Alzheimer's & Dementia Care
Dementia is a group of cognitive and psychological symptoms affecting memory, thinking and social abilities. As changes in the brain progress, declines in thinking skills, reasoning and behavior affect a person's ability to function independently.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia. A few conditions that cause symptoms of dementia are reversible, but most types of dementia, like Alzheimer's, cause permanent brain changes, and worsen over time.
Symptoms of dementia vary greatly. If you are noticing changes in thinking, behavior or memory, seek a professional evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for the best plan of care.
Whether you are providing hands-on care or participating in making care decisions, AgingCare has resources to help. Browse our collection of informative articles, Alzheimer’s Q&A, and dementia discussions. Find the support of other dementia caregivers in AgingCare’s online Caregiver Forum -a community of caregivers who truly understand.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles
10 Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Dementias
How do you know if an aging loved one is showing typical age-related changes vs. showing early signs and symptoms of dementia? Dementia warning signs vary, but memory loss, behavior changes, and increased confusion are common indicators.
75 CommentsEarly Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Is Crucial for Effective Planning and Treatment
Half of all patients with Alzheimer’s are already in the moderate to severe stages of the disease by the time they are diagnosed. Increased attention to the early stages of AD is essential for proper treatment, planning and caregiver support.
5 CommentsThe Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
The only certainty when diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease is that a senior’s condition will progressively worsen. The national Alzheimer’s Association has developed a very useful staging system to use as a frame of reference when coping with AD.
98 CommentsTips for Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s At Home
Many families are committed to caring for Alzheimer’s patients at home for as long as possible. Incorporate these tips and strategies into your daily routine to ensure a safe and successful in-home care experience.
9 CommentsIs Using Validation for Dementia Calming or Condescending?
Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia often live in an altered reality. Using “therapeutic fibbing” to validate their perceptions and feelings is the kindest, most respectful way to handle confusion, hallucinations and delusions.
123 CommentsWhy Do People Die From Alzheimer’s Disease?
The most noticeable symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is memory loss, but this progressive condition ultimately weakens the immune system and prevents the body from functioning properly. Complications like infections are often the cause of death.
53 Comments
Alzheimer's & Dementia Questions
Any suggestions on how to more properly handle my mother in law who now explodes at the drop of the hat at anyone and has zero patience?
18 Answersmy2cents Replied 23 min agoI am my dad's POA and am working on handling my dad's finances. He needs more increased care. Can I access his money to pay for more care?
3 AnswersAlvaDeer Answered 55 min agoMom in assisted living, calling my brother and/or me being angry/mean every night...leaves horrible messages. Forgets in the a.m. Advice?
4 AnswersAlvaDeer Answered 1 hour agoAnyone have experience with Seroquel?
2 AnswersMidkid58 Answered 1 hour ago
Alzheimer's & Dementia Discussions
Check your "patient's" meds?
6 Commentssamanthasummner Commented 20 hours ago(Crazy World)
10 CommentsLizbitty Commented Dec 4, 2021Sometimes you have to laugh (so you don't cry)
6 CommentsLlamalover47 Commented Dec 1, 2021Dementia and the holidays...
11 CommentsDaughterof1930 Commented Dec 1, 2021
