Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that causes patients to decline over time. Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease benefit greatly from help that is customized to meet their needs as those needs continue to change. Alzheimer’s care providers make life easier and safer for patients, helping family members to learn as much as possible along the way.
Causes of Alzheimer’s Disease
The exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not fully understood, but researchers believe that a combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors may contribute to its development. The primary risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease is growing older, and the likelihood of developing the disease increases as people age. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease include a family history of the disease, head injuries, high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease affects the brain and how it functions, leading to a range of cognitive and behavioral symptoms. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:
- Memory loss, especially difficulty remembering recent events or names of familiar people or objects.
- Difficulty with problem-solving or planning.
- Changes in mood and behavior, including irritability, anxiety, and depression.
- Confusion and disorientation, such as difficulty recognizing people or places and becoming lost in familiar surroundings.
- Difficulty with language, such as difficulty with finding the right words or expressing thoughts.
- Loss of judgment, including difficulty making decisions or exhibiting poor judgment.
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease progresses in stages, with each stage characterized by increasingly severe symptoms.
- Early stage: In the early stage, symptoms are mild and may include difficulty with memory, language, and decision-making. The person may still be able to perform daily activities independently.
- Middle stage: In the middle stage, symptoms become more pronounced, and the person may require assistance with daily activities such as dressing and bathing. They may also experience changes in personality and behavior, and their memory loss may become more severe.
- Late stage: In the late stage, the person may be unable to communicate, and they may require assistance with all daily activities. They may also experience physical symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, and their immune system may become compromised. Home care can make a difference for patients in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease.
Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease gradually worsens over time. The rate of progression can vary from person to person, and there are a lot of factors that can determine how quickly the illness progresses for individuals. As the disease progresses, the person will require more assistance with daily activities, and their cognitive and physical abilities will continue to decline. Alzheimer’s care providers offer assistance that patients and families rely on in order to keep the patient comfortable and safe.
Alzheimer’s disease is a challenging and complex condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the causes, symptoms, stages, and progression of Alzheimer’s disease helps family caregivers to find the Alzheimer’s care that their family member needs.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s care in Vanceboro, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. New Bern area: (252) 814-6289, Morehead area: (252) 240-1234
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Vanceboro, Havelock, Atlantic Beach, Newport, Harlowe, Emerald Isle, Cape Carteret, Otway, Harkers Island, Davis, Pine Knoll Shores, Fairfield Harbour, Trentwoods, James City, New Bern, Morehead City, and surrounding areas in North Carolina.
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