By: Arthur Cooper
Submitted: 2011-05-31 13:06:13 | Word Count: 664
If you live in Chicago and are seeking care for Alzheimer’s, the treatment options are limited. Even so, an early start may help your senior afflicted with this disease to live a longer period of independence. Therefore, the earlier the diagnosis occurs, the better for the near and long-term future.
Seniors who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease require a highly specialized home environment, since the disease leads tot a loss of abilities to carry out daily living activities. Also, elders with Alzheimer’s tend to wander off, a serious problem that presents unique challenges. Modifications and precautions that are appropriate in the earlier stages of the disease may not work for middle and later stages. You may consider contacting the local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association for detailed information on home modification suggestions, as well as emotional support.
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Currently, four medications can, and in some cases, temporarily slow the decaying memory loss, and may help stimulate modest memory improvement, and have a positive effect on the behavior of those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers haven’t quite figured out how the cholinesterase inhibitors truly work. Acetylcholine, a chemical found in the brain, is essential to memory and thinking. The brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia are deficient in acetylcholine. Scientists have observed that the longer acetylcholine is around in the brain, the better the memory. An enzyme called acetylcholinesterase breaks down acetylcholine, but the inhibitors slow down this process, allowing acetylcholine to remain in the brain much longer. Generally with these medications, the higher the dose the better the response, but the doctor has to start with a very low dose and go slowly because high doses increase the likelihood of side effects.
So if your parent or senior loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, this is the time to provide them emotional support. Reassure your elder of your continued love and respect and the fact that you are all in this together. Expect yourself and other close people to respond to the Alzheimer’s diagnosis with deep sadness, anger, feelings of helplessness, and even guilt. After experiencing these emotions, it’s then time to address the following questions:
What legal and financial matters require immediate attention? Since this illness eventually robs sufferers of their ability to handle their own affairs, get everything in order while your elder can still express their wishes.
Who will be the primary caregiver? Someone has to be ready to step into this situation, or, you need to be able to find and afford a professional caregiver.
What living arrangements have to be made? The people afflicted may be able to live on their own at first, but as the disease progresses, more supervision will be necessary.
How will healthcare be paid for? Medical care will be an increasing expense, and there are many choices based on in-home or out-of home Alzheimer’s care.
What should be done immediately? Find out what the person was hoping or wishing they’d do “someday” and then make it happen â€" today, as soon as possible because time is not on anyone’s side.
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