Alzheimers

What is Alzheimer’s?

Also known as senile dementia, Alzheimer’s is a disease that destroys memory and other critical mental functions over time. The disease targets brain cell connections and leads to the degeneration and death of brain cells. 

Although no cure exists for Alzheimer’s, medications and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms. The team at Advanced Center for Neurology and Headache emphasizes treatments for the disease to help you or a loved one enjoy an optimal quality of life with Alzheimer’s.

What are the symptoms of Alzheimer’s?

The main symptoms are memory loss and confusion. The disease may affect other aspects of your health or that of a loved one, such as cognitive functioning and emotions. Symptoms include: 

• Mental decline
  
• Difficulty thinking and understanding
  
• Confusion in the evening hours
  
• Delusion
  
• Disorientation
  
• Forgetfulness
  
• Making things up
  
• Mental confusion
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
• Inability to create new memories
  
• Not recognizing common objects
  
• Aggression
  
• Agitation
  
• Difficulty with self-care
  
• Irritability
  
• Personality changes
  
• Wandering and getting lost
  
• Anger or mood swings
  
• Apathy
  
• Loneliness
  
• Depression
  
• Hallucination
  
• Paranoia

Loss of appetite or jumbled speech are also common occurrences with Alzheimer’s.

What are the treatments for Alzheimer’s?

Although no cure exists, the team at Advanced Center for Neurology and Headache recommends medications that may temporarily improve symptoms and enhance memory. Rehabilitation programs can help you or a loved one to enjoy a meaningful life, depending on the progression of the disease and other factors.

What is Alzheimer’s rehabilitation?

A rehabilitation program is designed to provide a balanced program of physical exercise, social activity, proper nutrition, and health maintenance activities. Features of the program include:

• Daily activities to give a sense of structure, meaning, accomplishment, and familiarity. 
  
• Caregiving to encourage you or a loved one to complete as many tasks as possible independently.
  
• Helpful strategies to provide cues for desired behavior, such as labeling closets and cabinets according to their contents.
  
• Eliminating safety risks, such as car keys and matches.
  
• Full-time or part-time caregiving that recognizes both physical and emotional limitations.

If you or a loved one has the signs of Alzheimer’s or has been diagnosed with the disease, rely on the team at Advanced Center for Neurology and Headache for compassionate, effective care. Call today or book a consultation online.