Alzheimer’s disease can be a painful condition for the person who has it as well as their family members and loved ones. Whether you’re the individual with the condition of a loved one, it’s crucial to practice self-care. A person with Alzheimer’s needs to care for their medical and psychological issues, and the loved one needs to be there for them. You can’t be there for someone if you’re neglecting your needs.
Alzheimer’s often gets misdiagnosed. That’s why it’s critical to know the signs and symptoms of the disease so that you can be aware of it’s happening to you or someone in your family. It can be scary to admit that someone you love may have the condition, but if you face the truth of the matter, you’re closer to getting them help. Here are the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s
Sometimes people mistake Alzheimer’s for other conditions. Pay attention to any behaviors that seem out of the norm for you or your loved one, as they could be a sign of Alzheimer’s Disease. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s vary from person to person, but here are some common signs that people report:
Common signs of Alzheimer’s:
- Memory loss
- Poor judgment
- Loss of initiative
- Repeating questions
- Taking longer to complete everyday tasks
- Trouble managing money or paying bills
- Wandering or getting lost
- Losing or misplacing items
Other signs include:
- Personality changes
- Confusion
- Sundown cognitive issues (getting upset or confused when the sun sets)
- Aggression
- Agitation
- Disorganized speech
- Paranoia
- Depression
- Hallucinations
Of course, these symptoms can overlap with different conditions, but if you notice a cognitive decline, that could be a severe sign of Alzheimer’s.
Get a Proper Diagnosis.
If you notice that you have any of these symptoms, it’s crucial that you get help from a medical professional. Alzheimer’s requires a medical diagnosis. So make sure to see your doctor and find out if you have the condition. Don’t wait to see a provider because the longer you do, your condition could worsen. Alzheimer’s is a degenerative condition. It gets worse over time, so the earlier you get a diagnosis, the better chance you have to manage it. You don’t want to find yourself getting lost and not being able to find your way home. That’s extremely scary and painful for someone to experience.
Alzheimer’s is not curable, but it’s manageable.
It’s important to know that there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s, but with the right medication and therapy, it can be better managed. Doctors can help you feel better. It can also help to see a licensed therapist to help cope with the psychological problems that a person with Alzheimer’s faces. They could be struggling with agitation, depression, or anxiety. Remember that even though there’s no cure, there are people who can help. Medical professionals are dedicated to helping people with the condition continue to experience their lives and find some joy.
Medications
Doctors may prescribe people with Alzheimer’s medications that can slow down the process of degeneration. Cholinesterase inhibitors are a common class of medication used to treat Alzheimer’s Disease. It can help with the cognitive issues that occur with the condition. Additionally, antidepressants may be prescribed to help patients cope with anxiety or depression that can come with Alzheimer’s. If you or your loved one have Alzheimer’s, it can help to ask your doctor about what medications can help. Medications can slow down the progression, but ultimately, it’s not a curable disease.
Therapy and Alzheimer’s
If you’re a patient with Alzheimer’s, it can help to connect with a licensed therapist. Your challenges are unique, and there are geriatric therapists who know what it’s like to deal with the condition. They’re empathetic to your condition and want to be there to support you. It’s okay to ask for help. Alzheimer’s is not an easy condition to live with, and the more support you get, the better. If you’re the loved one of someone with the disease, you could lead them toward a therapist, whether that’s online or in their local area. The emotional part of dealing with Alzheimer’s can be draining for the person with the condition and the loved ones of that individual. If you’re the family member of someone with the disease, you might benefit from talking about your struggles with a therapist as well. It’s perfectly understandable that you need support. Therapy can help people who are touched by Alzheimer’s in a variety of ways.
There’s Hope
When you have a degenerative condition, it can feel hopeless, but there is hope. Remember that there are many professionals who specialize in the treatment of Alzheimer’s; all you have to do is reach out for help. If you’re living with Alzheimer’s, reach out to a doctor and a therapist if you need one. If that’s difficult for you, ask a friend or loved one to help you find a provider. It’s crucial to have a support system to rely on. You’re entitled to live a happy life. These providers can support you as you go through various challenges. You’re the one living with the condition, but these providers have access to helpful medications and psychological treatments that can support you in feeling better.
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