Seasons of Life

Memory Loss

Care, Treatment, and Hope

By Linda Barnes

More than 6 million Americans, 65 and older, are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Women make up two thirds of those cases. Researchers are working tirelessly to find better treatments and, eventually, a cure for this progressive form of dementia. While they do, many families are struggling to meet the caregiving challenge.

Dementia is a category of diseases that is often associated with memory, thinking, and behavior issues. Some forms are caused by brain injury or other diseases, such as Parkinson’s disease, but Alzheimer’s is the most prevalent form of dementia. It is related to certain changes that have been identified within the brain.

Early diagnosis is crucial because treatment varies depending on the specific form of dementia. Physical and neurological exams, mental status tests, laboratory tests, and imaging can help determine what may be causing memory and cognitive issues. Alzheimer’s has typically been more difficult to diagnose, but doctors have better testing now, including imaging such as brain amyloid PET scans.

Symptoms may include memory problems, difficulty with familiar tasks, trouble speaking or writing, disorientation, poor personal hygiene, or mood changes. Judgment may decrease and social situations may be avoided. People may display an inability to solve problems. The progression may be relatively slow.

If early to moderate stage Alzheimer’s is diagnosed, doctors can prescribe medications such as Aricept or Namenda that may help boost memory by maintaining a high level of neurotransmitters in the brain. In moderate to severe stages, other prescription meds are indicated. In addition, the doctor may prescribe antidepressants or other medications to help relieve related symptoms.

Different stages of dementia require specific levels of support or care. During early stage, a care partner might help with remembering appointments, finances, transportation, managing meds, and recalling names or words.

Moderate stages require a greater level of care. Difficulty expressing thoughts and performing routine tasks is common. Safety is a greater concern and it is no longer advisable to drive. Behavior may change and living alone may no longer be an option. Help with eating, dressing, and grooming is needed. Care partners may need assistance or regular breaks as the demands grow. A residential care setting may be considered.

Late stage requires 24/7 care. Difficulty eating or swallowing is common. Assistance with walking and personal care is needed. Infections are concerning. Medications must be monitored. Needs often exceed what can be given at home. Explore residential care options carefully for the best solution.

Residential memory care has many advantages, whether a stand-alone facility or a separate wing or floor of a long-term care facility. Either way, residents benefit from round-the-clock care from professionals who are specially trained in memory care. Maintaining quality of life is a high priority.

Memory care facilities provide necessities such as meals, laundry, and housekeeping. In addition, residents can access specialized medical care and planned activities. Therapies and a high level of assistance are pluses. Safety features are designed to prevent injuries and may include alarms on exterior doors or bracelets worn by residents.

Finding the best residential care can be time-consuming. Fortunately, online resources can help. Type in “memory care” and your zip code. Medicare.gov rates long-term care facilities with a star system, so it’s easy to compare at a glance.

Besides getting recommendations from doctors and friends, it’s important to visit facilities in person. On your tour, observe whether staff members show respect for residents. Note the cleanliness and degree of maintenance. Ask about staff training and the ratio of staff to residents—both daytime and nighttime. Who is their visiting physician? How often will family meet with staff? What activities and therapies are available?

Studies have found that those with memory loss often do better in a specialized residential memory care setting. They have fewer falls or injuries and better medical care. Dementia progression is sometimes slowed in a setting designed with the needs of the residents in mind.

Though Alzheimer’s does not have a cure right now, and available medications only provide some relief from symptoms, there is much optimism. A blood test is being developed that can determine whether a person’s dementia is caused by Alzheimer’s. If it were able to do this years before any symptoms appear, that would be game-changing for diagnosis and early treatment.

Other research has shown a positive effect in reduced Alzheimer’s in seniors who have received vaccines for flu and pneumonia. Monoclonal antibodies are being investigated as a treatment. Additional research focuses on genetics and new drug treatments.

Researchers are also looking at the preventive effects of healthy lifestyle (no smoking, regular exercise, wholesome diet, antioxidants, maintaining an active social life) on dementia and Alzheimer’s. There is hope!

Sources for this article included: aarp. org, alz.org. healthline.com, medicare.gov, and nia.nih.gov.