deal of support and understanding. Families can rely on Alzheimer’s care providers to help them with the hands-on care that their family members need as well as with compassionate education and support as they learn to cope with the illness.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s care in Portage, MI, please contact the caring staff at Fresh Perspective Home Care today. Call (269) 329-4717.
Fresh Perspective Home Care is a trusted non-medical senior home care provider in Kalamazoo, Portage, Mattawan, Richland, Vicksburg, Schoolcraft, Three Rivers, Gull Lake, Yorkville and Otsego, Michigan.
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