Coping with Alzheimer’s disease can be a tough journey for both the individual that has it or/and their caregivers. Misinformation or lack of awareness is what worsens the situation further. Anyway there’s a lot of stigma attached to mental health, misinformation just adds to the woes. This blog aims to provide you valuable information about the rampant Alzheimer’s disease so that you can cope with it better.

Don’t confuse Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Concern about dementia is increasingly growing in our world with USA leading the pack, since just about half of the US adults have dementia, and every passing year is witnessing an addition of a few more millions. People often fail to understand the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia. So dementia basically is a broader term for a range of symptoms, including decline in memory, a decline in ability to reason or think that poses great difficulty in carrying out every day activities as the condition progresses while Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia. Symptoms decide which type of dementia an individual has.

Women are more susceptible than men

Out of the 6 million people living with Alzheimer’s disease in the USA, females make 4 million of those cases. Reason for this is still unclear. But going by the statistics highlights the importance for every woman approaching 60 to take charge of their cognitive health. Acquire knowledge about the signs of Alzheimer’s disease and share any concern with a doctor right away, since earlier diagnosis means early treatment and improved chances of reaping good benefits from treatment.

Alzheimer’s can develop in individuals as young as 40

The younger lot is just as prone to developing Alzheimer’s disease. If you develop memory problems that interfere with performing regular activities, it’s time to get yourself evaluated for a potential diagnosis. Do not jump to conclusions on your own or brush aside any sign, such as trouble completing a familiar task, trouble planning or solving problems, etc.

Do not mistake occasional forgetfulness for an early sign of Alzheimer’s

Occasional forgetfulness is a common part of aging. Stress, work overload, lack of rest can all lead to forgetting where you’ve kept your car keys, or being unable to immediately call a name to mind, or confusing the days (thinking a Thursday to be a Friday). These do not indicate Alzheimer’s.

Medications play a big role

Alzheimer’s disease is progressive. Medications like antidepressants may not be able to slow the disease from advancing, but can be instrumental in treating the symptoms, and also have been shown to preserve the cognitive skills (in some people) required to carry out the significant activities of everyday life like bathing. Again, early intervention is the key to gain the most benefits from medication.