After a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease

Receiving a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is devastating for the person as well as their spouse, children and other family and friends. While you may be left wondering what to do next, experts say start with getting prepared. 

Unfortunately, we do not have a cure for AD, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, and planning for the future is critical. Experts recommend “Any dementia patient who is still mentally competent should focus on making medical, legal and financial preparations with their loved ones as soon as possible.”  In addition to long-term planning, it is also important to prioritize healthy Alzheimer Assisted living and address any issues.

Dementia care specialists say getting good medical care is important and will probably include your doctor prescribing Alzheimer’s medications to help minimize symptoms for a period of time. Memory loss, confusion and other types of behaviors make it difficult for a person to manage the ADLs (activities of daily living), and over time, they will need more daily supervision and care. When it becomes more than a family can manage at home, other solutions such as a memory care community need to be considered.

In the early stages of the disease, memory and focus can come and go, and it is important to evaluate the person’s fitness for doing things like driving, cooking unsupervised, and in some cases, going out alone. As the disease progresses, these activities are most likely not a good idea. 

While still able to make decisions, encourage the person to prepare legal documents such as a durable power of attorney (POA) for health care and a durable power of attorney for finances. Consulting an elder law attorney is helpful. Other suggestions include staying physically and mentally active and eating a healthy diet. 

Morningstar at Bear Creek is devoted to caring for those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Every aspect of our care is tailored to serve the needs of our tender residents from a team of exceptional caregivers to meals, wellness programs and services.   For memory care Colorado Springs families can count on, we encourage you to contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing seniors and investing in a staff with a felt calling to serve, we offer loving, compassionate care within a beautiful home-like setting.  Please contact us to learn more about the finest memory care Colorado Springs offers.

Source: agingcare.com/articles/what-happens-after-alzheimers-diagnosis-154289.htm