Caregivers of Older Adults Blog | Alzheimer's (2)

The subject of intimacy can be an uncomfortable one for individuals with dementia and their caregivers alike. Factor in ongoing changes to sexual feelings and behaviors caused by Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, and the challenges become even greater. Let's take a closer look at common intimacy-related dilemmas faced by caregivers (including spouses) along with highlighting coping and management techniques.

Though more than 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer's disease, public knowledge about the condition is scant. Many people don't know much about it, and the little they have learned most likely came from popular media, such as movies and TV shows. By 2050, it is expected that the number of people afflicted by the condition will almost triple because of the aging of the general population at large, meaning it's increasingly important for people to understand the symptoms of Alzheimer's and the treatments available. 

No matter how old you are, sleeping is essential for health and well-being, and the "Importance of Sleep for Seniors" cannot be overlooked. Scientists are increasingly advancing our knowledge of the link between Alzheimer's disease and sleep, including recent groundbreaking research from the Washington University's Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center indicating that there's a "bidirectional relationship" between the development of the disease and sleep and circadian problems. The takeaway? In addition to being a common symptom of Alzheimer's disease, sleep problems may also be an early indicator of the disease. In either case, the more caregivers understand about sleep and Alzheimer's, the more they can help both themselves and the people for whom they care, to enjoy more restful sleep.

Sleep is a vital part of wellness for people with Alzheimer's -- and their caregivers.

The inability to recognize beloved people, familiar places and cherished things is a symptom of late-stage Alzheimer's disease. Unfortunately, coping with memory loss can be heartbreaking for patients, their families, and caregivers alike. But is there hope that memories lost to Alzheimer's disease will one day be retrievable? Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology say, "Yes." Let's take a closer look at the research, along with what it means for the millions of people affected by Alzheimer's disease.

Are memories really lost and gone forever in Alzheimer's patients?

Stephan Baldwin is the Director of Business Development for Assisted Living Center, an online resource for aging care communities.

Dementia is a terrible disease that affects more people in the world than most people realize. It is quick-acting, harsh, and can take away every part of what a person once was while leaving their body seemingly healthy.

Communicating with loved ones suffering from dementia can be frustrating, but also rewarding.

With millions of people currently living with Alzheimer's disease and the number expected to continue to skyrocket in the years ahead, its potential impact is massive. And while we often think of Alzheimer's in terms of its cost to individual patients and their families, the increasing prevalence of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia highlights degenerative brain disease as a serious threat to public health demanding comprehensive, community-based action. Let's take a closer look at some initiatives which are stepping up and taking action.

Coping with grief, especially over the loss of a beloved person in our lives, is a difficult process for everyone. But for our loved ones who have Alzheimer’s disease, the struggle can be even greater. Because the illness includes symptoms such as memory loss, confusion and difficulty recognizing even close family members and friends, the simple comprehension that a loved one has passed away adds a complex layer to an already unimaginable time for both the Alzheimer’s victim and those closest to them.

Dealing with loss is a different experience for everyone, regardless of their health condition. But there are some ways you may be able to help your loved one with Alzheimer’s handle her heartache in as healthy a manner as possible. Here are a few tips on helping them cope:

People with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia have different care requirements than those in conventional assisted living settings. Are you wondering whether memory care is the best option for your aging loved one? Read on to learn more about memory care, along with what family members can expect from this type of care facility.

Memory care therapy can relieve stress and stimulate memories.

Wandering and elopement are common yet problematic behaviors among seniors with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. In fact, more than 34,000 patients with Alzheimer's wander out of their homes annually; in institutionalized settings, it is estimated that as many as 24 percent of patients wander. Unfortunately, as the population continues to age, incidences of wandering and elopement are also increasing. Let's take a closer look at this issue, along with coping and prevention methods. 

If your loved one suffers from dementia, wandering may be a threat.

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease can feel overwhelming, and early treatment is essential to ensuring access to the very best care. If your aging loved one has recently received an Alzheimer's diagnosis and is in the beginning stages of the illness, here's what you need to know.