Alzheimer's & Dementia FAQs

As you and your loved one begin the Alzheimer's journey, we know that the options and services and programs can seem a little overwhelming. We've put together the most common questions we get in the FAQs below but, as always, please do not hesitate to contact us with further questions. We're here to help!

Questions About Alzheimer's Disease

What is dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome (set of symptoms) characterized by a gradual decline in mental abilities, such as memory, personality, behavior and thought. Dementia symptoms can be caused by any number of different diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and Vascular Dementia. When a person exhibits signs of dementia, further medical evaluation is warranted to distinguish what type of dementia he/she may be experiencing, as well as to rule out potentially treatable/reversible causes of cognitive decline, such as vitamin deficiency, thyroid imbalance or depression.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease is one condition that causes dementia. Decline in short-term memroy is commonly an early symptom, with loss of other mental abilities, such as judgement, decision-making ability, self-control, insight and language skills increasing over time. Alzheimer's disease is a physical disease process, characterized by plaques and tangles in the brain of the affected person. Current treatments may delay the progression of symptoms, but do not stop or reverse the underlying disease process.

What are some of the early signs that someone may be experiencing Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia?

Some early warning signs of Alzheimer's disease include:

• Memory loss, particularly for recent events;
• Difficulty with complex tasks that were once routine, such as managing finances;
• Personality changes;
• Changes in language skills, such as difficulty in finding the right word when speaking.
• Individuals with early-stage dementia or Alzheimer's disease often appear 'normal' at first, but their deficits may interfere with their ability to perform certain tasks and follow daily routines.

What are common symptoms as the disease progresses?

Over time, dementia symptoms become more severe, and the person becomes more dependent upon a caregiver for assistance with activities of daily living.

Memory impairment becomes more pronounced, and the person may experience disorientation to place and/or time.

Increasing language difficulties, impaired ability to perform skilled movement, loss of inhibition and restlessness often occur.

Behavioral changes and/or agitation may take place.

Over time, physical manifestations, such as difficulty with coordinating movements and difficulty swallowing, occur.

What can people living with Alzheimer's disease and related dementia do to improve quality of life?

There are many things that people with dementia can do to enhance their daily lives. Programs and services exist to help the affected individual find opportunities for enjoyment, mental activity and social connection. Caregiver services can be invaluable to family members seeking information, support, resources and respite. For more information, contact the Long Island Alzheimer's and Dementia Center.

Simple Tips for Daily Tasks

Reduce frustrations

A person who has Alzheimer's might become agitated when once-simple tasks become difficult or impossible. To limit challenges and ease frustration:

• Schedule wisely. Establish a routine to make each day more predictable and less confusing. Schedule the most difficult tasks, such as bathing or medical appointments, for the time of day when your loved one tends to be most calm and agreeable.
• Take your time. Expect things to take longer than they used to. Schedule more time to complete tasks so that you don't need to hurry your loved one.
• Involve your loved one. Allow your loved one to do as much as possible with the least amount of assistance. For example, perhaps your loved one can dress alone if you lay out the clothes in the order they go on.
• Limit choices. The fewer the options, the easier it is to decide. For example, provide two outfits to choose between — not a closet full of clothes. Eliminate belts or accessories that are likely to be put on incorrectly.
• Provide simple instructions. When you ask your loved one to do something, do it one step at a time.
• Reduce distractions. Turn off the TV and minimize other distractions at mealtime and during conversations so that your loved one can better focus on the task at hand.

Be flexible

Your loved one's ability to function and cope will steadily decline. It might even vary from day to day. Try to stay flexible and adapt your routine as needed.

For example, if a favorite food suddenly becomes unappealing to your loved one, adjust the menu. If your loved one starts insisting on wearing the same outfit every day, consider buying a few identical outfits. When your loved one is bathing, switch the worn outfit for a clean one.

You might also relax your standards a bit. Bathing, for example, might not be necessary every day — especially if it's upsetting for your loved one. Try sponge baths between showers or tub baths.

Create a safe environment

Alzheimer's disease impairs judgment and problem-solving skills, increasing your loved one's risk of injury. To keep your loved one safe:

• Prevent falls. Avoid scatter rugs, extension cords and any clutter that could cause your loved one to trip or fall. Install handrails or grab bars in critical areas.
• Use locks. Install locks on cabinets that contain anything potentially dangerous, such as medicine, alcohol, guns, toxic cleaning substances, dangerous utensils and tools.
• Check water temperature. Lower the thermostat on the hot-water heater to prevent burns.
• Take fire safety precautions. Keep matches and lighters out of reach. If your loved one smokes, make sure he or she does so only with supervision. Make sure a fire extinguisher is accessible, and the smoke alarms have fresh batteries.

Focus on individualized care

Each person who has Alzheimer's will experience its symptoms and progression differently. Consequently, caregiving techniques need to vary. Tailor these practical tips to your loved one's individual needs.

Remember, your loved one's responses and behaviors might be different from what they used to be. Patience and flexibility — along with good self-care and the support of friends and family — can help you deal with the challenges and frustrations ahead.