Alzheimer’s Care — Alberta
Alzheimer’s disease is a devastating, degenerative neurological condition which attacks the brain and central nervous system and eventually leads to a crippling dementia. Affecting mood, memory, emotions, and behaviour, Alzheimer’s gradually robs a person of their ability to function normally and support themselves. Alzheimer’s patients must eventually have around-the-clock care in an institutional setting such as a nursing home, or by a caring relative, spouse, or friend. Alzheimer’s has the ability to cause death, but not everyone with Alzheimer’s dies directly as a result of the disease.
The Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s progresses in several recognizable stages. These are: the Early Stage, Middle Stage, Late Stage, and End of Life.
During the Early Stage, people with Alzheimer’s begin to experience forgetfulness, difficulty in communicating, and changes in their mood or behaviour. They do not yet require much care, and can be involved in the process of planning for their own future with the disease.
During the Middle Stage, cognitive abilities deteriorate further and patients require more assistance with simple daily tasks. The Alzheimer’s patient might still be somewhat aware that they are suffering from the disease.
During the Late Stage, individuals need 24-hour care. Eventually, they become unable to verbally communicate at all. End of Life Stage is the final stage of Alzheimer’s, and the caregiver’s goal becomes affording the most comfort possible to the person living with Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Resources in Alberta
The Alzheimer Society of Alberta is a useful source of information for those Alberta residents who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or for those who are caring for the disease. Providing education, supporting research into the disease, and the offering latest news on Alzheimer’s, the Society also offers workshops, fundraisers, and support groups for those living with Alzheimer’s or those caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s.
Tags: aging trends, Alzheimer's Care Alberta, Alzheimers, Alzheimers's care, caregiving, Elder Care
