Every year, more Americans are dealing with Alzheimer’s disease or are worried about what role it is going to play in their family’s future. Here are important facts which you should know about successful aging and how to plan for and deal with the problems of getting older.

Can Alzheimer’s Disease be Prevented? While scientists continue to search for a vaccine that can “prevent” Alzheimer’s disease, evidence is mounting that there are things that everyone can do to reduce their chances of developing symptomatic Alzheimer’s disease. We are now reasonably certain that Alzheimer’s disease is present in individuals years, maybe decades, before any symptoms of dementia appear. Staying “heart healthy” (eating the right foods and staying physically active and fit) and staying “mentally and socially” active helps delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms and probably other forms of dementia as well. We are happy to help you with a physical and mental evaluation and to develop a physical and mental fitness plan that is best for you or your loved one.

Understanding MCI. Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) afflicts more seniors than Alzheimer’s disease and for some, Alzheimer’s disease will follow. This is a time when maintaining good physical and mental health becomes even more important. Improving balance (we utilize the latest equipment and methods for balance training) can reduce the risk of fall injury and help keep a senior more physically and socially active. Companionship and help with all the problems of daily living not only helps prevent accidents, but actually fights depression and can improve a senior’s physical and mental health. Please ask us about the many ways our therapeutic and home care programs can help keep you or our loved-one safe at home.

Dealing with Early stage Alzheimer’s disease. The early phases of Alzheimer’s disease can be the most difficult for both family and patient. Many individuals in this stage become very difficult to manage, even aggressive. More hours of care are needed and caregivers must be specially trained to understand and safely handle the behaviors that individuals in early stage Alzheimer’s disease may demonstrate. Our staff of caregivers, psychologists and therapists all have special training to deal with individuals at this stage.

Options for Individuals in the Later Stages of Alzheimer’s Disease. Most families come to realize that placing their loved-one in an assisted living community when they are in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease is best both for the individual and family. The evidence today strongly suggests that an individual in mid or late-stage Alzheimer’s disease is both happier and thrives better when living with other seniors and when receiving the 24-hour therapeutic care that only an assisted living facility can provide. However, selecting the right assisted living community that employs the latest therapeutic programs is essential. Also, every family must decide for themselves when this option is best. We work with families to help them maintain their loved one at home as long as possible and then assist them in locating the best assisted living community for their loved-one and for themselves.