7 Things Every Person with a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease Wish They Knew

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, the disease is labeled as the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Because of its prevalence, Happy At Home – In Home Care Inc., a Non-Medical Home Care in South Hills, Pennsylvania dispels some of the misconceptions surrounding it. Read on to unravel the truth.

1. It is an inevitable part of aging! It just happens.
   Forgetfulness and Alzheimer’s disease are often associated with old age. While it may be true that old age can weaken one’s memory, this does not imply that they are natural parts of aging. It is not something that happens without reasons. There are ways you can do to help or delay the onset of this horrendous disease.
2. Only old people develop it.
   Although most of the people who have this disease are over sixty years old, there are a few people below sixty who also have the said condition. So stop thinking that Alzheimer’s disease only affects the senior population.
3. They do not want to be taken care of.
   You might have noticed that your loved one who has Alzheimer’s disease is often in a grumpy mood. Sometimes, you feel as if they are pushing you away. But do not think for a second that they do not want your love and affection. Behind their grouchy persona is a person who needs you.
4. Can you please try to control your behavior?
   You cannot tell a person with Alzheimer’s disease the proper way to act. There is no way you can change the way they behave because they have no control over their actions anymore. That is what the disease does to your loved one. What you can do is to extend your patience. It can be exasperating at times, but you cannot blame them for having the disease.
5. They are no longer the person I once knew.
   Alzheimer’s disease does several things to your loved one. It changes how they behave and think. But just because your loved one behaves and thinks differently does not mean they are not the same person you remember. It is still them.
6. What is the big deal? It is just about memory loss.
   Memory loss is just one of the many consequences of Alzheimer’s disease. This terrifying condition also disables your loved one from performing even their basic daily tasks, such as doing light household chores and keeping proper personal hygiene.
7. It gets better in time.
   Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease. This means that its symptoms worsen over time. It is difficult for people who have a loved one suffering from a disease to witness their loved one wasted away day by day. So stop telling them that it will get better soon.

Happy At Home – In Home Care Inc. provides a helping hand for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their family. Let us discuss the different Home Care Services we offer. Feel free to contact us at 724-782-0877. Hope to talk you soon!