Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimers is a very common disease that affects millions of U.S. citizens every year. Symptoms of Alzheimers can vary from simple confusion and memory loss, to having trouble holding a conversation due to not knowing how to continue or repeating themselves. As a result of not being able to hold a conversation, people living with Alzheimers often stop participating in their normal hobbies or social activities.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month was designated in 1983 by President Ronald Reagan. At that time, around two million people were diagnosed with the disease. Since then, the number of people diagnosed has grown to be about five million. 

The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is an organization with the goal to provide support, education, and services to individuals and families that are affected by the disease nationwide. They also fund research for better treatment and a cure.

There are currently no cures for this disease, and because of that, it is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. Once the symptoms are recognizable, the patients are only expected to live 8-20 years depending on their other health conditions. There are treatments that can slow down the progression, but it cannot be fully stopped.

If someone starts to exhibit signs of the disease in the early stages, there are different ways to aid them at home. Keep up a daily routine so they know what is expected, keep conversations simple so the information can be understood, and reassure them that they are safe. It is also good to see a neurologist to get an early diagnosis.