Memory Loss Medication Options

Alzheimer's disease currently affects over 5.7 million people and is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Memory loss medication can't stop or slow down the progression of this disease, but they can help manage many of the common symptoms that go hand in hand with it. Alzheimer's disease is a brain disorder that is progressive and irreversible. It slowly starts to destroy a person's cognitive skills and their memory. Eventually, it progresses far enough that people who have it can't carry out simple everyday tasks. Medical experts generally split this disease into two different categories including: Late-Onset Alzheimer's - With this type of Alzheimer's, people generally start showing common symptoms in their mid-60s. This is the most common type of Alzheimer's disease. Early-Onset Alzheimer's - This type of Alzheimer's disease is very rare,…

Continue ReadingMemory Loss Medication Options

San Diego Memory Care and the Seven Stages of Dementia

Understanding the symptoms associated with the various stages of dementia will help you make the decision about the right time to seek San Diego memory care for your loved one. Early on, it is easy to miss the signs of dementia, especially when the person lives alone. People often refer to the “early stages of dementia” or, later on, to more “advanced stages,” during which symptoms become more apparent. In fact, there are seven distinct stages, which are based on the symptoms experienced at any point in the progression of the disease. Doctors often use the Reisberg Scale, often called the GDS, to separate the seven stages of the disease. Although this scale includes multiple stages within the categories of “No Dementia” and “Mid-Stage Dementia”, it further separates the symptoms for a more accurate diagnosis. This…

Continue ReadingSan Diego Memory Care and the Seven Stages of Dementia

Nine Top Risk Factors for Dementia

Dementia is a broad term that refers to overall cognitive decline, including Alzheimer's disease. There are many risk factors that can increase a person's likelihood of developing the condition later in life. It is important to note that risk factors are not causes; just because you have one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that you will develop dementia. It merely means that your chances of developing the condition are higher than those of someone who doesn't exhibit any risk factors. Some risk factors are within your control, while others are not.  Nine Top Risk Factors for Dementia Age  Age is the strongest risk factor for dementia. Although it is possible to develop dementia at a younger age, the vast majority of cases occur in individuals aged 65 or over. In fact, once you…

Continue ReadingNine Top Risk Factors for Dementia

Choosing a Dementia Residential Care Home

Choosing a dementia residential care home is not something a person usually does for themselves. The fact that they are often looking for a place for a loved one to live out the rest of their lives makes it even more challenging. Even when you know your loved one’s condition means they are no longer safe, making the decision to move them is often one that causes a great deal of guilt. If you struggle with the decision of when to put your loved one into a dementia residential care home, you aren’t alone. More adults find themselves facing the fact that in-home care is more demanding on them than they ever imagined. Most adults have other responsibilities that prevent them from giving the round-the-clock care that dementia patients eventually need. Instead of taking on a…

Continue ReadingChoosing a Dementia Residential Care Home

Memory Care or Assisted Living? Making the Best Choice for Mom or Dad

Senior care facilities come in many types, such as memory care and assisted living, and choosing the best community for your mother or father can be confusing. Rule of thumb is that the right place will help keep your parent safe, while also maximizing his or her independence. To make this decision, you need to know details about your parent’s condition and needs, as well as understand the definitions of the types of care facilities available. Let’s break down these issues with a basic Q & A.  What is Assisted Living? The primary definition of assisted living is a long-term senior care option that offers supportive aid, health services, and housing. Essential services often include transportation, medical management, and 24-hour emergency care. Mom or Dad will be able to ask the staff for assistance with daily…

Continue ReadingMemory Care or Assisted Living? Making the Best Choice for Mom or Dad

Assisted Living for Memory Care. Why is it the best option?

For many Alzheimer’s dementia patients, an Assisted Living for Memory Care facility is the best option. These facilities are specifically structured to cater to their daily needs and support them in ways that can be difficult at home. Ongoing social engagement, a range of cognitive and physical therapies and an environment designed to encourage independent movement while still being safe, are a combination of things that most of us, as much as we want to, simply can’t provide for our loved ones on our own. It can be a challenge to find the right facility, but once you do, it can result in noticeable improvements in the physical and mental wellness of a dementia patient. They are likely to thrive and keep as healthy, functional, interactive and relaxed as possible, while also easing some of the…

Continue ReadingAssisted Living for Memory Care. Why is it the best option?