Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurological disorder that affects memory, thinking, and behavior. According to the Alzheimer’s Association database, it is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80% of cases.
The National Library of Medicine report indicates that there are more than 6 million Alzheimer’s victims in the USA alone. Furthermore, this number is expected to rise significantly to 13.8 million by 2060. New York state has a particularly high prevalence, with an estimated 460,000 individuals affected by the disease.
7 Early Symptoms
Early detection of Alzheimer’s is crucial for obtaining the best possible care and support. Here are seven common early symptoms that may indicate the onset of the disease:
- Memory Loss: Memory loss that disrupts an individual’s daily life is one of the common signs of Alzheimer’s dementia, especially in the early stages. This can manifest as forgetting recently learned information, repeatedly asking the same questions, and increasingly relying on memory aids or assistance from family members for tasks that were previously managed independently.
- Change in planning: Some individuals may experience difficulties planning or solving problems as they age or due to certain conditions. These challenges can manifest in various ways, such as trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills.
- Decreased or Poor Judgment: Sometimes, people may notice changes in their judgment or decision-making abilities. This can manifest as poor judgment, particularly when managing money or making financial decisions.
- Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities: People with Alzheimer’s disease can experience changes in their ability to engage in work or social activities. These changes can include difficulty holding or following a conversation, leading to withdrawal from hobbies, social engagements, or other activities. They may also struggle to maintain interest in their favorite sports team or participate in activities they once enjoyed.
- New Problems with Speaking or Writing: Communication difficulties may arise in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, leading to struggles in finding the right words, joining or continuing conversations, or expressing thoughts coherently. Written language may also be affected.
- Misplacing Items and Ability Retrace Steps Loss: Alzheimer’s can cause individuals to put items in unusual places or lose track of where they put them. They may also accuse others of stealing, as they cannot retrace their steps and find misplaced belongings.
Role of Caregivers
The commitment and dedication of caregivers contribute significantly to the well-being of those affected by Alzheimer’s. They can help with the following:
- Daily activities
- Medication management
- Emotional support
- Creating a safe and stimulating environment.
How All Heart Can Help Care for Your Family Member
At All Heart, we understand the difficulties faced by families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease. As a top home care agency in NYC, we have a compassionate and experienced team of caregivers who provide personalized care for individuals with Alzheimer’s. Our services include assistance with daily activities, medication management, emotional support, and companionship.
Leverage All Heart Homecare Agency Services to Improve Your Loved Ones’ Health
The biggest gift is to see your loved ones in their best health condition. At All Heart Homecare, we can help your family get the best homecare services and receive all the needed support to live comfortably with Alzheimer’s disease.
To learn more about how we can assist you in caring for your loved ones, please call us at 888-388-8989. Our friendly dedicated team will be happy to answer all of your questions and guide you to the best care options for your family. We are here to support and ensure your loved one gets the highest quality homecare services.