Southeastern PA Faces the Impact of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s: What you need to know.
Alzheimer’s is a degenerative disorder that attacks the brain. It is the most common form of dementia and the sixth-leading cause of death in this country. Alzheimer’s disease is the only cause of death in the top 10 in America that cannot be slowed, stopped or prevented. Every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. If the disease is not prevented or cured, in 2050 someone in the United States will develop the disease every 33 seconds.
Today there are more than 5 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease. One in seven individuals with Alzheimer’s lives alone without an identified caregiver.
There are a few things everyone should know about Alzheimer’s disease:
• Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging.
• Alzheimer’s worsens over time.
• Alzheimer’s has no current cure, but there are treatments for symptoms and research continues.
• No one should face Alzheimer’s alone. Help is available!
Early detection matters.
It may be hard to know the difference between age-related changes and the first signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Some people may recognize changes in themselves before anyone else notices. Other times, friends and family will be the first to observe changes in memory, behavior or abilities.
To help identify problems early, the Alzheimer’s Association has created a list of warning signs for Alzheimer’s and other dementias:
1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life
2. Challenges in planning or solving problems
3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure
4. Confusion with time or place
5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
6. New problems with words in speaking or writing
7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
8. Decreased or poor judgment
9. Withdrawal from work or social activities
10. Changes in mood and personality
If you or someone you care about is experiencing any of the 10 warning signs, please see a doctor to find the cause. Early diagnosis gives you a chance to seek treatment and plan for your future.
No one should face Alzheimer’s alone. And they don’t have to…
The Alzheimer’s Association is here to help with support and coping strategies, information and resources, research updates and access to all core programs. You can reach the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter 24/7 by calling 800.272.3900 or visiting alz.org/delval.