Notes on Alzheimer's
How can Alzheimer’s be described? Yes, it is a disease of intense emotional and physical loss, but there are more sides that add to its complexity. It is an illness of walking contradictions, false hopes, mistaken identities, guilt-ridden laughs, simple pride, and sleepless nights. Though the final outcome is universal, the journey toward it is uniquely terrifying for each person. What someone forgets and when cannot be predicted, but the disease always continues, expunging one memory or skill at a time.
According to the Alzheimer's Association, over 5 million Americans have the disease, and that number is expected to grow. Studies predict that one in eight baby boomers will develop the disease in the next few decades (that is 10 million people). More startling than the fact that there is no cure is the research showing a growing mortality rate, especially when compared to other diseases. The rate of death from strokes, heart disease, and HIV all decreased by over 10% from 2000-2006, but people dying from Alzheimer's rose 46.1% during that same time period.
Alzheimer's is poised to wreak havoc on countless lives and medical costs in the coming decades, and it will eventually impact everyone in some way. Please, know the signs for early detection and do what you can to support research for a cure.
For more information/statistics, check out:
http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_figures.asp
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10 Tips for Living with Early Onset Alzheimer's
According to the Alzheimer's Association, over 5 million Americans have the disease, and that number is expected to grow. Studies predict that one in eight baby boomers will develop the disease in the next few decades (that is 10 million people). More startling than the fact that there is no cure is the research showing a growing mortality rate, especially when compared to other diseases. The rate of death from strokes, heart disease, and HIV all decreased by over 10% from 2000-2006, but people dying from Alzheimer's rose 46.1% during that same time period.
Alzheimer's is poised to wreak havoc on countless lives and medical costs in the coming decades, and it will eventually impact everyone in some way. Please, know the signs for early detection and do what you can to support research for a cure.
For more information/statistics, check out:
http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_facts_figures.asp
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10 Tips for Living with Early Onset Alzheimer's
- Expect to have good days and bad days.
- Share your story — educate others and express yourself.
- Discuss changes in relationships with a counselor.
- Talk openly about the changes the disease is causing. Share feelings with friends and family, and someone who can help with spiritual needs.
- Get involved. Volunteer in your community. Become an advocate.
- Talk to your employer about adapting your job hours or duties.
- Get professional legal and financial help.
- Maintain your health and reduce stress.
- Take steps to make your home a safer place.
- Stay active. Keep making memories with your loved ones. Use your experience to enlighten.