Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. It is not part of the normal aging process. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disease that begins with mild memory loss and can later affect one’s ability to carry out activities of daily living. On a personal note, my Mom – an Alzheimer’s patient – no longer recalls who I am and struggles with most daily activities. Alzheimer’s caught up with us in November 2011. After she received her diagnosis, we developed an action plan to direct her care with a goal for her to live well with Alzheimer’s.
When seeking to take control of your health and wellness after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, it may be helpful to focus your energy on the aspects of your life that are most meaningful. Recognize that there will be good days and bad days, and an emphasis on living a healthier life will help prepare you to center your energies on what is most important to you. Start today by:
- Managing your physical health
- Get regular checkups
- Establish a relationship with a physician you trust
- Get plenty or rest
- Taking charge of your emotional health
- Allow yourself to experience a range of emotions
- Consider meeting with a trusted friend
- Join a support group with others in the early stage
- Maintain close relationships with loved ones
- If experiencing rapid mood changes or a short temper, be mindful of negative responses and understand your reaction is caused by the disease
- If today is not going well, do not force it. Stop. Do something you enjoy.
- Increasing mental stimulation
- Take a class
- Try a new hobby
- Engage in brain fitness
- Educating yourself about the disease
- Develop coping strategies
- Plan for the future
Examine the influences that impact your experience living with Alzheimer’s. Choosing to live a healthy life by maintaining your physical, social, and emotional well-being will help improve your daily life.
Written by: Beth Stefura, OSU Extension Educator, Mahoning County. stefura.2@osu.edu
Reviewed by: Jenny Lobb, OSU Extension Educator, Franklin County. lobb.3@osu.edu
References:
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/aginginfo/alzheimers.htm
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