1 in 10 Americans over the age of 65 suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. The effects of Alzheimer’s disease are progressive, and at the moment there is no known cure.
It can be a distressing time if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Having an understanding of the effects of Alzheimer’s disease on the individual can help you to prepare and provide support. Let’s take a closer look at 5 top things you should know about the disease.
Some Groups Are at Higher Risk Than Others
Alzheimer’s can affect anyone, but there are certain groups of people who are more prone than others. Two-thirds of Alzheimer’s sufferers are women. This can be attributed to the fact that women generally live longer. It has also been suggested that the hormonal changes that occur during menopause can bring about changes in the brain that can be attributed to the development of Alzheimer’s.
African-Americans and Latinos are also more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than other ethnic groups. Alzheimer’s has also been linked to certain conditions. Too little sleep can make you more susceptible as can being overweight. Heavy alcohol use and depression have also been found to increase the risk of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Is a Fatal Disease
Many people will laugh off the fact that they can’t remember things as they used to as they get older, but Alzheimer’s is not part of the natural aging process. Once the symptoms become noticeable people can expect to live on average 4-8 years, but people have lived as long as 20 years with the disease.
The Most Common Effects of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s is mostly known for its effect on memory, but there are many more symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s include
- Memory loss
- Difficulty solving problems and planning
- Difficulty completing familiar tasks
- Confusion with place and time
- Difficulty judging distances
- Impaired balance
- Difficulty reading and determining colors
- Issues with vocabulary and speaking
- Poor decision making
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Changes in mood
If any of these symptoms are frequently affecting you or a loved one’s quality of life then its crucial to visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Denial Can Prevent Early Detection
The above symptoms can be very subtle when they first start to present themselves. As a result its very common for them to be ignored, but denial can prevent an early diagnosis.
Early detection doesn’t just increase the benefits from available treatments, it also helps to prepare families for the impact of Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease to treat in the US, so it is important that families have the time needed to plan ahead.
You Can Reduce the Risk of Cognitive Decline
While you might not be able to cure Alzheimer’s, you can certainly slow down its progression. Exercising regularly, ensuring you get enough sleep, and taking nootropics such as dihexa can help to reduce cognitive decline. Eating a balanced diet and choosing to stay socially engaged are also important in reducing the disease’s progression.
Support Is Available
Being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s can be a crushing blow, but the right support is out there. Living a healthy and active life while staying mentally engaged can help to slow down the disease’s progression. In addition to friends and family, there are a number of support groups all over the country to help you get the help you need with the effects of Alzheimer’s.
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Feature photo by Andrea Piacquadio
