Piedmont Healthcare supports two important initiatives during the month of November: National Alzheimer’s Awareness and Family Caregiver’s Month. Both are connected, as many family caregivers across the country are caring for someone suffering from Alzheimer’s.
It is estimated that more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s. In 2015 more than 15 million caregivers provided an estimated 18.1 billion hours of unpaid care tending to a family member with Alzheimer’s.
Aging vs. Alzheimer’s: Do you know the difference?
There is a difference between common age-related changes and symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
Signs of Alzheimer’s
- Patterns of poor judgment
- Inability to manage a budget
- Difficulty having a conversation
- Misplacing things without ability to retrace steps
Age-related changes
- Sometimes making a bad decision
- Missing a monthly payment
- Sometimes forgetting the word to use
- Losing things from time to time
The Alzheimer’s Association outlines 10 early signs of Alzheimer’s. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, schedule an appointment with a doctor to discuss them.
Resources for caregivers
If you are one of millions of people tending to a family member with Alzheimer’s, you are not alone. Caregiving can be a rewarding experience but it is also physically and emotionally demanding. It’s important that you take time to tend to your own needs, which will help you better care for your loved one. Take breaks, take care of your own health and find relaxation outlets. Most important is asking for help. Two great resources for family caregiver information are the Family Caregiver Alliance and the Family Caregiver Council.
Piedmont Healthcare is committed to providing the best care to our patients suffering from Alzheimer’s, and honors their family and friend caregivers who are with them every step of the way.
