Alzheimer's Awareness Month: How Families Can Learn and Get Involved
Nacogdoches, TX, is a top choice for retirees due to the charm of its small-town feel, but that's not the only reason. This part of Texas also boasts excellent healthcare, including a multi-award-winning hospital nearby.
Getting the right medical help is one way seniors can experience peace of mind in their later years, so it's ideal for those managing long-term conditions like dementia and Alzheimer's.
An Alzheimer's diagnosis can have a profound effect on a loved one. Still, there are many ways you can provide emotional and practical support. To commemorate Alzheimer's Awareness Month, we've compiled this short guide on how families can get involved.
Senior Care Education
Raising awareness in aging seniors about Alzheimer's can only happen once you understand the disease and how it can impact people. You might have some knowledge of memory loss, but do you have information beyond this?
If not, it's time to do some research and make yourself an effective advocate for those suffering from the condition.
The first thing to know about Alzheimer's is that it's progressive, which means symptoms like memory loss begin as minor, subtle signs, but they gradually worsen and become more severe. Seniors with more advanced Alzheimer's will need daily support.
Alzheimer's not only affects memory, but it also comes with changes to cognitive thinking and behavior. Other symptoms include:
- Finding it hard to remember events
- Difficulty keeping track of conversations
- Confusion about the time or location
- Regularly misplacing items
- Getting lost and becoming disoriented
- Poor decision-making or dangerous lapses in judgment
- Isolation and withdrawal from usual social activities
- Anxiety or depression
- Mood swings, anger, or aggression
Some seniors may even show mood changes, which can be hard for loved ones to witness.
That is one of the reasons professional support is crucial. Professionals understand how to deal with the more challenging aspects of Alzheimer's, like frustration, disorientation, and behavioral issues. They adopt a patient and compassionate approach that will allow seniors to live with dignity.
Take Part in Local Events for Alzheimer's Awareness Month
If you have a family member with Alzheimer's, raising awareness can be an excellent way to show some support.
Organizations like the Alzheimer's Association often create dementia awareness events to support efforts to fight this disease through funded research into cures. For example, each year there is a Nacogdoches Walk to End Alzheimer's, which is a fun, family-friendly activity you can do to help support this charity, as well as to honor your loved one.
If you can't take part in a local walk, there are plenty of other ways you can show your support. You could host a small event in your area to raise money for an Alzheimer's charity, like a sponsored race or a bake sale. It's a great way to bring the community together to help join the fight against this condition.
Create Meaningful Moments for Your Loved One
Perhaps your loved one is living in an assisted living community like Meadowview Place. If so, you can arrange for some small but memorable activities on your next visit in honor of Alzheimer's Awareness Month.
These don't need to be massive group events. They can be small, intimate activities, such as:
- Bringing along an album of their favourite music and listening to it together
- Sharing an old photo album and reminiscing about the past
- Giving a treat like chocolates or baked goods to enjoy
- Arrange for a picnic at a nearby scenic spot
You could also speak to the community about joining some of the group events on offer.
For example, at Meadowview Place Assisted Living, we have an ever-changing activity calendar with lots of exciting workshops and events, such as fitness classes or arts and crafts. You could suggest a group activity like a quiz night in the community to help raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's.
Join a Family Support Group
Alzheimer's can be a difficult and often emotional experience for both the senior and their loved ones. Getting help is vital, and being able to speak to others in a similar situation can help ease some of the worries that people often have when dealing with this condition.
A small and simple step you can take for Alzheimer's Awareness Month is to join a local family support group. These are safe spaces where you can chat with others, share experiences, tips, family support tools, and be a source of emotional support.
If you can't find a local support group, why not consider starting a community health outreach program? Around 7 million Americans have an Alzheimer's diagnosis, so there will be many people near you who will feel relieved at having a support group to attend.
How to Support a Loved One With Alzheimer's
Gaining an understanding of Alzheimer's disease is one crucial step in helping your loved one. Still, it's not the only thing you can do. Use Alzheimer's Awareness Month to reflect on what you can do to be more present and understanding with your loved one.
Perhaps ask caregivers for some tips on how to communicate with someone experiencing memory loss, for example.
Find out more about the types of activities that you can do that will help your relative feel more at ease and connected.
Look at ways you can improve their environment, too, such as adding familiar decorations and colors to their private suite in the senior living community, for example.
You could plan some brain-boosting activities to help your loved one sharpen their cognitive skills. Maybe they play chess, or perhaps they enjoy a card game or a jigsaw.
Choosing the Right Care for Your Loved One
Alzheimer's Awareness Month is the perfect time to reflect on how you can support your loved one. Whether it's attending events or arranging a special family day, there are lots of ways you can show you care.
At Meadowview Place Assisted Living, that dedication to care is at the heart of our philosophy. With professional support, a vibrant community, cozy amenities such as lounges, and a sunny, spacious building, it feels like home. Book a tour today to learn more.