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General Information
- Since Alzheimer’s Disease is a slowly
progressive brain disease that begins many years before symptoms emerge, the
supports that are needed and the types of things that can help individuals and
families will change over time as the disease evolves
- The progression of Alzheimer’s Disease and other
types of dementia is highly variable
- Some
medications are available to manage symptoms of dementia, but there are not
currently any medications that can completely treat or cure Alzheimer’s Disease
- Non
–medication management of Alzheimer’s Disease and other types of dementia have the
goal of helping to maintain or improve cognitive function, assisting with the
performance of activities of daily
living and improving overall quality of life. Like medication treatments, they
have not been demonstrated to cure Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
- Managing
coexisting conditions like depression or pain is likely to improve
functioning and quality of life
- Coordination of care between health care
professionals and informal caregivers
(such as family) can maximize independence and quality of life for people with
dementia and their caregivers
- While
there is no clear way to prevent dementia, staying physically active, eating a
balance and nutritious diet, and being socially active and engaged in
meaningful activities can help to protect against the disease or potentially
delay the onset
- Though the care provided by family members of
people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias is somewhat similar to the help
provided by caregivers of people with other chronic conditions, there are also
some important difference. Caregivers of individuals with dementia tend to
provide more extensive assistance and may experience increased burden. There is
often societal stigma towards individuals with dementia and sometimes this can
“spill over’ and negatively impact caregivers and families. This may worsen
social isolation for everyone dealing with the day-to-day experience of coping
with dementia.
- Early
identification of Alzheimer’s Disease and other types of dementia can be
helpful in that individuals with dementia and their families may plan most
effectively to provide appropriate supports as the illness evolves over time
