VISITING ANGELS RICHMOND, VA 804-353-0000
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Steps to Take After Receiving an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

Steps to Take After Receiving an Alzheimer's Diagnosis

The Alzheimer’s Association reports that more than six million Americans live with Alzheimer’s disease. Also, one in three older adults has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia at the time of death. In addition, it is said that 12 and 18 percent of adults over 60 live with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Research has found that more people with MCI develop Alzheimer’s or related dementia than those without it.

The future may seem grim if you have an aging loved one who has received an Alzheimer’s disease or MCI diagnosis. However, most seniors with Alzheimer’s can live fulfilling lives even as their memory fades. Most importantly, families and spouses of loved ones with Alzheimer’s play a valuable role in their loved one’s life. If your loved one has recently received an Alzheimer’s, MCI, or dementia diagnosis, here are four steps to help you on your journey.

Develop a Plan

The average life expectancy of someone with Alzheimer’s disease ranges between four and eight years, with some living up to 20 years after being diagnosed. Families and spouses have time to think about the future and make care decisions. There’s no need to rush into anything. You don’t need to immediately move your loved one to a memory care facility or nursing home. However, you need to develop a care plan for your loved one. Research care options, tour memory care facilities, and interview home care companies. Look into adult day centers if you plan to keep your loved one home and need respite during the week. Ensure your aging loved one’s living will or estate is in place, including a named power of attorney. The Virginia State Bar defines a will and how to make one.

Seek Treatment and Medical Care

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis does not mean you should give up all treatment and medical care. Keeping your loved one as healthy as possible, even as their memory declines, lowers their risk for other severe health conditions—schedule routine care appointments with your loved one’s primary care physician. Consult with a neurologist that specializes in Alzheimer’s disease. Places like VCU Health can help families find clinical trials and learn more about treatment options that may slow the progression of the disease.

Find Support

A strong support network is vital for families and spouses of loved ones with Alzheimer’s. Consider where your support network is lacking and take steps to fortify it. Reach out to close friends and relatives and be honest about your situation. Ask friends and family to check in with you periodically and accept their help. Explore the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Richmond Chapter website to learn more about local support groups, educational programs, and caregiver tips and resources.

Create Meaningful Moments

Lastly, and most importantly, seek to create meaningful moments with your aging loved one. Learn to live in the moment. Embrace where they are in their dementia journey. Spend time reminiscing with them about their life. Flip through old family photographs and put together a memory album. Include your loved ones in as many family get-togethers as they desire. Welcome the good days by laughing with your loved ones, taking them on day trips, and making lasting memories for yourself. Let go of any plans you may have had when they are having a difficult day. Instead, give them space to rest and never stop reassuring them that you care for them.

An Alzheimer’s diagnosis affects the entire family. Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging. Visiting Angels Richmond is happy to provide professional in-home Alzheimer's care and support to families in Henrico and Hanover Counties dealing with a memory disorder diagnosis. We know the devastating impact Alzheimer’s or dementia can have on everyone in your family. That’s why we provide specialized home care services that keep your loved one safe and comfortable while offering support and insight to family caregivers. In addition, our memory care resources give practical tips to help you care for your senior loved one. To learn how Alzheimer's home care from Visiting Angels can help your loved one, contact us today by calling 804-353-0000. 

 

Serving communities in the Metro Richmond Area including Richmond, Mechanicsville, Glen Allen, Short Pump, Henrico & Hanover Counties

Visiting Angels RICHMOND, VA
4914 Radford Ave #211
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone: 804-353-0000

Serving communities in the Metro Richmond Area including Richmond, Mechanicsville, Glen Allen, Short Pump, Henrico & Hanover Counties

Visiting Angels RICHMOND, VA
4914 Radford Ave #211
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone: 804-353-0000