
Did you know that 5.8 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimerâs 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 Alzheimerâs Disease Awareness Month, and itâs a good time to check in with the Alzheimerâs playbook on how to prevent and manage the disease.
Alzheimerâs Facts
Ten percent of all Americans over the age of 65 have been diagnosed with Alzheimerâs disease. With numbers like that, it would be nearly impossible (not to mention expensive) to provide around-the-clock medical care for every patient. Thatâs 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 Alzheimerâs. Itâs a heavy task to bear, but there are some tips in the Alzheimerâs playbook that can help make it a little easier.
Alzheimerâs Warning Signs
Knowing the warning signs of dementia and Alzheimerâs is important, because catching it early can help you prepare and even slow the effects of the disease. Hereâs 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 Alzheimerâs 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 Alzheimerâs.
Slowing Alzheimerâs Progression
We may not have a cure, but studies show there are ways to slow the progression of Alzheimerâs. These are simple changes that can be made in your everyday life, that can have a big impact on you future. They include:
- Maintaining a healthy diet
- Exercising regularly
- Taking memory support supplements (such as Ceriva and GingkoRose by Metagenics)
- Taking CoQ10 supplements such as those from Nordic Naturals or CoQ10 30 Mg from Pure Encapsulations
- Socializing
- Doing crossword puzzles
- Going to the doctor regularly for checkups
- Get plenty of sleep
- Get plenty of folic acid such as from Standard Process
Tips for the Caregiver
Itâs important for caregivers to stay on top of the Alzheimerâs 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 Alzheimerâs Caregivers
- Plan for whatâs ahead with the patient
- Connect with other caregivers in your community
- Join online support groups
- Educate yourself on the disease
For more information on Alzheimerâs disease for both the patient and caregiver, log on anytime to alz.org, or call (800) 272-3900.
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