Today marks the annual recognition of World Alzheimer’s Day. This day is the centerpiece of a global effort to raise awareness and challenge the stigma around Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Spring Arbor is honored to compassionately serve residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our teams feel a calling to support those impacted by this disease as well as their loved ones. We understand the challenges that so many families face and are tireless advocates to break down the stigmas around Alzheimer’s and dementia.
In the United States alone, nearly seven million people are living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Know the Signs
Early detection is crucial because the sooner we detect it, the quicker and more effectively we can support the individual and their loved ones.
The most common early signs of Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia include increased forgetfulness, changes in routine and the ability to follow a plan, difficulty completing daily tasks, consistent confusion with time and place, and new problems with speaking or writing.
When loved ones notice changes in an older adult’s behavior and how they manage daily living, their reactions can vary from surprising to scary to shocking. Those responses are normal. It’s important to continue paying close attention to understand if these changes are temporary or ongoing.
If you see your loved one struggling with the early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia listed above, know that Spring Arbor is here to help and support you.
Reduce the Stigma
Despite the number of people impacted directly and indirectly by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, there remains a chilling stigma around it.
The best way to fight stigma is to talk about it. Have open conversations with older adults and others impacted about you can do as a family to monitor and prepare. Talking with professionals who focus on serving older adults with Alzheimer’s is a proactive step and can help families create a plan.
All Spring Arbor communities have experience supporting individuals impacted by Alzheimer’s and dementia. Our teams are a resource for these older adults and their loved ones. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique and requires personalized attention. Our teams are here for you and can help facilitate these important conversations. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a Spring Arbor community near you. [JW1] [AR2]
Educate Yourself
Education is another powerful tool in combating stigma. Learning more about Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia will help you become better informed and make them more relatable and tangible; understanding signs and symptoms as well as how you can address the disease will make it more manageable.
Spring Arbor communities also believe in the importance of raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia. Education is a key component of this effort. That’s why many of our communities offer programs and interactive experiences for families of those with dementia and members of the community. These programs create a deeper awareness of living with dementia.
For example, many Spring Arbor communities offer Virtual Dementia Tours, a specialized program developed by Second Wind Dreams. These experiences – which used evidence-based scientific methods led by trainers – simulate obstacles those living with dementia face every day. The VDT is a powerful tool to build understanding and empathy.
Ask for Help
Finally, it’s important to give one another – and ourselves – compassion and grace. One way this disease is so pernicious is the impact it has on both those with Alzheimer’s and their loved ones.
Having a loved one with Alzheimer’s is incredibly taxing, both emotionally and physically. It’s ok to ask for help. Loved ones and caregivers deserve support and encouragement. Those living with dementia deserve to live their lives to the fullest.
Spring Arbor communities are here to provide resources, support you, and offer help for your loved ones. Our teams are committed to serving residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia because we want them to thrive.
Stay Positive
Alzheimer’s and dementia can be incredibly challenging, but there is hope. Let’s conclude on two positive notes. First, there has been significant progress in recent years to detect Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia early and to combat it. There is a lot of momentum around the development of new medicines and therapies for Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Second, let’s use World Alzheimer’s Day as a starting point to work together to fight the stigma around Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. We all can play a part in reducing that stigma through conversations, education, and greater awareness.
If you are considering a senior living community for your loved one, especially someone who suffers from Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, visit Spring Arbor’s website to learn more about our services and search for communities: https://www.springarborliving.com.