Have you or someone you love been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease? You may be feeling frustrated or alone, but there are millions going through the same things you are. 5.8 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Although Alzheimer’s doesn’t have a cure, some treatments can slow the progression and allow those with it to have a higher quality of life.

Do you suspect that your loved one has Alzheimer’s? If so, the sooner you get them to a physician the sooner you can begin to administer care, whether through a family caregiver or a home health aide. Below are ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s that you should look out for: 

• Challenges in planning or solving problems
• Memory loss that disrupts daily life
• Confusion about time or place
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home or work
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
• New problems with words in speaking or writing
• Decreased or poor judgment when making decisions
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
• Changes in mood or personality
• Withdrawal from work or social activities

Many of these symptoms can be mistaken as a normal part of aging. Remember: Alzheimer’s is so much more than basic forgetfulness. Most people will experience a symptom of two above as they age. But, for those with Alzheimer’s, the symptoms will gradually get worse and more frequent with time.

Help from Home Health Aides in Newburyport, Methuen, Haverhill, and Surrounding Areas

Once your loved one has been officially diagnosed, there are many things you can do to transition your loved one and your entire family into this new stage of life. Below are a few basic tips to remember.

• Take care of financial, legal, and long-term care planning issues sooner rather than later.
• Educate yourself about the disease
• Arrange for respite care and/or regular professional home care with a home health aide
• Prioritize cognitive stimulation.
• Build a support system.

Finding professional Alzheimer’s care for your loved one is as simple as making a quick phone call. Contact Visiting Angels of Newburyport today to learn more about our Alzheimer’s care and what our home health aides can do for you.