Dealing with a Diagnoses of Alzheimer’s Disease

If you have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you are not alone.  It is estimated that 5.8 million Americans have Alzheimer's, and one in ten people age 65 years and older has the disease.  As a way to help families impacted by the disease, the Alzheimer’s Association provides a variety of resources and services. 

A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s brings with it a range of emotions. Learning that you have a disease with no cure and no way to control what is happening to you can create feelings of anger, denial, depression and resentment as well as fear.  Another common emotion is isolation and the feeling that no one else understands what you are going through. There can even be a sense of relief at finding out what is happening to you and having those concerns validated. 

The Alzheimer’s Association counsels that it helps to try and come to terms with your diagnosis and the emotions you are experiencing as a way to help you to move forward.  They explain that, “once you make the commitment to take care of your emotional needs; you may find that you can rise to the challenge and face your diagnosis.”  

You will find helpful coping tips on their website to make it easier to deal with what you are going through.  One of their most important suggestions is to have good support whether it comes from joining a support group, sharing concerns with family and friends, or talking to a counselor or member of the clergy.  They also say to continue to do the activities you enjoy for as long as you are able. Finally they remind individuals to take time to “feel sad, mourn and grieve.” 

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living and memory care community, our secure and loving Reflections Neighborhood is devoted to the care of those with mild to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and other dementia related diseases.  We leverage the power of music, dance, art, aromatherapy, and animals to heal and comfort residents, while taking into consideration the uniqueness of each person. Our team works every day to make a difference in the lives of our special residents. 

MorningStar at Arcadia represents the best in Phoenix assisted living with a unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Call to schedule a tour of our exceptional community.
Source: alz.org/help-support/i-have-alz