Important Steps After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis
Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia. Dementia is the term applied to memory and cognitive loss that becomes so severe it interferes with daily living. When a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, it can be a devastating blow to the individual and family members, and caregivers because the condition does not have a cure, and it is guaranteed to progressively get worse over time, requiring more and more daily care for the individual which can also be provided by an Alzheimer’s home care team.
Alzheimer’s Disease Progression
In the beginning stages, often before a person even gets diagnosed, you might notice your loved one forgetting small details about their day. He might lose objects more often or forget about a conversation he had with you.
As it progresses, memory loss becomes more severe and begins to interfere with his ability to safely navigate his day. At first, more complex tasks may be difficult to follow, like changing the oil in his car or following a recipe. But over time, even putting a frozen meal in the microwave may become too complicated for him.
Eventually, communication abilities are greatly diminished, and your loved one may need help eating his meals or using the bathroom. He will require constant care.
Six Important Steps to Take Soon After Diagnosis
Educate yourself and your loved one about the disease so you know what to expect and how to treat certain aspects of it. Now is the time to discuss what he thinks he’ll be comfortable with regarding treatment and management.
Gather together your Alzheimer’s Home Care Team. This can be family members, an Alzheimer’s home care provider who visits the home regularly, his doctors, and counselors. Don’t forget to include support for yourself on your Alzheimer’s home care team.
Take stock of finances. Talk to your loved one’s insurance provider to find out what will be covered and what won’t with their health insurance. If your loved one has a financial advisor, meet with that person to discuss options.
Take steps to maintain your loved one’s health. Alzheimer’s disease often progresses less slowly for those who take good care of their health, mentally and physically. Start reviewing eating habits to make sure your loved one is getting the proper nutrition he needs to keep his brain sharp, and encourage him to implement a new fitness program if he can keep his health in top shape. Oftentimes, other health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or heart issues can make Alzheimer’s disease progress more quickly.
Review your loved one’s living situation. He may not need daily assistance today, but he might need some occasional help now and more round-the-clock help later. If he wants to stay in his home, help him start to make it a safer place for him by installing safety alert items such as a timer that turns off a forgotten stove or smoke alarms in every room. If he’s moving in with you, make plans for his new living environment to be safe for him as the disease progresses.
Continue to plan for the future. Don’t stop living your life, or have your loved one stop engaging in future events. Yes, how you engage may need to be altered, or you might need the help of an Alzheimer’s home care provider, but having some things to look forward to is an important part of a joy-filled life and should continue to be even as you travel this new path.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Alzheimer’s Home Care Services in Fort Valley, GA, please get in touch with the caring staff at Angels of Mercy Private Homecare Services, Inc. today at 478-745-5111.
Angels of Mercy Private Homecare Services is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Macon, Warner Robins, Perry, Gray, Milledgeville, Forsyth, Cochran, Jeffersonville, Eastman, Fort Valley, and the surrounding areas.
Angels of Mercy Private Homecare has been providing in-home care services since 2002 throughout the Macon and Middle Georgia Area.
Angels of Mercy Private Homecare Services provides in-home care that improves the lives of the clients. Our services help them maintain the highest possible level of independent living. We provide In-home private duty care and care management services for seniors throughout the Middle Georgia area.
Our CNA (certified nursing aides), caregiver, and companion services allow our clients to age in the place where they feel most comfortable and secure - at home. Combine our Home Care Services, with our Geriatric Care Management component, and we provide the most comprehensive assistance for the Middle Georgia areas seniors.
- Important Steps After an Alzheimer’s Diagnosis - June 5, 2025
- What Seniors Can Expect From Home Care - May 16, 2025
- Common Symptoms of Long COVID - May 5, 2025