Alzheimer’s changes the whole brain – It leads to nerve cell death and tissue loss throughout the brain over time the brain shrinks dramatically, affecting nearly all its functions. There is the left side which controls movement on the body’s right side and the right side controls the body’s left side. 

Earliest Alzheimer’s changes may begin 20 years or more before diagnosis and can effect learning, memory, thinking and planning. 

Mild to moderate Alzheimer’s stages generally last from 2- 10 years and also effects memory, thinking, and planning however as a result is serious enough to interfere with work and or social life. Loved one’s may also get confused and have trouble handling money, expressing themselves and/or organizing their thoughts.  As the disease progresses individuals may experience changes in personality and behavior and trouble recognizing family and friends. 

Severe Alzheimer’s may last from 1-5 years.  Most of the cortex is seriously damaged and the brain shrinks dramatically due to cell deaths. Individuals lose their ability to communicate with others as well as themselves. 

If you are having trouble giving your loved one all the support they need as they continue their fight with dementia, it’s okay to ask for help. Call (678) 210-7135 to contact the Provident Village at Creekside in Smyrna, GA. You can also speak to a representative at Provident Village at Canton by calling (770) 450-5135. Both memory care facilities provide dementia care, among their other services designed to give residents a high quality of living. To learn more about daily life in these communities, visit them online.