by Faalik Zahra

 

Do you have a loved one that has Alzheimer’s? You are not alone. In 2022, there is an estimated 6 million people who have Alzheimer’s in America. It is difficult to see a loved one experience so much because of the disease’s impact. People in the patient’s support group often feel helpless.

 

First, it is essential to understand what Alzheimer’s disease is. The Alzheimer’s Association, a voluntary health organization, describes Alzheimer’s as “the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.” Some symptoms that the individual may experience are memory loss, confusion, social withdrawal, and difficulty completing tasks. The symptoms may be at different levels depending on the individual.

 

Understanding Alzheimer’s and its impact will assist you in understanding how you can help. Individuals often need help with tasks throughout their day and assistance in alleviating their confusion. For this, they need to have a support system to assist them.

 

Motivating the individual to perform different tasks and partake in activities is essential. Many patients often remove themselves from work and social activities. This can impact their mental health. Incorporating a routine in the individual’s life can help ensure this doesn’t happen. What works best for an individual depends on person to person, but little activities, social interactions, and routines can help the caregiver decide what works best.

 

Throughout this process, as a caregiver, it is important to take care of yourself as well. It is a challenging and stressful time for the family and loved ones of patients with Alzheimer’s. It is essential for you to take care of yourself, ask for help, and join a support group. It is important to remember that if you don’t take care of yourself, you will not be able to take care of others.

 

If you do not know someone directly impacted by Alzheimer’s, you can still help! You can create awareness of Alzheimer’s and educate others around you. November is Alzheimer’s Awareness month making it a great way to get involved and impact. Professionals are continuously researching Alzheimer’s treatment options and donating to fund these projects can go a long way. These projects focus on combatting Alzheimer’s and finding preventative measures that can help diminish its impact. Together we can help fight Alzheimer’s.