You will also need to try to make the home as safe as possible. For example: • Clear cluttered areas, and remove extension cords or throw rugs that could lead to trips and falls. • Lower the temperature on water heaters. • Keep cleaning supplies, insecticides, gasoline, solvents, and medicines out of reach or stored in cabinets with childproof latches. • Hide the stove knobs or use childproofing knobs. • Make certain that all stairs have sturdy handrails and good lighting. • Install handrails and grab bars in the bathroom. Use a skid-resistant mat inside the tub or shower.
SAVE up to
85
%
Brought to you by
on all of your
prescriptions!
This FREE Prescription Discount Card offers... •
Average savings of 47% on prescriptions
•
Every FDA approved medication is eligible for savings Accepted at 99% of all U.S. pharmacies
• •
(Often better pricing than insurance co-pays)
(including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and local pharmacies)
Comparison shop every local pharmacy’s prices online, or by phone, 24/7
When you can no longer care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Moving someone you love to an assisted-living facility or a nursing home is painful for all involved. Yet for some families, this change allows them to spend time with their loved one in ways that are more pleasurable and expands social opportunities for everyone.
Written by
Harvard Medical School
Alzheimer’s Disease
A local Agency on Aging, a geriatric-care manager, or a social worker should be able to describe local options. CMS provides online tools that can help you assess nursing homes and home healthcare agencies that are on its approved list.
• Lock away all firearms, power tools, sharp knives and scissors, and machinery. • Take steps to prevent wandering.
Brought to you by: Attention Pharmacist: This card is activated and entitles the member to all prescription drug benefits associated with the BIN and Group Numbers (per state and federal law.) If you have any issues in processing this card, please call us at 1-877-537-5537 ext. 1
Patient Education Center & Harvard Medical School Patient Education Center 2127 Second Avenue North Fort Dodge, IA 50501
It’s Easy! The Prescription Discount Drug Card works whether or not you have insurance!
1
Cut out your free card above
2
Bring it to the pharmacy
3
Start saving money now!
Call or go online today to have a free permanent plastic card mailed to you. Phone 1.877.537.5535 Web www.DiscountDrugNetwork.com Download the Discount Drug Network free iPhone app.
The #1 prescription discount card on the market!
service@patientedu.org About This Brochure: This brochure was written by practicing physicians from Harvard Medical School. It is part of a series developed and distributed by the Patient Education Center. All the information in this brochure and on the associated Web site (www.patientedu.org) is intended for educational use only; it is not intended to provide, or be a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health care professional can provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician on all matters of your personal health. Harvard Medical School, the Patient Education Center, and its affiliates do not endorse any products. Consulting Physician: Anthony L. Komaroff, MD Editorial Director: Keith D’Oria Creative Director: Jon Nichol
www.patientedu.org
© Copyright Harvard Medical School. Printed on 10% post-consumer recycled paper.
Read this brochure online. Scan the QR code or visit:
PEC-PC-AD-002
www.patientedu.org/alzheimers
What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. Dementia is a term that doctors use for symptoms of declining brain function. Memory loss can be the first sign of dementia, but as it progresses, dementia can rob a person of the ability to think clearly and process information normally. Dementia can also cause changes in personality and behavior. Experts believe that abnormal deposits of two brain chemicals—called amyloid-beta and tau—are responsible for the death of some brain cells that occurs in Alzheimer’s.
What are the symptoms? Progressive memory loss: Short-term memory is affected first. A person with early-stage Alzheimer’s may just seem forgetful. It may be a while before long-term memory is affected, but eventually, those memories become muddled too. Decline in thinking abilities: A person with Alzheimer’s will begin to have trouble with solving problems, making decisions, and using good judgment. Changes in mood and personality: At first, a person loses interest in his or her usual activities. Over time, he or she may become withdrawn, irritable, or angry for no obvious reason. Depression is common in people with Alzheimer’s.
How do I care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease?
Language problems: This usually begins with trouble finding words. Substituting a similar-sounding word (“wrong” instead of “ring”) or a related word (“read” instead of “book”) is common. The person may ramble, stringing phrases together without expressing any real thought, or may forget all but a few words. Behavior problems: As the disease worsens, a person with Alzheimer’s starts to behave strangely. For example, the person may wander and get lost, use abusive language, or steal things. He or she may have trouble controlling emotions. Often, the strange behavior gets worse in the late afternoon or evening.
How can I tell if forgetfulness is harmless or suggests Alzheimer’s? The following chart illustrates some of the important differences between the memory loss of normal aging and dementia: A person who is aging normally
A person with dementia
Remains independent in daily activities.
Is critically dependent on others for key daily living activities.
Complains of memory loss, but can provide considerable detail regarding incidents of forgetfulness.
Complains of memory problems only if specifically asked and cannot recall instances when memory loss was noticeable.
Is more concerned about alleged forgetfulness than close family members are.
Has close family members who are much more concerned about their memory loss than the person is.
Has normal recent memory.
Has impaired recent memory.
Has occasional difficulty finding words.
Makes frequent word-finding pauses and substitutions.
Does not get lost in familiar territory.
Gets lost in familiar territory.
Operates common appliances.
Cannot operate common appliances.
Has no decline in interpersonal social skills.
Loses interest in social activities or exhibits socially inappropriate behaviors.
Source: Adapted from: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment of Dementia: A Practical Guide for Primary Care Physicians (American Medical Association).
The day-to-day care of a person with Alzheimer’s can be difficult and demanding on family and loved ones. The following tips can help ease some everyday routines: Communication • Use simple phrases and short sentences. • Be patient. Give the person time to complete a thought, and try not to interrupt.
How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed? Right now, there is no sure test for Alzheimer’s. Doctors must look at a person’s symptoms and eliminate other possible explanations for them. A physical exam and medical history are first steps. Doctors will also ask about any recent memory issues. Sometimes, extra tests are done to evaluate the person’s attention, memory, reasoning, executive function, language, spatial ability, and mood. Standard brain scans can help rule out other conditions that can interfere with a person’s thinking. New types of scans may show brain changes that suggest Alzheimer’s.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet. But medications can improve symptoms temporarily or slow the progress of the disease.
Dressing and grooming • Select simple clothing the person can manage easily without assistance. • Lay out clothes in the order they should be put on. Mealtimes • Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. • Remind the person to chew each bite slowly and thoroughly. • Cut food into small pieces. Toileting • Put a colorful sign on the bathroom door to make it easy to find. • Buy pants with elastic waists. • Restrict fluids 2 hours before bedtime. • Use disposable pads or briefs and waterproof mattress coverings. • Try to be calm when accidents occur. Sleeping • Discourage long daytime naps. • An afternoon walk or other exercise may promote a better night’s sleep. • Keep night-lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. Dementia is a term that doctors use for symptoms of declining brain function. Memory loss can be the first sign of dementia, but as it progresses, dementia can rob a person of the ability to think clearly and process information normally. Dementia can also cause changes in personality and behavior. Experts believe that abnormal deposits of two brain chemicals—called amyloid-beta and tau—are responsible for the death of some brain cells that occurs in Alzheimer’s.
What are the symptoms? Progressive memory loss: Short-term memory is affected first. A person with early-stage Alzheimer’s may just seem forgetful. It may be a while before long-term memory is affected, but eventually, those memories become muddled too. Decline in thinking abilities: A person with Alzheimer’s will begin to have trouble with solving problems, making decisions, and using good judgment. Changes in mood and personality: At first, a person loses interest in his or her usual activities. Over time, he or she may become withdrawn, irritable, or angry for no obvious reason. Depression is common in people with Alzheimer’s.
How do I care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease?
Language problems: This usually begins with trouble finding words. Substituting a similar-sounding word (“wrong” instead of “ring”) or a related word (“read” instead of “book”) is common. The person may ramble, stringing phrases together without expressing any real thought, or may forget all but a few words. Behavior problems: As the disease worsens, a person with Alzheimer’s starts to behave strangely. For example, the person may wander and get lost, use abusive language, or steal things. He or she may have trouble controlling emotions. Often, the strange behavior gets worse in the late afternoon or evening.
How can I tell if forgetfulness is harmless or suggests Alzheimer’s? The following chart illustrates some of the important differences between the memory loss of normal aging and dementia: A person who is aging normally
A person with dementia
Remains independent in daily activities.
Is critically dependent on others for key daily living activities.
Complains of memory loss, but can provide considerable detail regarding incidents of forgetfulness.
Complains of memory problems only if specifically asked and cannot recall instances when memory loss was noticeable.
Is more concerned about alleged forgetfulness than close family members are.
Has close family members who are much more concerned about their memory loss than the person is.
Has normal recent memory.
Has impaired recent memory.
Has occasional difficulty finding words.
Makes frequent word-finding pauses and substitutions.
Does not get lost in familiar territory.
Gets lost in familiar territory.
Operates common appliances.
Cannot operate common appliances.
Has no decline in interpersonal social skills.
Loses interest in social activities or exhibits socially inappropriate behaviors.
Source: Adapted from: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment of Dementia: A Practical Guide for Primary Care Physicians (American Medical Association).
The day-to-day care of a person with Alzheimer’s can be difficult and demanding on family and loved ones. The following tips can help ease some everyday routines: Communication • Use simple phrases and short sentences. • Be patient. Give the person time to complete a thought, and try not to interrupt.
How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed? Right now, there is no sure test for Alzheimer’s. Doctors must look at a person’s symptoms and eliminate other possible explanations for them. A physical exam and medical history are first steps. Doctors will also ask about any recent memory issues. Sometimes, extra tests are done to evaluate the person’s attention, memory, reasoning, executive function, language, spatial ability, and mood. Standard brain scans can help rule out other conditions that can interfere with a person’s thinking. New types of scans may show brain changes that suggest Alzheimer’s.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet. But medications can improve symptoms temporarily or slow the progress of the disease.
Dressing and grooming • Select simple clothing the person can manage easily without assistance. • Lay out clothes in the order they should be put on. Mealtimes • Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. • Remind the person to chew each bite slowly and thoroughly. • Cut food into small pieces. Toileting • Put a colorful sign on the bathroom door to make it easy to find. • Buy pants with elastic waists. • Restrict fluids 2 hours before bedtime. • Use disposable pads or briefs and waterproof mattress coverings. • Try to be calm when accidents occur. Sleeping • Discourage long daytime naps. • An afternoon walk or other exercise may promote a better night’s sleep. • Keep night-lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. Dementia is a term that doctors use for symptoms of declining brain function. Memory loss can be the first sign of dementia, but as it progresses, dementia can rob a person of the ability to think clearly and process information normally. Dementia can also cause changes in personality and behavior. Experts believe that abnormal deposits of two brain chemicals—called amyloid-beta and tau—are responsible for the death of some brain cells that occurs in Alzheimer’s.
What are the symptoms? Progressive memory loss: Short-term memory is affected first. A person with early-stage Alzheimer’s may just seem forgetful. It may be a while before long-term memory is affected, but eventually, those memories become muddled too. Decline in thinking abilities: A person with Alzheimer’s will begin to have trouble with solving problems, making decisions, and using good judgment. Changes in mood and personality: At first, a person loses interest in his or her usual activities. Over time, he or she may become withdrawn, irritable, or angry for no obvious reason. Depression is common in people with Alzheimer’s.
How do I care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease?
Language problems: This usually begins with trouble finding words. Substituting a similar-sounding word (“wrong” instead of “ring”) or a related word (“read” instead of “book”) is common. The person may ramble, stringing phrases together without expressing any real thought, or may forget all but a few words. Behavior problems: As the disease worsens, a person with Alzheimer’s starts to behave strangely. For example, the person may wander and get lost, use abusive language, or steal things. He or she may have trouble controlling emotions. Often, the strange behavior gets worse in the late afternoon or evening.
How can I tell if forgetfulness is harmless or suggests Alzheimer’s? The following chart illustrates some of the important differences between the memory loss of normal aging and dementia: A person who is aging normally
A person with dementia
Remains independent in daily activities.
Is critically dependent on others for key daily living activities.
Complains of memory loss, but can provide considerable detail regarding incidents of forgetfulness.
Complains of memory problems only if specifically asked and cannot recall instances when memory loss was noticeable.
Is more concerned about alleged forgetfulness than close family members are.
Has close family members who are much more concerned about their memory loss than the person is.
Has normal recent memory.
Has impaired recent memory.
Has occasional difficulty finding words.
Makes frequent word-finding pauses and substitutions.
Does not get lost in familiar territory.
Gets lost in familiar territory.
Operates common appliances.
Cannot operate common appliances.
Has no decline in interpersonal social skills.
Loses interest in social activities or exhibits socially inappropriate behaviors.
Source: Adapted from: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment of Dementia: A Practical Guide for Primary Care Physicians (American Medical Association).
The day-to-day care of a person with Alzheimer’s can be difficult and demanding on family and loved ones. The following tips can help ease some everyday routines: Communication • Use simple phrases and short sentences. • Be patient. Give the person time to complete a thought, and try not to interrupt.
How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed? Right now, there is no sure test for Alzheimer’s. Doctors must look at a person’s symptoms and eliminate other possible explanations for them. A physical exam and medical history are first steps. Doctors will also ask about any recent memory issues. Sometimes, extra tests are done to evaluate the person’s attention, memory, reasoning, executive function, language, spatial ability, and mood. Standard brain scans can help rule out other conditions that can interfere with a person’s thinking. New types of scans may show brain changes that suggest Alzheimer’s.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet. But medications can improve symptoms temporarily or slow the progress of the disease.
Dressing and grooming • Select simple clothing the person can manage easily without assistance. • Lay out clothes in the order they should be put on. Mealtimes • Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. • Remind the person to chew each bite slowly and thoroughly. • Cut food into small pieces. Toileting • Put a colorful sign on the bathroom door to make it easy to find. • Buy pants with elastic waists. • Restrict fluids 2 hours before bedtime. • Use disposable pads or briefs and waterproof mattress coverings. • Try to be calm when accidents occur. Sleeping • Discourage long daytime naps. • An afternoon walk or other exercise may promote a better night’s sleep. • Keep night-lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. Dementia is a term that doctors use for symptoms of declining brain function. Memory loss can be the first sign of dementia, but as it progresses, dementia can rob a person of the ability to think clearly and process information normally. Dementia can also cause changes in personality and behavior. Experts believe that abnormal deposits of two brain chemicals—called amyloid-beta and tau—are responsible for the death of some brain cells that occurs in Alzheimer’s.
What are the symptoms? Progressive memory loss: Short-term memory is affected first. A person with early-stage Alzheimer’s may just seem forgetful. It may be a while before long-term memory is affected, but eventually, those memories become muddled too. Decline in thinking abilities: A person with Alzheimer’s will begin to have trouble with solving problems, making decisions, and using good judgment. Changes in mood and personality: At first, a person loses interest in his or her usual activities. Over time, he or she may become withdrawn, irritable, or angry for no obvious reason. Depression is common in people with Alzheimer’s.
How do I care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease?
Language problems: This usually begins with trouble finding words. Substituting a similar-sounding word (“wrong” instead of “ring”) or a related word (“read” instead of “book”) is common. The person may ramble, stringing phrases together without expressing any real thought, or may forget all but a few words. Behavior problems: As the disease worsens, a person with Alzheimer’s starts to behave strangely. For example, the person may wander and get lost, use abusive language, or steal things. He or she may have trouble controlling emotions. Often, the strange behavior gets worse in the late afternoon or evening.
How can I tell if forgetfulness is harmless or suggests Alzheimer’s? The following chart illustrates some of the important differences between the memory loss of normal aging and dementia: A person who is aging normally
A person with dementia
Remains independent in daily activities.
Is critically dependent on others for key daily living activities.
Complains of memory loss, but can provide considerable detail regarding incidents of forgetfulness.
Complains of memory problems only if specifically asked and cannot recall instances when memory loss was noticeable.
Is more concerned about alleged forgetfulness than close family members are.
Has close family members who are much more concerned about their memory loss than the person is.
Has normal recent memory.
Has impaired recent memory.
Has occasional difficulty finding words.
Makes frequent word-finding pauses and substitutions.
Does not get lost in familiar territory.
Gets lost in familiar territory.
Operates common appliances.
Cannot operate common appliances.
Has no decline in interpersonal social skills.
Loses interest in social activities or exhibits socially inappropriate behaviors.
Source: Adapted from: Diagnosis, Management and Treatment of Dementia: A Practical Guide for Primary Care Physicians (American Medical Association).
The day-to-day care of a person with Alzheimer’s can be difficult and demanding on family and loved ones. The following tips can help ease some everyday routines: Communication • Use simple phrases and short sentences. • Be patient. Give the person time to complete a thought, and try not to interrupt.
How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed? Right now, there is no sure test for Alzheimer’s. Doctors must look at a person’s symptoms and eliminate other possible explanations for them. A physical exam and medical history are first steps. Doctors will also ask about any recent memory issues. Sometimes, extra tests are done to evaluate the person’s attention, memory, reasoning, executive function, language, spatial ability, and mood. Standard brain scans can help rule out other conditions that can interfere with a person’s thinking. New types of scans may show brain changes that suggest Alzheimer’s.
Can Alzheimer’s disease be cured? Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet. But medications can improve symptoms temporarily or slow the progress of the disease.
Dressing and grooming • Select simple clothing the person can manage easily without assistance. • Lay out clothes in the order they should be put on. Mealtimes • Don’t serve food or drink that is too hot. • Remind the person to chew each bite slowly and thoroughly. • Cut food into small pieces. Toileting • Put a colorful sign on the bathroom door to make it easy to find. • Buy pants with elastic waists. • Restrict fluids 2 hours before bedtime. • Use disposable pads or briefs and waterproof mattress coverings. • Try to be calm when accidents occur. Sleeping • Discourage long daytime naps. • An afternoon walk or other exercise may promote a better night’s sleep. • Keep night-lights in the bedroom and bathroom.
You will also need to try to make the home as safe as possible. For example: • Clear cluttered areas, and remove extension cords or throw rugs that could lead to trips and falls. • Lower the temperature on water heaters. • Keep cleaning supplies, insecticides, gasoline, solvents, and medicines out of reach or stored in cabinets with childproof latches. • Hide the stove knobs or use childproofing knobs. • Make certain that all stairs have sturdy handrails and good lighting. • Install handrails and grab bars in the bathroom. Use a skid-resistant mat inside the tub or shower.
SAVE up to
85
%
Brought to you by
on all of your
prescriptions!
This FREE Prescription Discount Card offers... •
Average savings of 47% on prescriptions
•
Every FDA approved medication is eligible for savings Accepted at 99% of all U.S. pharmacies
• •
(Often better pricing than insurance co-pays)
(including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and local pharmacies)
Comparison shop every local pharmacy’s prices online, or by phone, 24/7
When you can no longer care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Moving someone you love to an assisted-living facility or a nursing home is painful for all involved. Yet for some families, this change allows them to spend time with their loved one in ways that are more pleasurable and expands social opportunities for everyone.
Written by
Harvard Medical School
Alzheimer’s Disease
A local Agency on Aging, a geriatric-care manager, or a social worker should be able to describe local options. CMS provides online tools that can help you assess nursing homes and home healthcare agencies that are on its approved list.
• Lock away all firearms, power tools, sharp knives and scissors, and machinery. • Take steps to prevent wandering.
Brought to you by: Attention Pharmacist: This card is activated and entitles the member to all prescription drug benefits associated with the BIN and Group Numbers (per state and federal law.) If you have any issues in processing this card, please call us at 1-877-537-5537 ext. 1
Patient Education Center & Harvard Medical School Patient Education Center 2127 Second Avenue North Fort Dodge, IA 50501
It’s Easy! The Prescription Discount Drug Card works whether or not you have insurance!
1
Cut out your free card above
2
Bring it to the pharmacy
3
Start saving money now!
Call or go online today to have a free permanent plastic card mailed to you. Phone 1.877.537.5535 Web www.DiscountDrugNetwork.com Download the Discount Drug Network free iPhone app.
The #1 prescription discount card on the market!
service@patientedu.org About This Brochure: This brochure was written by practicing physicians from Harvard Medical School. It is part of a series developed and distributed by the Patient Education Center. All the information in this brochure and on the associated Web site (www.patientedu.org) is intended for educational use only; it is not intended to provide, or be a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health care professional can provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician on all matters of your personal health. Harvard Medical School, the Patient Education Center, and its affiliates do not endorse any products. Consulting Physician: Anthony L. Komaroff, MD Editorial Director: Keith D’Oria Creative Director: Jon Nichol
www.patientedu.org
© Copyright Harvard Medical School. Printed on 10% post-consumer recycled paper.
Read this brochure online. Scan the QR code or visit:
PEC-PC-AD-002
www.patientedu.org/alzheimers
You will also need to try to make the home as safe as possible. For example: • Clear cluttered areas, and remove extension cords or throw rugs that could lead to trips and falls. • Lower the temperature on water heaters. • Keep cleaning supplies, insecticides, gasoline, solvents, and medicines out of reach or stored in cabinets with childproof latches. • Hide the stove knobs or use childproofing knobs. • Make certain that all stairs have sturdy handrails and good lighting. • Install handrails and grab bars in the bathroom. Use a skid-resistant mat inside the tub or shower.
SAVE up to
85
%
Brought to you by
on all of your
prescriptions!
This FREE Prescription Discount Card offers... •
Average savings of 47% on prescriptions
•
Every FDA approved medication is eligible for savings Accepted at 99% of all U.S. pharmacies
• •
(Often better pricing than insurance co-pays)
(including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and local pharmacies)
Comparison shop every local pharmacy’s prices online, or by phone, 24/7
When you can no longer care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Moving someone you love to an assisted-living facility or a nursing home is painful for all involved. Yet for some families, this change allows them to spend time with their loved one in ways that are more pleasurable and expands social opportunities for everyone.
Written by
Harvard Medical School
Alzheimer’s Disease
A local Agency on Aging, a geriatric-care manager, or a social worker should be able to describe local options. CMS provides online tools that can help you assess nursing homes and home healthcare agencies that are on its approved list.
• Lock away all firearms, power tools, sharp knives and scissors, and machinery. • Take steps to prevent wandering.
Brought to you by: Attention Pharmacist: This card is activated and entitles the member to all prescription drug benefits associated with the BIN and Group Numbers (per state and federal law.) If you have any issues in processing this card, please call us at 1-877-537-5537 ext. 1
Patient Education Center & Harvard Medical School Patient Education Center 2127 Second Avenue North Fort Dodge, IA 50501
It’s Easy! The Prescription Discount Drug Card works whether or not you have insurance!
1
Cut out your free card above
2
Bring it to the pharmacy
3
Start saving money now!
Call or go online today to have a free permanent plastic card mailed to you. Phone 1.877.537.5535 Web www.DiscountDrugNetwork.com Download the Discount Drug Network free iPhone app.
The #1 prescription discount card on the market!
service@patientedu.org About This Brochure: This brochure was written by practicing physicians from Harvard Medical School. It is part of a series developed and distributed by the Patient Education Center. All the information in this brochure and on the associated Web site (www.patientedu.org) is intended for educational use only; it is not intended to provide, or be a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health care professional can provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician on all matters of your personal health. Harvard Medical School, the Patient Education Center, and its affiliates do not endorse any products. Consulting Physician: Anthony L. Komaroff, MD Editorial Director: Keith D’Oria Creative Director: Jon Nichol
www.patientedu.org
© Copyright Harvard Medical School. Printed on 10% post-consumer recycled paper.
Read this brochure online. Scan the QR code or visit:
PEC-PC-AD-002
www.patientedu.org/alzheimers
You will also need to try to make the home as safe as possible. For example: • Clear cluttered areas, and remove extension cords or throw rugs that could lead to trips and falls. • Lower the temperature on water heaters. • Keep cleaning supplies, insecticides, gasoline, solvents, and medicines out of reach or stored in cabinets with childproof latches. • Hide the stove knobs or use childproofing knobs. • Make certain that all stairs have sturdy handrails and good lighting. • Install handrails and grab bars in the bathroom. Use a skid-resistant mat inside the tub or shower.
SAVE up to
85
%
Brought to you by
on all of your
prescriptions!
This FREE Prescription Discount Card offers... •
Average savings of 47% on prescriptions
•
Every FDA approved medication is eligible for savings Accepted at 99% of all U.S. pharmacies
• •
(Often better pricing than insurance co-pays)
(including Walmart, CVS, Walgreens and local pharmacies)
Comparison shop every local pharmacy’s prices online, or by phone, 24/7
When you can no longer care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Moving someone you love to an assisted-living facility or a nursing home is painful for all involved. Yet for some families, this change allows them to spend time with their loved one in ways that are more pleasurable and expands social opportunities for everyone.
Written by
Harvard Medical School
Alzheimer’s Disease
A local Agency on Aging, a geriatric-care manager, or a social worker should be able to describe local options. CMS provides online tools that can help you assess nursing homes and home healthcare agencies that are on its approved list.
• Lock away all firearms, power tools, sharp knives and scissors, and machinery. • Take steps to prevent wandering.
Brought to you by: Attention Pharmacist: This card is activated and entitles the member to all prescription drug benefits associated with the BIN and Group Numbers (per state and federal law.) If you have any issues in processing this card, please call us at 1-877-537-5537 ext. 1
Patient Education Center & Harvard Medical School Patient Education Center 2127 Second Avenue North Fort Dodge, IA 50501
It’s Easy! The Prescription Discount Drug Card works whether or not you have insurance!
1
Cut out your free card above
2
Bring it to the pharmacy
3
Start saving money now!
Call or go online today to have a free permanent plastic card mailed to you. Phone 1.877.537.5535 Web www.DiscountDrugNetwork.com Download the Discount Drug Network free iPhone app.
The #1 prescription discount card on the market!
service@patientedu.org About This Brochure: This brochure was written by practicing physicians from Harvard Medical School. It is part of a series developed and distributed by the Patient Education Center. All the information in this brochure and on the associated Web site (www.patientedu.org) is intended for educational use only; it is not intended to provide, or be a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health care professional can provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician on all matters of your personal health. Harvard Medical School, the Patient Education Center, and its affiliates do not endorse any products. Consulting Physician: Anthony L. Komaroff, MD Editorial Director: Keith D’Oria Creative Director: Jon Nichol
www.patientedu.org
© Copyright Harvard Medical School. Printed on 10% post-consumer recycled paper.
Read this brochure online. Scan the QR code or visit:
PEC-PC-AD-002
www.patientedu.org/alzheimers