Your loved one’s diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can cause significant anxiety for both of you. You may feel unprepared to practice proper dementia care for them as the illness progresses. That’s why you’ll benefit from learning what the disease is and how professionals treat it. 

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

The most common cause of dementia, Alzheimer's disease is a disorder that causes brain cells to degenerate and die. Your relative with Alzheimer’s may experience issues with their memory, reasoning ability, and behavior. The disorder’s exact causes are unknown. However, risk factors can include aging, Down syndrome, severe head trauma, and poor sleep patterns. Risk factors associated with heart disease, such as lack of exercise, smoking, and poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes, can also contribute to Alzheimer’s. Your loved one also has a higher chance of developing the disease if it runs in the family. 

Symptoms & Treatment Options

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease, meaning symptoms worsen over time. Initially, your relative may experience only mild memory loss; for instance, they may have trouble remembering newly learned information. However, as the disease progresses, they may experience more severe symptoms such as difficulties with multitasking, decision-making, speaking, swallowing, walking, and responding to their environment. 

Although there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s, medications known as cholinesterase inhibitors can reduce certain symptoms and slow the disease’s progression. Also, antidepressant, anti-anxiety, and antipsychotic medications may be prescribed to treat symptoms like mood swings and delusions.

Caregivers can also provide non-medication dementia care by creating a peaceful environment, monitoring comfort levels, providing a security object, and remaining calm and non-confrontational when interacting with the patient. 

People with Alzheimer’s disease require continuous, compassionate dementia care. At Country Villa Assisted Living in Omro, Freedom, and Pulaski, WI, residents enjoy calming country scenery and daily senior activities like games, crafts, movies, and gardening. The experienced care team provides 24/7 supervision of residents. The facility also offers respite care for families and caregivers who need to recharge. Visit them online to learn more about each facility, and call (920) 422-4620 to speak with a representative about their commitment to exceptional care today.