Few diagnoses carry the weight and fear of Alzheimer’s disease. As the most common cause of dementia, it slowly and relentlessly destroys memory, thinking skills, and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. For the older adults who face it and the families who care for them, the journey is challenging, requiring immense patience, support, and specialized knowledge.

At ABloom Home Care, our mission is to support the dignity and quality of life for seniors and other homebound individuals. This includes providing compassionate care for those living with Alzheimer’s and helping families navigate the complexities of this disease. Let us be your companion, especially when you need one the most.

What is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that primarily causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. These symptoms gradually become severe enough to interfere with daily tasks. The disease is characterized by two abnormal structures in the brain:

• Plaques: Clumps of a protein fragment called beta-amyloid that build up between brain cells, disrupting communication.
• Tangles: Twisted fibers of a protein called tau that build up inside brain cells, destroying the transport system necessary for cell survival.

The damage begins years before symptoms appear and spreads through the brain, eventually shrinking brain tissue and impairing nearly all functions.

Who Gets Alzheimer’s Disease?

While Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, age is the greatest known risk factor.

• Most people with the disease are 65 and older.
• After age 65, the risk doubles every five years.
• Genetic factors also play a role, particularly in early-onset Alzheimer’s (which strikes people under 65).
• Other significant risk factors include: uncontrolled high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, a history of head trauma, poor sleep, and a sedentary lifestyle.

How to Potentially Lower the Risk (What to Avoid)

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent Alzheimer’s, research strongly suggests that healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce risk factors associated with the disease and support overall brain health. The focus is often on cardiovascular health, as “what’s good for the heart is good for the brain.”

• Prioritize Cardiovascular Health: Strictly manage and control high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol with your doctor.
• Stay Physically Active: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Regular activity is one of the best ways to reduce risk.
• Stay Mentally and Socially Active: Engage your mind by reading, learning new skills (like a language or instrument), solving puzzles, and maintaining an active social life.
• Eat a Healthy Diet: Adopt a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins (like the Mediterranean diet).
• Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: Smoking severely damages blood vessels, and excessive alcohol intake increases the risk of dementia.
• Protect Your Head: Take steps to prevent falls and wear protective gear during activities that carry a risk of head injury.

What to Do: Management and Support

For those already diagnosed or their families, action focuses on supportive care, maximizing function, and ensuring safety:

1. Seek Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Consult a specialist (neurologist) as soon as symptoms are noticed. Early intervention allows access to medications that may temporarily manage symptoms and gives the individual more time to plan their future.
2. Establish a Calming Routine: People with Alzheimer’s thrive on routine. Consistency in daily schedules (waking, meals, activities) reduces confusion and anxiety.
3. Ensure Home Safety: Minimize safety risks by removing clutter, securing dangerous objects, and installing simple locks to prevent wandering.
4. Stay Mentally Stimulating (But Simple): Engage in activities that are familiar and enjoyable, avoiding tasks that are too complex and might cause frustration.

The Companion You Need: How In-Home Care Can Help

The caregiving demands of Alzheimer’s can lead to significant physical and emotional strain on family members. With a companion around, seniors and other homebound individuals can live an improved quality of life while ensuring their family caregivers receive much-needed support.

Allow our caregivers to assist you with any tasks that you need to accomplish, as well as simply provide you with company at home. We can make sure that your loved one will stay safe and comfortable, away from the risks of safety and health hazards.

Our reliable companions can provide the following services:

• Round-the-Clock Safety: We minimize safety risks through attentive care, especially with mobility assistance and fall prevention.
• Medication Reminders: We ensure medications are taken accurately and on time.
• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): We assist with bathing, dressing, and grooming in a patient and respectful manner.
• Mind-Stimulating Conversations: Our companions provide valuable social interaction to keep the mind engaged and help minimize the risks of loneliness and social isolation.
• Respite Care: We give family caregivers planned breaks to rest and restore their own well-being.

Get in Touch

For more information about how we can be of help to you and your loved ones in navigating the complexities of Alzheimer’s care, please do not hesitate to send us a message at a time of your convenience. You may also meet with us so we can provide you with an assessment and tailor a care plan according to your specific needs.

Schedule your free consultation today!