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.
74 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.
3 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.
96 CommentsCaring for a Senior With Alzheimer's At Home: Tips & Strategies
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, some families make the decision to care for them at home. Incorporate these caregiving tips and strategies into your daily routine.
8 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.
122 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
My dad's been in the hospital for 5 months. He moves to a long term care home tomorrow! I am so nervous and sad for him. Any advice?
23 Answerslealonnie1 Answered 21 min agoMy mom has severe agitation/anxiety from 2:00 pm until 8:00 pm everyday. Anyone else experience this and are there any natural remedies?
3 AnswersMyonlysunshine Replied 1 hour agoShould I still call my mom "Mom"?
10 AnswersLlamalover47 Answered 1 hour agoMom has become upset lately because she has found items in her house that she "knows" she hasn't purchased, though she has to have. Advice?
4 Answers
Alzheimer's & Dementia Discussions
I received the following information on what from the Alzheimer association has been doing with the FDA to have medication approved
4 Commentsgladimhere Commented 13 hours agoMy mom has been a miserable, nasty, and hateful person all her life. As a mother she has dominated every aspect of her children's life.
1,120 CommentsShower safety...
2 CommentsI am so frustrated because I try to be patient and caring with my 85 yr old MIL with dementia, but I'm failing.
7 Commentscindybrownlbsw Commented Jan 22, 2021
