Helping your parents and older loved ones

(ARA) - Spring and summer family gatherings such as holidays and family vacations are often the first opportunities that families get to spend time together. As a family, you have the opportunity to catch up with older loved ones and to notice possible changes in their physical or mental health that may stand out after not seeing them for a while. This is especially important if they are more than 65 years old or were previously diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Monitor Your Loved Ones' Cognitive Health

It is important to closely monitor your loved one's cognitive health to assess whether they are doing as well as they can. Some family members resist the idea that their loved one's health is declining, which is normal because AD is a difficult disease to accept. However, it is important to note if your loved one's symptoms are getting worse. Family members can create a support system for their loved ones by engaging others as early as possible.

"I encourage family members to be on the look-out for changes in their loved ones' health and behavior during family visits," said Dr. Yanira Cruz, president and CEO of the National Hispanic Council on Aging. "It is important that as a family member caring for a loved one you have regular conversations with the doctor and discuss any new behavior or concerns you have regardless of whether your loved one is exhibiting symptoms repeatedly or has been diagnosed with AD."

Alzheimer's: A Progressive Disease

Age is the biggest risk factor for AD, as the chances of developing the disease doubles every five years after age 65. Disease progression is generally described in three stages - mild, moderate and severe. The Alzheimer's Association estimates more than 5 million Americans age 65 and older are living with AD, and 72 percent of these patients have moderate or severe disease. By 2050, as baby boomers age, it is estimated 13.5 million Americans will have the condition.

AD affects more than just the patient - it impacts caregivers and even the entire family. Thirty percent of people serve as caregivers for their aging parents with AD as well as their children or grandchildren younger than 18 years old living at home. Nearly 11 million people in the United States - mostly women - take care of a loved one with AD in addition to their families.

Disclosure

This article was provided by Eisai Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Dr. Cruz serves as a consultant to Eisai Inc. and Pfizer Inc.

Courtesy of ARAcontent