What You Might Not Know About Alzheimer’s Disease
Most people think of Alzheimer’s disease as forgetfulness. But it’s much more than that. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, which is a general term for the loss of memory and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.
Alzheimer’s disease knows no social, economic, cultural or racial divides. Every 70 seconds, someone in America develops Alzheimer’s disease. An estimated 5.3 million Americans of all ages have Alzheimer’s disease, including an estimated 80,000 people in South Carolina alone.
Memory loss that disrupts everyday life is not a normal part of aging. It may be a sign of Alzheimer’s disease. Although the disease is more common in people 65 and older, it can also strike those intheir 30s, 40s and 50s.
If you notice any of these warning signs in yourself or someone you know, don’t ignore them. See your doctor for a check-up. There are other conditions, some that are treatable, that could be causing the signs. hat You Might er’s Disease
• Memory changes that disrupt daily life.
• Challenges in planning or solving problems.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure.
• Confusion with time or place.
• Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships.
• New problems with words in speaking or writing.
• Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps.
• Decreased or poor judgment.
• Withdrawal from work or social activities.
• Changes in mood and personality
Although Alzheimer’s disease is a frightening thought, it’s important to know that there are definite benefits to identifying Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages. Studies have consistently shown that early diagnosis along with active medical management of Alzheimer’s disease can significantly improve quality of life through all stages of the disease for diagnosed individuals and their caregivers. Early diagnosis also gives individuals a chance to participate in research opportunities and plan for the future.
In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association – South Carolina Chapter is working daily to support local families who are dealing with this disease. Our 24-hour helpline is always there with a compassionate person on the other end. Respite funds provide a needed break to dedicated (but stressed) family caregivers. Support groups help individuals cope and know that they are not alone in this fight. Educational programming brings keeps our communities up-to-date on the latest drug treatments and ways to keep your brain as healthy as possible.
I encourage families who are providing care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or related dementia to contact the Alzheimer’s Association to learn more about the resources and assistance available. The South Carolina Chapter serves the entire state through a network of regional offices, including one right here in Columbia. But there is a reason to hope. Each year brings new revelations about the causes of and potential treatments for this devastating disease.
Nationally, the Alzheimer’s Association is the largest private, nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s disease research. For nearly 30 years, our organization has been the catalyst and leader for a generation of advancements in Alzheimer research and care. In that time, the breadth and depth of research conducted to better understand and ultimately slow or prevent the disease has been remarkable.
All people deserve the dignity of aging with their unique personalities, memories and experiences intact. Let’s work together for a world without Alzheimer’s disease. To learn more about services offered by the South Carolina Chapter or how you can support the cause, please call 1-800-636-3346 or visit http://www.alz.org/sc.