Alzheimer Awareness

November is Alzheimer Awareness month. Those of us who have a relative fighting the disease know only too well how devastating it can be, not only for the person suffering but for those around him or her.

     Memory impairment and Alzheimer are increasing at an alarming rate. Now 1 in 8 seniors is affected while the disease’s early onset, i.e. before the age of 65, is appearing more frequently.

          We are all aware of the steps we need to take to lessen the risk of dementia—keeping mentally active certainly heads the list. We all know that that our minds are capable of learning new things even in very old age, yet some people think that once they reach a certain age, there is no need to learn or try anything new. In my view they are letting life pass them by and at the same time not helping their future. There is lots of information available on line or at local libraries on how to lessen the risks of dementia and Alzheimer.

Recognizing the signs of dementia in those around us is also very important. A few years ago, a close relative began having some problems and many everyday tasks were not properly attended to which to me was indicative of Alzheimer. Other family members simply dismissed my worries because they were convinced (or convinced themselves) that there was nothing wrong with her. I have often wondered if they simply refused to accept a very painful reality.

I was proven right when a police officer called in the middle of the night to say that my relative needed care. She had called the police several times because the wind was too loud!

This month is a good time to watch out for unusual behavior. Burying one’s head in the sand does not stop or alter anything. Experience has taught me that those who are affected with dementia should be diagnosed early so they can benefit from treatment and care.