What is Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive illness affecting the brain and the lives of those with it and those around them. Hope Hospice can provide compassionate care, support and services to those affected by Alzheimer’s.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s progresses in three stages; mild, moderate, and severe. In the mild stage, individuals may experience difficulty with tasks such as remembering names and appointments, as well as confusion and changes in personality. In the moderate stage, individuals have more memory loss, confusion, wandering, and inability to perform daily activities. In the severe stage, individuals require round the clock care.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is made based on an evaluation of the patient’s medical history, physical and neurological exam, lab and mental health tests, imaging, and other tests.
The goal of Alzheimer’s Disease treatment and care is to help manage symptoms, enhance the quality of life and maintain independence for as long as possible. Treatment and care may also include medications, therapy, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
How Hope Hospice Can Help Someone
With Alzheimer’s Disease
What They Say
Common Questions About Alzheimer's Disease
Review our frequently asked questions to find the answers to common queries:
Alzheimer’s Disease is most commonly seen in people over 65, but it can affect people of any age. The risk increases with age and may be greater for those who have a family history of Alzheimer’s or who have the gene that is associated with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease.
Although there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s Disease, there are treatments and care that can help manage symptoms, maintain independence and improve quality of life. Treatment may include medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
It is important to create an environment that is safe and secure to help reduce confusion and fear. Make lists and use labels to help individuals remember tasks and instructions. It is also important to remain patient and calm and to use positive reinforcement when helping individuals with Alzheimer’s.
End-of-life planning for a person with Alzheimer’s Disease may include discussing advanced directives, funeral arrangements and power of attorney. It is important to start the conversation early so that, the individual’s wishes are respected and that they and their families have the support they need during the end of life.
Signs and symptoms that may indicate that Alzheimer’s Disease is worsening include increased confusion and disorientation, difficulty with language, visual problems, difficulty performing activities, changes in sleep patterns, and increases in anxiety or aggression.
A hospice care team can provide many important services for those living with Alzheimer’s Disease and their families. Services may include pain and symptom management, end-of-life planning, family counseling, caregiver support, respite care and much more.