What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks.

What Does Alzheimer’s Disease Look Like?

Memory problems are typically one of the first signs of Alzheimer’s, though initial symptoms may vary from person to person. A decline in other aspects of thinking, such as finding the right words, vision/spatial issues, and impaired reasoning or judgment, may also signal the very early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

People with Alzheimer’s have trouble doing everyday things like driving a car, cooking a meal, or paying bills. They may ask the same questions over and over, get lost easily, lose things or put them in odd places, and find even simple things confusing. As the disease progresses, some people become worried, angry, or violent.

What are the warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

There are 10 warning signs and symptoms. If you notice any of them, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. 

Getting checked by your doctor can help determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are truly due to Alzheimer’s or some other — perhaps even treatable — condition. If Alzheimer’s is the cause, an early diagnosis allows you access to treatment options, an opportunity to participate in clinical trials, and a chance to prioritize your health. 

At Restore, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech-language pathology services can be beneficial to a client with Alzheimer’s /dementia. In the early stages, rehabilitation services can help them be as functional as possible for as long as possible.

Physical therapy with dementia care focuses to improve balance/fall prevention, muscle strength and mobility, and provide pain management.

Occupational therapy assists in changing and enhancing the client’s home environment to improve function and safety at the highest level possible for as long as possible. They also can help with  bathing, toileting, dressing, and eating which can become difficult as Alzheimer’s progresses.

Speech-language pathology assess, diagnose, and treat swallowing disorders associated with dementia. They assess a person’s cognitive and communication abilities and recommend strategies to help manage difficulties.

 

Restore Outpatient’s focus on Wellness facilitates a better quality of life for its clients. If you have any questions about rehabilitation and dementia, contact us!

For more information regarding Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, visit alz.org.