Category Archives: Alzheimer’s Disease

Caregivers report that one of their greatest needs is for emotional support, second only to the need for time off. Many have no one to talk to about the problems they face in caring for a demented family member. The … Continue reading →

In the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, the person is able to both perform self-care activities and function socially. Initially, changes in behavior may be subtle and infrequent. During this stage the person may deny the presence of any abnormality … Continue reading →

The story of a woman who was being examined in court for possible jury duty. She looked up at the judge and said, “I am sorry, your honor, I can’t serve on the jury. I don’t believe in capital punishment. … Continue reading →

The Functional Rating Scale Symptoms Of Dementia: This scale was developed by J. Thomas Hutton and his associates to measure changes in everyday behavior, such as eating and dressing, that appeared to be most noticeably affected by the disease. The … Continue reading →

Developing a support group takes planning and commitment from the organizers. The first step we took to create our group was to contact the Alzheimer’s Association for information on the disease and on how to start a group. The association … Continue reading →

Family members often ask if keeping the Alzheimer patient active involved, and stimulated can stop the progression of the disease. While such intervention cannot “cure” or halt the dementing process, patients who are kept active and encouraged to take responsibility … Continue reading →

Caregivers Are Frequently Divided InTo Two Categories – 1.Primary 2. Secondary A primary caregiver is typically the spouse who lives with the demented person. Although estimates vary, one survey reported that 55 percent of caregivers are spouses, 35 percent are … Continue reading →

Alzheimer caregivers should learn to be assertive in asking friends and relatives for what they need. Often others would like to help but don’t, know how. Make a wish list of errands or weekly jobs that need to be done, … Continue reading →

There are over four million people in America who have a dementing illness. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, that number is expected increase to fourteen million within the next fifty years unless a cure or prevention is found. If only … Continue reading →

More complicated problems attendant to Alzheimer’s disease involve open or hidden conflicts between two or more of the patient’s relatives. Frequently, such conflicts have their roots in the past relationships of the individuals involved. Open conflict in families of Alzheimer … Continue reading →