Alzheimer’s Info: Where to Begin

Alzheimer’s disease affects most of us in some way or another today. We all have had relatives or friends with family members afflicted by this progressive, degenerative illness. But until it really touches your own life or the life of someone very close to you, you probably don’t know very much about the actual disease. What Alzheimer’s info is available and how do you find it?

A definition of Alzheimer’s

First of all, you’ll want some basic Alzheimer’s info. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia for people over the age of 65. Alzheimer’s disease is a disorder that attacks the brain’s nerve cells. This causes memory loss, a decline in thinking and language skills, and even behavioral changes. The origin of the disease goes back to 1906 when a German doctor, Dr. Alois Alzheimer, studied the autopsied brain of a woman who had died after suffering for years from a rare brain disorder. This doctor discovered plaque deposits, as well as tangled neurofibrillary fibers, in her brain; the presence of these still characterize the disease today.

Common symptoms

Alzheimer’s info shows that the symptoms fall into two basic categories: cognitive (having to do with brain function) and psychological (or behavioral). A person who has developed Alzheimer’s gradually loses their ability to remember facts and events. Their short-term memory is compromised first. Their ability to communicate is damaged too. They won’t be able to understand what they hear or read, although they may try to cover this up by appearing like they do. Eventually they cannot perform simple daily activities like dressing themselves or brushing their teeth. Psychologically an Alzheimer’s patient might exhibit depression and personality changes.

Where to find Alzheimer’s Info

A good place to begin is with your family’s primary care physician. He can give you some basic Alzheimer’s info as well as provide you with direction about which path to take next. If a family member is exhibiting signs of Alzheimer’s, you can’t let them be responsible alone for the information they receive at the doctor’s office; they will need you to be with them at the appointment to hear accurately what is shared. Your family doctor can recommend other medical professionals to perform necessary tests to accurately assess your family member.

Use the Internet

You’ll be able to find a large amount of Alzheimer’s info online. There are several national organizations that host websites full of all kinds of helpful information. Alzheimer’s online support groups are available too – this is a great way to connect with other caregivers, especially if you are tied down to caring for your loved one and can’t easily get to a local meeting. You can also find Alzheimer’s info about alternative treatments and the latest research. The more educated you can be, the better.

Local Resources

You can also find lots of support and information right in your local area. Check into the possibility of local support groups. Here you can gain wisdom about how to more effectively deal with your loved one’s care. You can also get Alzheimer’s info about specific concerns, like finding the right in-home caregiver or the best nursing home in your area.

Alzheimer’s info is out there – keep asking questions and you’ll get the answers you need.