Find Comfort in Learning the Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a scary condition that affects some people as they age. For years, this disease baffled scientists and made life increasingly frustrating not only for those suffering from it, but for their loved ones as well. But, in recent years, science has uncovered new information about the disease that can help those caring for their loved ones to understand it a little better.
At Davis Community, we provide innovative dementia care in Wilmington NC. If your loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s disease, or if you are unsure about their condition, read on to learn more about Alzheimer’s and how we can help.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
As we age, subtle changes occur naturally in the brain that affects our ability to recall certain things. While some many only suffer mild memory loss, for others the problem is more severe. At its core, Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that causes one to suffer severe changes in their memory, thinking, and behavior. Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of the aging process. The symptoms of this disease tend to develop slowly and worsen over time to the point that the sufferer is unable to manage normal daily tasks.
Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
Scientists have now identified three stages in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, each with their own unique signs and symptoms. The stages include:
- Pre-Clinical Stage Alzheimer’s
- Mild to Moderate State Alzheimer’s
- Severe Alzheimer’s Disease
For those in the pre-clinical stage of the disease, their symptoms will be mild to the point that they may not even be noticeable at first. For instance, your loved one may exhibit difficulty choosing the right word or they may hesitate longer than usual in making a decision.
As the disease progresses to the mild to moderate stage, their memory problems will start affecting their daily life. For instance, common signs and symptoms at this level include:
- –Getting lost
- –Misplacing or losing items
- –Changes in mood or personality
- –Trouble handling money or paying bills
- –Poor judgment
As the disease further progresses through this stage, the sufferer will start exhibiting the following signs:
- –Difficulty recognizing family or friends
- –Increased levels of confusion and memory loss
- –Impulsive behaviors
- –Inability to perform multi-level tasks such as getting dressed
- –Inability to learn new things
- –Hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions
Eventually, the disease will progress to its most severe stage. During this stage, the sufferer loses their ability to communicate entirely and is dependent on others for 100% of their care. Additional symptoms of this stage include:
- –Weight loss
- –Seizures
- –Difficulty swallowing
- –Skin infections
- –Extended sleeping patterns
- –Loss of bowel and bladder control
Davis Community Provides Exceptional Dementia Care in Wilmington NC
If your loved one is exhibiting the signs of Alzheimer’s disease or they have already been diagnosed by their doctor, then there may eventually come a time when you are unable to give them the care they need. At The Davis Community, we provide 24/7 skilled nursing care with an emphasis on dementia care, so we can help alleviate the stress and worry you’re feeling for your loved one’s well-being.
When your loved one comes to Davis, you can rest assured they will be in good hands. Any resident that has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s lives in a secure residential area where we provide them with the highest level of comfort, protection, and care possible. Throughout their time at Davis, we will provide for their individual needs of socialization, meaningful recreation, and individualized medical and memory care.
If your loved one needs dementia care in Wilmington NC, The Davis Community can help. Call us today at 910.686.7195 or simply complete and submit our online request form to learn more about our assisted living facility in Wilmington NC.