Helpful tips at the holidays
The holiday season can be busy with travel and visits from family and friends who might not often see one another. This time together may raise questions about a person’s physical and cognitive health. Although some change in cognitive ability can occur with age, memory problems that impact daily living are not a part of typical aging. Recognizing the difference between typical aging and potentially more serious problems can help identify when it may be time to see a doctor.
“While families are eager to celebrate and enjoy the holidays together, this can also be an opportune time to discuss concerns face-to-face,” said Danielle Dodson, a licensed clinical social worker who works one-on-one with families and individuals.
The holiday season can be busy with travel and visits from family and friends who might not often see one another. This time together may raise questions about a person’s physical and cognitive health. Although some change in cognitive ability can occur with age, memory problems that impact daily living are not a part of typical aging. Recognizing the difference between typical aging and potentially more serious problems can help identify when it may be time to see a doctor.
“While families are eager to celebrate and enjoy the holidays together, this can also be an opportune time to discuss concerns face-to-face,” said Danielle Dodson, a licensed clinical social worker who works one-on-one with families and individuals. “ If you suspect that a loved one is experiencing changes that may need to be addressed, take some time in advance to think about an approach to discussing these changes. Consider when you might be able to find or create some quiet time during the holidays to have this discussion, who might be best-situated to initiate this conversation, and what message you want to convey.”
Early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias is an important step in getting appropriate treatment, care and support services. Following are additional benefits to receiving a diagnosis as early as possible:
Benefits of an early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease
- Benefit from treatments that may improve symptoms and help maintain a level of independence longer.
- Have more time to plan for the future.
- Sign up for and participate in a clinical trial through Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch® – a free, easy-to-use clinical studies matching service that connects individuals with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, healthy volunteers and physicians with current studies.
- Participate in decisions about care, transportation, living options, financial and legal matters.
- Develop a relationship with doctors and care partners.
- Benefit from care and support services, making it easier to manage the disease.
Individuals may experience one or more of the 10 Warning Signs in different degrees. If you notice any of them, please see a doctor.
http://www.optimumseniorcare.com/services/alzheimerscare.php