Identify a memory disorder and therefore the onset of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one.
2023-04-28
A degenerative disease that affects all aspects of life
It is important to note that only a qualified health professional can diagnose a memory disorder or Alzheimer’s disease. However, here are some signs that may indicate the presence of a memory disorder or Alzheimer’s disease:
- Short-term memory loss: The person may forget information they have just received or recent events, for example, a person with memory loss from recent events may forget about eating their lunch or taking their medication earlier in the day. They may also forget having had a conversation with someone or having done an important task.
- Difficulty with routine tasks - tasks that were previously simple, and routine may become difficult, such as washing, dressing or preparing a meal.
- Language problems: The person may have difficulty finding the right words or understanding or following conversations.
- Long-term memory loss: a person may forget important events from their past, such as their own marriage or the birth of their children.
- Confusion or disorientation: a person may get lost in a familiar place or have difficulty understanding the time or date.
- Changes in behaviour or personality: a person may become anxious, depressed, agitated or irritable when they were not previously.
If you or a loved one has these symptoms, it is important to consult a qualified health care professional for an accurate diagnosis. A physician may conduct memory tests and other tests to determine the cause of these symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The disease progresses slowly, it occurs in 7 stages:
Stage 1: dizziness, slight memory loss that can cause anxiety or even depression. Onset of cognitive (judgment and reasoning) and behavioural disorders.
Stage 2: Onset of early mild symptoms such as loss of recent memory, difficulty making decisions, a state of confusion about time or place. Loss of concentration and aphasia. Mood changes as well as a personality change may also appear. At this stage declines are not measurable during neuropsychological tests.
Stage 3: The confusion is very marked. Psychotic symptoms, disorder of sexual conduct and food, puffs or delusions (delirium of prejudice, persecution, hallucination.) appear. For some of the abnormal reflexes and incontinence problems start at this stage.
Stage 4: Mild dementia (ability to drive if accompanied).
Stage 5 : Moderate dementia (Clothing selection done by another person; walking to familiar places only; managing personal finances done by another person). Fits of depression and anxiety.
Stage 6: Severe dementia, must be washed and dressed by another person, cannot remain alone.
Stage 7: Very severe to terminal dementia (inability to walk safely, difficulty swallowing).
What are your solutions?
There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but there are several solutions that can help people with the disease or other memory disorders manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Examples of solutions include:
- Medications: There are medications that can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease or relieve symptoms such as memory and language problems.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise can help improve blood flow and oxygen supply to the brain, which can help maintain mental health.
- Therapy: Therapy can help patients manage stress, improve their mood and learn new skills to cope with changes in daily life.
- Adaptations to the environment: Some modifications to the environment can help people with memory problems to remain independent longer, such as using calendars, talking clocks and reminders for daily tasks.
- Care Assistance: Home care, day care centres and nursing homes are options for people who need help with their daily activities and who can benefit from professional assistance.
- Family support: Family members and caregivers can provide emotional and practical support to a person with memory problems.
- Resources for caregivers: L'Appui, Fédération québécoise des Sociétés Alzheimer, proche-aidance Québec.
What are the advantages with Amika for supervising a loved one with cognitive loss?
Going through Amika to find someone who can care for someone with Alzheimer’s disease has several benefits, including:
Rigorous staff selection: We conduct in-depth checks on the background and skills of potential caregivers, ensuring that your loved ones are cared for by qualified and experienced professionals.
Specific training: We ensure that our orderlies participate in various training such as cognitive stimulation to help them better understand the needs of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, and the communication and intervention skills and strategies necessary to provide them with the best possible care.
Personalized care planning: We work in synergy with the family to develop personalized care plans that meet the specific needs of each person, which may include services such as supervision, personal hygiene assistance, recall of medication, meal preparation and other light household chores.
Flexibility: Amika can provide full-time, part-time care services based on the needs of each patient and their family.
Ongoing Monitoring: We follow up daily with our caregivers to ensure they are providing high quality care and can take immediate action if problems arise.
Ultimately, Amika can help people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families find quality care, tailored to their specific needs, and provide peace of mind throughout the care process.
More information about our approach and services is available here:
https://www.soinsamika.com/en/services or by contacting us at 514-543-4450 ext. 1
You can also visit our frequently asked questions section:
https://www.soinsamika.com/en/about/
