Alzheimer’s disease
Symptoms
-Increasing and persistent forgetfulness, especially of recent events.
-Difficulties with abstract thinking
-Difficulty finding the right words to express thoughts
-Disorientation
-Loss of judgment
-Difficulty performing familiar tasks
-Personality changes
Treatment
So far there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, medication can help slow down the progression or relieve some symptoms and delay the process. Physical activity, conversation, mental stimulation and recreational activities can all help improve life for people suffering with this disease.
Helpful tips
A method called “environmental modification” helps patients overcome the loss of internal mapping abilities of the brain. It requires changes in the environment and routine of the person suffering.
Following adjustments can help make day-to-day activities easier and safer:
-Keeping often-used items in a certain place
-Labeling doors or drawers so person can find things easily
-Simply furnished spaces with minimal distractive clutter
-Placing objects that cue memories in clear view
-Using appliances that shut off automatically
-Using notes and lists to organize activities
-Remove dangerous implements from access
-Hearing and vision should be evaluated regularly and treated appropriately if faltering
-Maintaining healthy eating habits and exercise