By: Melanie C. – Agely

 

The older a person becomes, the greater risk they are of experiencing cognitive decline. Nearly six million people in the United States live with Alzheimer’s over the age of 65. Around 300,000 people in the United States suffer from the rarer early-onset Alzheimer’s, which develops before age 65. This doesn’t suggest that age is a primary cause of the condition, but the incidence of Alzheimer’s does increase with age.

In what follows, we’ll explore the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly in the context of seniors above the age of 65. Further, we’ll detail the most notable signs and symptoms of the disease. Finally, we’ll discuss some of the practical implications of considerable importance when dealing with Alzheimer’s disease in seniors.

 

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder often with rapid progression that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common cause of memory impairment in older adults and is characterized by the formation of amyloid plaques and high deposits of protein in neurons in the brain. Subsequently, the death of brain cells and tissue atrophy takes place. The most common characteristics of cognitive deterioration include: memory loss, behavioral changes and impaired motor movements. Signs and symptoms can present themselves earlier, however subtle, and tend to increase in severity over time.

 

Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease typically develops gradually over several years and is often unrecognized in its early stages. However, there are several early signs and symptoms that are specific to the presence of the disease in elders.

One of the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s disease is difficulty with memory, particularly the inability to remember new information. This may manifest as forgetting recently learned information, misplacing objects or struggling to recall the names of familiar people or places. As the disease progresses, memory loss may become more severe and may interfere with daily activities. Another common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty with language, such as trouble finding the right words to express oneself or understanding spoken or written language. This may manifest as difficulty keeping up with conversations, reading or writing. Other early signs of the disease may include changes in mood and behavior, such as becoming easily agitated or angry, experiencing personality changes or exhibiting abnormal behaviors.

Finally, seniors with Alzheimer’s can also experience changes in their ability to perform everyday tasks, such as paying bills, cooking, or driving. They may have trouble following familiar routines or can become disoriented in familiar places. It is important to note that these early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease are not specific only to Alzheimer’s and can occur with other conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s often helps in the management of the disease and can improve quality of life.

 

The Benefits of Memory Care Facilities

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease can be challenging and emotionally taxing for families. The disease is progressive and worsens with time. The process often requires significant amounts of time, energy, and resources to manage. The physical and emotional strain of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming and it can be hard for family members to provide the necessary level of care and support on their own. One way that families can alleviate some of the difficulties of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is by seeking out a long-term memory care facility. Memory care facilities are specialized residential communities equipped to meet the needs of elders with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. These facilities provide a safe, supportive and structured environment for seniors with memory loss. They are staffed by trained professionals experienced in caring for elders with cognitive impairment.

Memory care facilities offer a range of services and amenities tailored to the needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s, including:

• Structured daily routines and activities
• Specialized memory care programs
• Secure outdoor areas and walking paths
• Medication management and administration
• Nutritious meals and snacks
• Assistance with bathing, grooming and dressing
• Transportation to medical appointments

Memory care facilities can also offer much-needed respite and support for family caregivers. Caring for an individual with Alzheimer’s can be physically and emotionally draining; family caregivers can benefit from the opportunity to take a break and recharge. Memory care facilities can provide a sense of relief and peace of mind for family

caregivers since they know their loved one is receiving the care and support they need.

 

Considering Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is a type of insurance that helps cover the costs of long- term care services, such as those provided by a nursing home or assisted living facility. Long-term care insurance can be an important consideration for those who want to plan for all health possibilities as they age. Since Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive and degenerative condition that often requires a significant amount of care and support, long-term care insurance may be extremely helpful financially in dealing with the condition. There are several potential benefits to having long-term care insurance for seniors with

 

Alzheimer’s disease:

• Affordability: Long-term care insurance can help cover the high costs of long- term care services, which can be financially burdensome for many families. By buying long-term care insurance, seniors with Alzheimer’s and their families can potentially save thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
• Flexibility: Long-term care insurance can provide flexibility in terms of the type and location of care received. With long-term care insurance, seniors with Alzheimer’s and their families can choose which type of care best meets their needs and preferences — whether it be in-home care, assisted living or a nursing facility.
• Peace of mind: Having long-term care insurance can provide peace of mind for both seniors with Alzheimer’s and their families. It can give families the assurance that their loved one will receive the care and support they need, even if the disease progresses and becomes more severe.
• It is important to note that long-term care insurance may not be a possibility for everyone and it is important to carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of this type of insurance before making a decision. Factors to consider may include the individual’s age, health status, and financial resources. It is also important to carefully review the terms and conditions of a long-term care insurance policy to ensure that it meets the needs and circumstances of the individual and their family.

 

Final Thoughts

The long-term outlook of Alzheimer’s and similar diseases varies. Taking a look at Alzheimer’s specifically, the average life expectancy after being diagnosed is about 4-5 years, on average. Individuals can, however, live longer than expected. While there is still no cure for Alzheimer’s and similar cognitive diseases, there are preventative actions and proactive measures that can be taken to manage the progressive development of the disease and improve the overall quality of life.