Q: What is the difference in Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?
A: Your memory often changes as you grow older. Memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging. It may be a symptom of dementia. Dementia is a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, a fatal disorder that results in the loss of brain cells and function.
Q: What are some of the warning signs of Alzheimer’s?
A:
- Memory changes that disrupt daily life
- Challenges in planning or solving problems
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with time or place
- Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relations
- New problems with words in speaking and writing
- Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
- Decreased or poor judgment
- Withdrawal from work or social activities
- Changes in mood or personality
Q: My loved one is having some memory issues but what is considered normal?
A:
- M
aking a bad decision once in a while is normal could be just a normal part of aging and memory loss - Missing a monthly payment
- Forgetting which day it is but remember later
- Sometimes forgetting which word to use
- Losing things from time to time
Q: What are the differences between Retirement, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing and Memory Care?
A:
Retirement Living is designed for those 55 and older who are still very active and independent and just want to be around other active seniors and no longer need a big house and the yard work etc..- Assisted Living is also for those 55 and older who are still relatively active and independent, but may need help with Medication Management, showering etc.
- Skilled Nursing Facilities are designed for those who have had a serious illness or surgery or hospital stay and require some physical therapy or additional Nursing help before returning home. Skilled Nursing often has long term residents as well who are in need of medical assistance long term.
- Memory Care is designed for those who may still be very physically active or not, but need to be in a safe, secure environment with activities specifically designed for those suffering with memory loss. Care plans are designed to meet the specific needs of each individual.
Q: How can I be sure my loved one is ready for Memory Care?
A: A visit to the Dr. is often the best way to know for sure. There are specific tests, along with information from family and caregivers that the Dr. can use to determine if there is a significant memory loss issue.
Q: Where can I go for additional information, or support for caring for a loved one with Memory Loss?
A: For reliable information and support, contact the Alzheimer’s Association:
1-800-272-3900
www.alz.org
