Alzheimer’s is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain, causing memory loss, mood changes, and difficulty with thinking and reasoning. The condition is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and the most common form of dementia. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s, and currently available treatments can only temporarily slow the progression of the disease.
Educating yourself about Alzheimer’s is the first step in creating a supportive environment for a loved one with the disease. Learning about the disease will help you understand the changes your loved one is going through and how to support them best. The symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease typically appear in middle or late adulthood and include memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with speaking and writing. As the disease progresses, patients may also experience mood swings, sleep disturbance, and difficulty with basic activities of daily living. Keep reading to learn more.
What is The Fisher Center Alzheimer’s Foundation?
The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation is a non-profit Alzheimer’s foundation committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s and supporting those affected by the disease. The Fisher Center funds cutting-edge research into the causes, prevention, and treatment of Alzheimer’s. They work with the best and brightest minds in the field, and their research has already made significant progress in understanding and combating this devastating disease.
The Foundation provides several resources and services for families affected by Alzheimer’s. They offer a toll-free helpline, support groups, and information and referral services. They also publish various helpful publications, including a caregiving guide, a guide to choosing a memory care facility, and a guide to financial planning for people with Alzheimer’s.
The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation is a leader in Alzheimer’s disease research. The Foundation’s research grants have helped to:
- Discover the role of amyloid beta in the development of Alzheimer’s disease
- Develop new treatments that target amyloid beta
- Identify genetic risk factors for Alzheimer’s
- Identify new therapies for mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease
- Test new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease in clinical trials
The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation is committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. With the help of the Foundation’s research grants, scientists are one step closer to finding a cure for this devastating disease.
Learn how to communicate with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s.
One of the most important things in creating a supportive environment for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is to learn how to communicate with them. This means understanding that they may not be able to express themselves the way they used to and sometimes may not be able to communicate at all. It’s important to speak slowly and clearly, and use simple words and phrases. A great way to start is by talking about things that are familiar to them, such as what they did that day or what they’re wearing. You can also try communicating through gestures or pictures.
It’s also important to remember that people with Alzheimer’s may become agitated easily, so it’s best to avoid confrontation and try to find ways to soothe them. This might mean adjusting your tone of voice, speaking calmly and reassuringly, or providing comfort through touch. It’s also important not to expect too much from them; just because someone has Alzheimer’s disease doesn’t mean they’re no longer capable of doing anything. Instead, try finding tasks or activities they can still comfortably enjoy.
Finally, it’s important to stay positive around your loved one. They will likely pick up on your moods and emotions, so if you’re stressed out or frustrated, it will only make things harder for them. Try taking time for yourself daily to relax and recharge, then come back feeling refreshed and ready to support your loved one.
Creating a supportive environment for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease is necessary for their overall well-being. A supportive environment can provide comfort and security for the individual and help minimize the stress and anxiety associated with the disease. It’s important to remember that everyone with Alzheimer’s is unique, so it’s essential to tailor the level of support to meet the individual’s needs.
