Five facts about Alzheimer’s that you need to know

November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Being aware of five simple facts about Alzheimer’s disease can extend the quality of life for patients and caregivers.

•Alzheimer’s Disease does not always start with memory loss. Personality change and irritable behavior may be the first indication that something is wrong.

When someone suddenly changes from rational, caring, loving, and reasonable, to impulsive, self centered, and irrational, it may be Alzheimer’s disease. Consult a psychiatrist, therapist or a medical doctor.

•Alzheimer’s Disease is not normal aging. If the doctor dismisses concerns, a psychiatrist, therapist or neurologist who specializes in Memory Disorders can be found in any area of the country.

•Alzheimer’s Disease is not simple memory loss. It is a brain disease that eventually targets every part of the brain – behavior, personality, cognition, comprehension, physical abilities and memory.

•Alzheimer’s Disease is not exclusive to the elderly. Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease affects men and women under the age of 65, and some may be affected in their 40’s and 50’s. It is misdiagnosed as everything from depression, stress, and early menopause in women to Attention Deficit Disorder.

If you think your loved one has possible dementia, regardless of age, contact a Memory Disorders Specialist for comprehensive testing.

•Medications like Aricept and Namenda can help with the symptoms and stabilize the person with Alzheimer’s disease, for up to 2 years, but they are not cures, they are treatments. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive degenerative brain disease.

If you have any concerns about your loved one or want to schedule an evaluation please contact us at the Counseling Center of New Smyrna Beach. 386-423-9161 or online at http://www.ccnsb.com

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