Alzheimer's & Dementia Care
Dementia is a group of cognitive and psychological symptoms affecting memory, thinking and social abilities. As changes in the brain progress, declines in thinking skills, reasoning and behavior affect a person's ability to function independently.
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of progressive dementia. A few conditions that cause symptoms of dementia are reversible, but most types of dementia, like Alzheimer's, cause permanent brain changes, and worsen over time.
Symptoms of dementia vary greatly. If you are noticing changes in thinking, behavior or memory, seek a professional evaluation. Early diagnosis allows for the best plan of care.
Whether you are providing hands-on care or participating in making care decisions, AgingCare has resources to help. Browse our collection of informative articles, Alzheimer’s Q&A, and dementia discussions. Find the support of other dementia caregivers in AgingCare’s online Caregiver Forum -a community of caregivers who truly understand.
Alzheimer's & Dementia Articles
Early Signs of Dementia: When To Be Concerned
The early stage of dementia is often difficult to detect since symptoms and age of onset can vary. Keep an eye out for these warning signs.
76 CommentsEarly Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Is Crucial for Effective Planning and Treatment
Half of all patients with Alzheimer’s are already in the moderate to severe stages of the disease by the time they are diagnosed. Increased attention to the early stages of AD is essential for proper treatment, planning and caregiver support.
5 CommentsThe Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease
The only certainty when diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease is that a senior’s condition will progressively worsen. The national Alzheimer’s Association has developed a very useful staging system to use as a frame of reference when coping with AD.
98 CommentsTips for Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s At Home
Many families are committed to caring for Alzheimer’s patients at home for as long as possible. Incorporate these tips and strategies into your daily routine to ensure a safe and successful in-home care experience.
9 CommentsIs Using Validation for Dementia Calming or Condescending?
Seniors with dementia often live in an altered reality that can sometimes be upsetting. Validating their perceptions and feelings is the kindest, most respectful way to handle confusion, hallucinations and delusions.
125 CommentsWhy Do People Die From Alzheimer’s Disease?
The most noticeable symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is memory loss, but this progressive condition ultimately weakens the immune system and prevents the body from functioning properly. Complications like infections are often the cause of death.
53 Comments
Alzheimer's & Dementia Questions
My 89yo dad lives with my husband and I. I am his full time caregiver.The past few days he has thought I’m his wife. How do we handle?
18 AnswersHonorAble Answered 3 hours agoAny thoughts as to how/why someone with dementia can go from being virtually catatonic to a reasonable state of cognition?
14 Answersdfctvsncbrth63 Answered 6 hours agoShould I try to reassure my Mom that what she thinks is not true?
7 AnswersPeasuep Answered 7 hours agoMy mom is in hospice at my home. She kept saying last night turnaround please turnaround. What does this mean?
6 AnswersCaringWifeAZ Replied 7 hours ago
Alzheimer's & Dementia Discussions
I wrote this essay to help others navigate the journey of having a loved one with Alzheimer's after losing my father to the disease.
2 CommentsAlvaDeer Commented 10 hours agoHow to know when it’s time for facility placement?
3 Commentsfunkygrandma59 Commented Dec 6, 2024Update on my mom's UTI.
7 Commentsmommabeans Commented Dec 2, 2024I am legal guardian of my husband, how do I get money from him?
4 Commentsmommabeans Commented Dec 2, 2024
