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Family’s Guide: What You Need to Know About Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a complex and often misunderstood condition that affects millions of families worldwide
Homelium has created this family guide during World Alzheimer’s Month to support you and raise awareness of this dreadful disease.
Dementia is a condition with over 200 associated diseases, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s.
It affects memory, thinking, and behaviour, making it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities
Whether you’re just noticing symptoms in a loved one or have been caring for someone with Alzheimer’s for years, this Homelium guide will help you understand the disease and provide practical ways to adapt to its challenges.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that typically affects people over 65, though it can also occur in younger individuals, known as early-onset Alzheimer’s.
The disease is characterised by the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles in the brain, leading to cell death and gradual cognitive decline.
Beta-amyloid (said like BAY-tuh AM-uh-loyd) plagues for those who don’t know are the deposits of protein fragments that build up in the spaces between the brain’s nerve cells.
Tangles for those who don’t know are twisted fibres of another protein called Tau (rhymes with “wow”) that build up inside the cells in the brain.
Alzheimer’s is often mistaken for normal ageing.
Although studies show that most people develop some plaques and tangles as they get older, in people with Alzheimer’s, this process is more pronounced and progresses more quickly, following a predictable pattern.
It typically starts with memory loss before spreading to other regions of the brain.
This is not a natural part of the ageing process.
Alzheimer’s involves the destruction and death of nerve cells, which initially causes memory failure.
As the disease progresses, it leads to changes in personality and the inability to carry out daily activities.
The average human brain contains approximately “86 – 100 billion neurons” (nerve cells) and a similar number of glial cells, which support and protect neurons.
These cells work together to control cognitive functions, memory, and bodily processes.
In “late-stage Alzheimer’s disease”, significant neuron death occurs.
It’s estimated that Alzheimer’s can destroy “up to 30% of the brain’s mass” due to the widespread death of neurons.
While the exact number of neurons lost is difficult to pinpoint, it’s clear that many billions of cells die as the disease progresses, contributing to the loss of cognitive and physical abilities.
In the final stages, areas of the brain responsible for memory, language, and basic life functions (such as breathing and heart rate regulation) are heavily impacted by neuron loss.
It’s important to recognise the early signs to ensure proper care and support for those affected.
“The average human brain contains approximately “86 – 100 billion neurons” (nerve cells). “
Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Recognising the symptoms of Alzheimer’s is crucial for early diagnosis and intervention.
Symptoms often vary by stage but typically on average follow a predictable pattern of decline.
*Please note these are done on averages and in typical cases, all loved ones may differ.
Early Symptoms:
Memory loss that disrupts daily life (e.g., forgetting recent events)
Difficulty planning or solving problems
Trouble with familiar tasks (e.g., managing a budget)
Confusion about time or place
Misplacing items and difficulty retracing steps
Changes in mood or personality, such as increased irritability or anxiety
Middle-Stage Symptoms (Moderate Alzheimer’s):
More severe memory loss, including forgetting personal history
Difficulty recognising friends or family
Increased confusion and frustration
Wandering or getting lost
Difficulty with language and communication
Late-Stage Symptoms (Severe Alzheimer’s):
Loss of awareness of surroundings
Inability to communicate or control movement
Difficulty swallowing and controlling basic bodily functions
Dependence on others for all daily activities
Each stage of Alzheimer’s presents unique challenges, both for the individual and their caregivers.
Early recognition of symptoms can help families prepare for the disease’s progression and seek appropriate care.
“Dementia is a condition with over 200 associated diseases, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s.”
Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is typically divided into three broad stages: early, middle, and late.
Understanding these stages can help families adapt to their loved one’s changing needs.
Early stage (mild Alzheimer’s): People in this stage may live independently but might experience mild forgetfulness, trouble concentrating, and subtle cognitive changes.
They may need reminders for appointments or tasks but can still participate in daily life with minimal support.
Middle stage (moderate Alzheimer’s): At this stage, memory and cognitive function decline more significantly.
The individual may struggle to recognise familiar people or places, have trouble following conversations, and require help with personal care tasks.
This stage often lasts the longest.
Late stage (severe Alzheimer’s): Individuals in the late stage of Alzheimer’s lose the ability to communicate and respond to their environment.
They require full-time care, often losing the ability to eat, walk, or perform other basic functions.
Understanding the stages helps families prepare for the increasing levels of care their loved one will need.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s is emotionally and physically challenging but being informed can make a huge difference.
At Homelium, we have a Facebook group called Caring For Your Elderly Loved Ones, which is free to join and provides support to anyone caring for their loved ones or wanting to learn more. We hand-pick the best-mixed media to educate, entertain, and inform our members. Join here
How Families Can Adapt to Life with Alzheimer’s
Adapting to life with Alzheimer’s involves adjusting both emotionally and practically.
Here are some tips for each stage of the disease:
In the Early Stages:
Use memory aids such as calendars, to-do lists, or smartphone reminders to help the individual stay organised.
Simplify the environment to reduce distractions and help the person focus on tasks.
Plan for the future: It’s a good time to discuss legal, financial, and care arrangements before symptoms worsen.
In the Middle Stages:
Maintain a routine: Establishing daily routines can reduce confusion and anxiety for both the individual and caregivers.
Adjust communication: Use simple sentences, maintain eye contact, and allow extra time for responses.
Safety first: Make modifications at home, such as installing locks or GPS trackers, to ensure the person doesn’t wander off.
In the Late Stages:
Consider professional care: When full-time care is required, families may consider live-in carers to keep everything as normal as possible for your loved ones.
Professional caregivers can provide specialised support while offering families much-needed respite.
Focus on comfort: At this stage, providing comfort, ensuring nutrition, and preventing infections are top priorities.
“It’s estimated that Alzheimer’s can destroy “up to 30% of the brain’s mass” due to the widespread death of neurons.”
Support and Resources for Families
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a long and emotional journey.
Fortunately, there are many resources available to help families navigate this challenge:
Alzheimer’s support groups: Online and in-person groups can offer emotional support and practical advice from others who are experiencing similar struggles.
Like our Facebook Group Caring For Your Elderly Loved Ones, which is free to join and provides support to anyone caring for their loved ones or wanting to learn more.
Respite care: Temporary care services can give caregivers a break to focus on their own well-being, which is crucial for maintaining long-term caregiving capacity.
In-home care services: Many families turn to professional in-home care providers like Homelium who specialise in Alzheimer’s care.
These services offer personalised care for individuals in familiar surroundings, often improving their quality of life.
Families should also seek help from healthcare providers to ensure their loved one receives the best possible medical care and management.
By understanding Alzheimer’s symptoms, the stages of the disease, and practical caregiving strategies, families can better prepare for the challenges ahead. Alzheimer’s is an emotional journey, but with the right support and resources, families don’t have to face it alone.
At Homelium, we provide specialised care for loved ones living with Alzheimer’s.
One of our top priorities is ensuring consistency in their care plan, which is crucial for their well-being.
We help maintain familiar routines, keep them in the comfort of their own home, and ensure they have the same diet and comforts they are accustomed to.
Our dedicated team focuses on creating a stable, supportive environment, giving your loved one the personalised care they need in a place where they feel safe.
