Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, affects nearly 7 million Americans, with projections suggesting this number could nearly double by 2050, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Unlike normal aging, dementia includes memory loss and is progressive, evolving through early, middle, and late stages.
Living with Alzheimer’s
For those in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, resources such as ALZConnected (alzconnected.org) offer online community support. Depression and isolation are common following diagnosis, but support is available. The Alzheimer’s Association provides an in-person support group through a free eight-week program at Cross Keys Village in New Oxford. For immediate support, their helpline is accessible at 1.800.272.3900. Patients are encouraged to maintain a routine, exercise, and seek professional health consultations as needed. Key lifestyle tips include using a pillbox, avoiding processed foods, ensuring quality sleep, and maintaining a cool, dark sleeping environment.
Support for Caregivers
It is crucial for caregivers to understand the specific type of dementia their loved one is experiencing, such as frontotemporal dementia, which affects individuals including notable figures like Bruce Willis. Local support is available, including monthly meetings hosted by Adams County Office for Aging, and phone support from the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Resources from experts like Teepa Snow and Dementia Darlings online can offer additional guidance. Caregivers are encouraged to consider respite care options, such as those provided by Cross Keys Village and Transitions Healthcare Gettysburg, to manage their own well-being.
Engagement and Well-being
Activities such as reminiscing over photo albums, enjoying music from the past, and interacting with children or companion pets can significantly benefit individuals with dementia. Tools like sensory pads, fidget blankets, and weighted lap pads also aid in managing stress and anxiety.
Upcoming Local Events
Several events are on the horizon to support Alzheimer’s awareness:
- The Longest Day: A day-long event on June 20 at Spirit Trust Lutheran in Gettysburg, celebrating the summer solstice with activities honoring those affected by Alzheimer’s.
- Managing Challenging Behaviors Within Memory Care: A class scheduled for June 25 at Gettysburg Library.
- Smart Cookie: Promoting Brain Health in Older Adults: Set for July 20, 2024, at the Gettysburg Library.
- Walk to End Alzheimer’s for Adams/Franklin County: Slated for October 5, 2024, encouraging community participation.
As Nancy Reagan poignantly described, Alzheimer’s is “the really long, long goodbye.” Embracing each moment and finding joy in the journey with dementia is essential for patients and their caregivers alike.
Additional Tips for Enhancing Daily Living:
- Memory aids: Use notebooks for reminders, and employ pillboxes to manage medications effectively.
- Exercise: Engage in physical activities to stimulate endorphins, enhancing mood and well-being.
- Diet: Opt for whole foods over processed options and reduce sugar intake.
- Sleep: Employ good sleep hygiene practices like minimizing exposure to screens before bedtime and maintaining a sleep-conducive environment.
- Legal affairs: Organize and communicate personal wishes and legal matters early to ease future transitions.
These practical steps can help manage the challenges of dementia and improve quality of life for both those diagnosed and their caregivers.
Amy Thomas, Contributing Editor, is responsible for community outreach, including our social media presence. She, her husband, and her two children reside in Adams County. Amy also works in occupational therapy and volunteers with local organizations.