What You Need to Know

Did you know that 5.8 million Americans are
currently living with Alzheimer’s and dementia? That means whether or not you
or someone you know has struggled with the disease, there is a very good chance
that you will in your lifetime. November is National Alzheimer’s Disease
Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to check in with the Alzheimer’s playbook
on how to prevent and manage the disease.

Alzheimer’s
Facts

Ten percent of all Americans over the age of
65 have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. With numbers like that, it
would be nearly impossible (not to mention expensive) to provide
around-the-clock medical care for every patient. That’s why the care, ends up
being the responsibility of friends and family. In fact, 16 million Americans
are currently providing unpaid care for someone with Alzheimer’s. It’s a heavy
task to bear, but there are some tips in the Alzheimer’s playbook that can help
make it a little easier.

Alzheimer’s Warning Signs

Knowing the warning signs of dementia and
Alzheimer’s is important, because catching it early can help you prepare and
even slow the effects of the disease. Here’s what to look for:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty concentrating and
  following a plan
• Difficulty completing normal daily
  tasks
• Losing track of time and places
• Trouble with vision and balance
• Repeating words or having trouble
  following a conversation
• Misplacing items often
• May have a disheveled appearance
• Withdrawing from social activities
• Mood swings and changes in
  personality

According to the Alzheimer’s playbook, if you
notice these signs about yourself or someone you know, you should immediately
get checked out by a doctor. Early detection is important. It can give you
access to treatments that may relieve symptoms and slow the development of the
disease. Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s.

Slowing Alzheimer’s Progression

We may not have a cure, but studies show there
are ways to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. These are
simple changes that can be made in your
everyday life, that can have a big impact on you future. They include:

Tips for the Caregiver

It’s important for caregivers to stay on top of the Alzheimer’s playbook too. If you are caring for
a loved one with cognitive disease, here are some resources that can help you.

• Coach
  Broyles Playbook for Alzheimer’s
  Caregivers
• Plan for what’s
  ahead with the patient
• Connect with other
  caregivers in your community
• Join online support
  groups
• Educate yourself on
  the disease

For more information on Alzheimer’s disease
for both the patient and caregiver, log on anytime to alz.org, or call (800) 272-3900.