Receiving an Alzheimer’s diagnosis is life changing, and it’s easy for seniors and their families to feel overwhelmed about what the future will bring. Being prepared with a set of questions when you go to the doctor’s with your aging loved one can ease concerns and help you both better understand what to expect in the months and years ahead. Here are a few important questions to ask your loved one’s physician following an Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis.
What Can I Expect as the Disease Progresses?
Each stage of Alzheimer’s disease tends to progress through a set of typical symptoms and patterns. Getting an idea of what you can expect in the future will help you plan ahead to meet your loved one’s changing needs.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of senior care Montgomery families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
What Stage of Alzheimer’s Is My Loved One In?
Alzheimer’s is usually divided into early, middle, and late stages, although the disease affects everyone differently. While these stages overlap and the disease may progress differently in your loved one than other people, understanding these stages will help you better predict and manage symptoms.
What Makes You Sure It’s Alzheimer’s?
Asking the physician to explain how he or she reached the diagnosis can give you more insight into your loved one’s condition. It can also be helpful if any family members question the diagnosis and insist “Mom or Dad is fine.”
What Treatments Are Available?
There are several drugs used to treat Alzheimer’s that may slow its progression or alleviate certain symptoms. Your loved one’s physician can help you understand treatment options, including prescription medications and other forms of therapy.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.
Where Can I Turn for Support?
Your loved one’s physician can recommend local support groups in the area as well as sources of advice and aid. The doctor can also refer you to resources to get the training you may need to care for someone with memory loss.
What Type of Care Will My Loved One Need?
There are many forms of care available for seniors with AD, including in-home support. Find out what the physician recommends for your loved one’s current abilities if you need help, and ask for provider recommendations.
For reliable Alzheimer’s care, Montgomery, AL, families can turn to Home Care Assistance. We are a leading provider of professional memory care designed to help seniors maintain a higher quality of life. In addition to Alzheimer’s care, we also provide comprehensive dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke care. From revolutionary care programs to compassionate and dedicated caregivers, we can meet all of your Alzheimer’s home care needs. To find out how we can best assist your family, reach out to us today at (334) 593-3988.