Alzheimer’s and dementia care-giving takes patience and flexibility. It is particularly challenging because the disease is progressive and eventually, completely debilitating. In order to provide better care for the elderly suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia, early detection is recommended so that the caregiver can make early preparation and even help you make crucial decisions regarding the care of your ageing parents.

The Alzheimer’s Association has a list of 10 early warning signs you can look out for to help tell the difference between typical ageing and Alzheimer’s.

• Memory disruption
• Difficulty in planning and problem solving
• Struggle completing familiar tasks
• Confusion with time and place
• Trouble recognizing familiar images including letters and reflection
• Problems with speaking and writing
• Losing things and struggling to retrace steps
• Poor judgement such as money and hygiene choices
• Social and professional withdrawal
• Mood and personality changes

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia is undeniably a long, stressful, and intensely emotional journey. It is crucial to make enough planning and preparation to avoid draining out everyone in the family at a later stage. If you wish to know more about Alzheimer’s or dementia and its diagnosis, reach out to a member of My Aged Care at 03-7932 2638 today!