Receiving a Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or Another Dementia Disease

Last year alone, approximately 500,000 people in the U.S. received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia such as frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body disease and others.  Moreover, even though many families have come to suspect a problem and may not be all that surprised to hear the diagnosis, it is still a devastating blow.    

However, please remember if you or a family member is experiencing confusion and/or memory loss that there are other factors that can masquerade as dementia.  For example, lack of sleep and/or depression and anxiety can result in feelings of confusion.  Also certain medications and medical conditions can have side effects that mimic some of the symptoms of dementia. 

The U.S. News & World Report cautions families that if a loved one is not as sharp as they used to be to make sure that they are protected against scams from unscrupulous people.  You may want to have a family member, trusted friend, or a professional financial advisor help to oversee the person’s finances. 

Another thing you can do to help yourself and your family feel more prepared for what the future holds is to investigate the extent of your community’s resources.  This may include looking into options for in-home care as well as senior living communities that specialize in memory care. 

Experts say one of the most important things to avoid doing after getting a diagnosis of dementia is to assume your life is over.  They stress you need to find reasons for hope and to think about ways to bring joy into your life. Tia Powell, M.D. writes that “music is one wonderful avenue for delight. Your brain's capacity for music is unusually sturdy; the ability to sing, play and enjoy music often outlasts many other skills.”

At MorningStar at Arcadia, a Phoenix assisted living community, we devote 30 secure suites to the specialized, individualized care of those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.  As dementia care experts, each day our energies are put toward continuing to find ways to celebrate and elevate life. Please contact us with questions. 

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:health.usnews.com/health-care/for-better/articles/questions-to-ask-when-youre-diagnosed-with-dementia