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Concerns about Alzheimer's
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Everyone has those moments where they question their sanity and their memory. A dear friend approaches and their name suddenly escapes your mind. You are positive the car keys were on the counter and they've disappeared. You go through three names before you finally hit your son's, "Bobby, Bradley, BRIAN!"
As we get older, such episodes seem to worsen and the dreaded word "Alzheimer's" starts creeping into our vocabulary. Working with seniors at the recreation department, I was fortunate to be in on several presentations regarding dementia and I also knew a few people that were diagnosed with Alzheimer's. My mother now lives in a retirement community and she hears other people worry about the disease and concerns creep into her mind as well.
First, consider the fact that the longer we live, the more things we have to remember. Our brain becomes an over-stuffed Rolodex and it can take a bit longer to get to the information we need. As the tabs become frayed, we might lose a page here or there but the basic mechanism is still functioning. Humor aside, there are things to do and know to help ourselves and others that may be fretting over memory loss.
Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia but it is not the only cause for loss of memory and other mental abilities.
The Alzheimer's Association is a great resource for information and support. A dear friend who is also a nurse practitioner talked to a group of seniors about Alzheimer's and noted, "If you think you are getting it, you probably don't have it." While victims of the disease may sense something is wrong, it is much different than realizing you've lost your keys. Many times, a dementia patient won't realize they are forgetting things, because they don't remember. Family and friends are usually the ones to recognize symptoms and will remark about forgetfulness. The patient usually becomes defensive and argues they aren't forgetful and will make excuses. The Alzheimer's Association has a list of warning signs that compares normal and abnormal behavior.
If you are worried about yourself or someone close to you, please seek medical attention. Your personal physician is the most qualified to start the screening process. New discoveries are continually being made regarding treatments and prevention. There is no cure yet, but there are ways to prevent the disease from progressing.
If you are not involved in an exercise program, find one that suits you. Activity helps with blood circulation and improved circulation aids brain function. Any increase in movement is better than none. If you aren't walking, start a slow stroll for just a few minutes a day and build up time and distance gradually. Consider finding some kind of interactive game that you can enjoy with others. Be sure to check with your doctor before beginning any new exercise routine!
Mental games are also helpful. Crossword puzzles, search words, number games, solitaire and other "fun" games are great for older adults. The added bonus is you no longer have to feel it's a waste of time because playing is actually good for you! Try "Free online games," "Addicting Games" or "Shockwave Word Games" to start.
If you are a caregiver, don't forget to take care of yourself first! The Alzheimer's Association has resources for you, too!
Alzheimer's is serious and life-threatening but there is hope and there is help.
The Alzheimer’s Association is not responsible for information or advice provided by others, including information on Web sites that link to Association sites and on third party sites to which the Association links. Please direct any questions to weblink@alz.org.
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