Alzheimer's Support Line

Early symptoms of Alzheimer's can include finding it difficult to express your thoughts and to understand what people are saying, and draw conclusions from information while others might notice changes in the individual's personality or behaviour. Alzheimer's Society has a more complete list of the signs of dementia. Dementia affects people differently and the rate at which symptoms get worse can vary. On average, people live for around 8-10 years after they start to get symptoms, but this can vary a lot.

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's is largely a process of ruling out other potential causes for the symptoms being presented, as there is no single test for Alzheimer's disease itself. Although there are scans and genetic tests available to ascertain a diagnosis, these usually serve to reinforce clinical assessments rather than to act as definitive indicators. Treatment for Alzheimer's disease is a complex issue. It does not yet offer a cure, but rather aims at slowing down the progress of the disease. The baseline for treatment is medication. There are five drugs currently approved for treating Alzheimer's disease, with a sixth pending approval, all of which aim to alleviate symptoms. Physical exercise, social activities, and what is commonly termed "brain training" are all considered to be beneficial to slowing down the progression of the disease. A healthcare practitioner should conduct a patient's diagnosis through a thorough medical evaluation.

Support Services for Alzheimer's Patients and Caregivers

Alzheimer's Support Line Overview

The Alzheimer's Support Line is a 24/7 service available to both patients and their family members. Through it, individuals can speak with trained professionals who understand the unique challenges of living with and caring for someone with Alzheimer's. Each staff member is equipped to handle the emotional concerns and breakdowns that come with the disease, and to help come up with a plan to solve pressing issues. They also provide families with information on local resources and services available, as well as treatment options, and coping support.

Counseling and Emotional Support

The help line offers counseling and emotional support in various ways. They offer education, counseling, and support- as well as familiarity with local resources. This is a link to the website where you can find resources. You are able to give them a call any time of day and you can ask any questions to anyone**. The number is (800)-272-3900**. If you are in need do not hesitate. It is free of charge!

Resources and Information

Their website offers specific Alzheimer's disease information. Additional tools include an educational center to help users learn more about the disease, its stages and symptoms, medications and treatments that may be available. For support groups, there is another online feature that allows users to see if there are any groups meeting up in their area. The Alzheimer's Support Line can also provide a long list of products as well, such as cooking products, books, DVD's and numerous assistive devices(API Assistive Products) to make life with an Alzheimer's patient a little easier.

Practical Tips for Coping with Alzheimer's

Communication Strategies

Decreasing environmental distractions and others is also important. By keeping other unusual noises lower, a conversation can be more relaxing for people with Alzheimer's difficulties. As an example, a very quiet place, perhaps with comfortable seating, can serve as the best place to have a conversation. In the same vein, distracting activities should be avoided when possible while talking.

Daily Living and Safety Tips

Remember to encourage the person with Alzheimer's to stay as active and involved as possible. Encourage all previous activities and hobbies such as going for a walk, helping with simple chores, playing familiar music, gardening, or taking part in religious activities. Tailor activities to what the person enjoys, such as word puzzles, weeding, or listening to music. Regular exercise is also good for the person and reduces anxiety and improves sleep and appetite.

Use body language. People with dementia may have more difficulty expressing thoughts and emotions. Facial expressions, movements, and the tone of your voice can communicate your feelings and thoughts. Never argue with the person. Always say "I'm sorry" if you are wrong, but don't tell the person that he or she is wrong. Don't insist on explanations or reasons, but allow plenty of time for decision-making. Even two minutes is not enough time. Take care to understand his or her words. Avoid distractions and noise---turn off the TV or music, and move to quieter places.

Managing Behavioral Changes

If a relative with Alzheimer's disease responds very differently and unpredictably to most of their caregivers or family members, realizing that their cognitive pattern or limitations have progressed to the point where they can no longer carry out the obligations as they used to can be difficult and painful. These individuals can be defiant and verbally abusive. Try to remain calm, and use courtesy and common sense. Don't try to require validation for their behavior. Using activities or conversation to re-channel the attention can be successful. Understand that these actions are not random and that the individual is conscious to a degree. Determining the triggers for such actions normally happens. A particular noise, picture, or experience could cause behavioral improvements. If it can help, the new routine or tool may require to be removed from the line of vision.

Caregiver Self-Care

If you don't take care of yourself, you won't be able to care for another. When caring for an individual with Alzheimer's disease, it is so easy to get caught up in the necessities and forget about meeting your own needs. Caregivers of people with Alzheimer's disease, especially those who are close to the person, should support each other and would benefit from professional help, support groups, training and respite services.

Bibliography

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