We have your perfect caregiver.
Your Introduction to Alzheimer’s Care
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting about 1 in 9 Americans aged 65 or older. Every day, hundreds of Americans are diagnosed with this progressive brain disease characterized by cognitive decline, memory problems, and trouble with daily tasks. For family members, caring for a person with Alzheimer’s can feel daunting. But that’s why Comfort Villas is here—to provide scientifically proven tips for caregivers and family members to help people with dementia live their best lives.
Comfort Villas Home Health Services has the resources you need to understand Alzheimer’s disease, from the signs of its early stages to what happens as the disease progresses. Use this guide to learn more about this form of dementia or contact us today for more information.
The National Institute on Aging identifies 3 major changes in the brain that characterize Alzheimer’s disease. The first is the presence of abnormal clumps of protein fragments called “plaques” that form between nerve cells. The second is the development of tangles, which are knots of twisted brain cells. The third is widespread damage to neurons, the messengers connecting different areas of the brain.
Neurons are brain cells that help us think, feel, move, and function in daily life. With fewer neurons sending messages and more plaques and tangles damaging the brain, Alzheimer’s affects a person’s ability to remember, communicate, and safely take care of themselves. With specialized care, however, they can retain their quality of life and live more meaningful days.
Eventually, the brain begins to shrink, typically to some degree in health aging” of its original size by the end of the disease. In the late stage, brain changes become so extensive that a person can no longer control their movements, speech, or autonomic functions like swallowing. At this stage, compassionate, end-of-life hospice care at home may be required.
The Science Behind Alzheimer’s Disease
Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease
The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease increases significantly after age 65, though it can affect younger people in some cases. Often, the first noticeable change in a person is short-term memory loss. In the early stages, a person may:
Behave in ways that are unusual for them or exhibit changes in personality
Have trouble handling money and/or paying their bills on time
Take longer than usual to complete familiar tasks
Wander, get lost, or become confused easily
Repeat questions
While people with Alzheimer’s disease have challenges with daily activities and self-care, it is possible for them to remain independent with the right care plan. ComfortVillas offers Alzheimer’s care in the comfort of your loved one’s own home, using evidence-based practices from our Dementia training program to create better days. We also connect family members with resources such as support groups, effective home care strategies, and more. Learn more about how we approach in-home care for Alzheimer’s disease at every stage.