Next Steps After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
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Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer's Disease
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, you’re far from alone. Over 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and millions more have a family member or loved one living with it. While every stage of Alzheimer's is different and each situation is unique, expert guidance can start you on the way towards managing day-to-day life with Alzheimer’s disease.
Helping Make Life with Alzheimer’s More Livable
UsAgainstAlzheimer’s provides resources to help people with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones understand the disease, enjoy a better quality of life, and undo negative misconceptions about the disease.
Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, knowing how to plan for the future starts with a better understanding of Alzheimer’s stages.
There are 5 distinct Alzheimer’s stages: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Mild, Moderate, Severe, and Very Severe. While symptoms will vary from person to person, there are common aspects for each stage of Alzheimer’s disease. The more you understand about each of them, the better prepared you and your loved ones can be.
Early Stages of Alzheimer’s
Early Alzheimer’s stages are an important time to take action towards better brain health. Recent studies have suggested that there are many lifestyle changes that can help manage and delay the onset of some symptoms. These early Alzheimer’s stages are also the best time to plan ahead for financial, medical, and legal needs.
Tips for Daily Life with Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is different for each person. But millions of people and families are going through the same kinds of changes and problems. Find tips for living with Alzheimer’s for yourself or a loved one.
Research & Clinical Trials
A clinical trial provides the research needed to test new medicines, diagnostics, care, or risk reduction programs. If you or your loved one joins a clinical trial, you may get access to new therapies and the latest research. These trials also help move us all towards better understanding of the disease, leading to improved care and treatment.
There are many factors to consider when participating in Alzheimer’s research, it’s important to find the project that is best for you.
Breaking Down the Stigma
It’s not uncommon for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to feel like they’re being treated differently by people around them. That’s why changing perceptions and educating others on the facts about Alzheimer’s is so important. Sharing your experience can not only help reduce the stigma, but help bring about more support, no matter what stage of Alzheimer’s you or your loved one are experiencing.
Behavioral Symptoms in Alzheimer’s
Agitation is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. It may cause people to become aggressive, anxious, restless, or irritable. If you are caring for someone who becomes agitated, remember that it’s a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Follow some tips and remember to stay calm, acknowledge their feelings, and know that it is not your fault.
Understanding the Connection Between Agitation and Alzheimer’s Disease
More than three-quarters of people with Alzheimer’s experience agitation as a symptom of the disease, presenting a wide range of challenges for both patients and their caregivers. Learn more about agitation associated with Alzheimer’s, how to spot it, and options for how to manage it.
How do People Progress Through the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Each person goes through Alzheimer’s stages at a different speed, with different symptoms. While each person is unique, one consistent fact is that you will need more help as you progress through each stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing symptoms of each stage can help you navigate changes and plan for the future.
With MCI and the mild stage of Alzheimer’s disease, you may not need that much help with day-to-day life. You may repeat questions or take longer to do daily activities, and may have difficulty learning new information.
In the moderate stage, you may need more help with daily activities. Over time, you might need help getting dressed, bathing, and going to the bathroom. You could also start having trouble sleeping.
In the severe and very severe stages, you will likely need continuous care and will need help with most activities of everyday life.
While these topics can be tough, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Millions of Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and there are many local and national resources to help you enjoy a better quality of life.
Understanding the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, knowing how to plan for the future starts with a better understanding of Alzheimer’s stages.
There are 5 distinct Alzheimer’s stages: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Mild, Moderate, Severe, and Very Severe. While symptoms will vary from person to person, there are common aspects for each stage of Alzheimer’s disease. The more you understand about each of them, the better prepared you and your loved ones can be.
Early Stages of Alzheimer’s
Early Alzheimer’s stages are an important time to take action towards better brain health. Recent studies have suggested that there are many lifestyle changes that can help manage and delay the onset of some symptoms. These early Alzheimer’s stages are also the best time to plan ahead for financial, medical, and legal needs.
Tips for Daily Life with Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is different for each person. But millions of people and families are going through the same kinds of changes and problems. Find tips for living with Alzheimer’s for yourself or a loved one.
Research & Clinical Trials
A clinical trial provides the research needed to test new medicines, diagnostics, care, or risk reduction programs. If you or your loved one joins a clinical trial, you may get access to new therapies and the latest research. These trials also help move us all towards better understanding of the disease, leading to improved care and treatment.
There are many factors to consider when participating in Alzheimer’s research, it’s important to find the project that is best for you.
Breaking Down the Stigma
It’s not uncommon for someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s to feel like they’re being treated differently by people around them. That’s why changing perceptions and educating others on the facts about Alzheimer’s is so important. Sharing your experience can not only help reduce the stigma, but help bring about more support, no matter what stage of Alzheimer’s you or your loved one are experiencing.
Behavioral Symptoms in Alzheimer’s
Agitation is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. It may cause people to become aggressive, anxious, restless, or irritable. If you are caring for someone who becomes agitated, remember that it’s a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Follow some tips and remember to stay calm, acknowledge their feelings, and know that it is not your fault.
Understanding the Connection Between Agitation and Alzheimer’s Disease
More than three-quarters of people with Alzheimer’s experience agitation as a symptom of the disease, presenting a wide range of challenges for both patients and their caregivers. Learn more about agitation associated with Alzheimer’s, how to spot it, and options for how to manage it.
How do People Progress Through the Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Each person goes through Alzheimer’s stages at a different speed, with different symptoms. While each person is unique, one consistent fact is that you will need more help as you progress through each stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing symptoms of each stage can help you navigate changes and plan for the future.
With MCI and the mild stage of Alzheimer’s disease, you may not need that much help with day-to-day life. You may repeat questions or take longer to do daily activities, and may have difficulty learning new information.
In the moderate stage, you may need more help with daily activities. Over time, you might need help getting dressed, bathing, and going to the bathroom. You could also start having trouble sleeping.
In the severe and very severe stages, you will likely need continuous care and will need help with most activities of everyday life.
While these topics can be tough, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Millions of Americans are affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia, and there are many local and national resources to help you enjoy a better quality of life.
No Matter Your Stage of Alzheimer’s, There Are Resources for You:
Learn to manage the adjustments that are part of living with Alzheimer’s with reliable information from trusted sources.
Post-Diagnosis: What to Expect Next
© UsAgainstAlzheimer's 2024
© UsAgainstAlzheimer's 2024