Your Guide to Navigating a Dementia Diagnosis

We know that receiving a diagnosis of dementia or seeing warning signs and symptoms can be very scary for the person themselves, family members, and caregivers. While Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases do not have a cure, many things can potentially help the impact of the progression of the disease. Early diagnosis can help people to put new lifestyle choices into practice and will pave the way for making the appropriate plans for the future.

We all know that aging can cause wrinkles, gray hair, and achy joints. However, as we age our bodies and minds undergo many physiological changes that aren’t as obvious. As our brains age, their neurological makeup also changes, which can cause forgetfulness and longer memory recall. While this is a normal part of aging, memory loss is not. However, many older adults suffer from long-term memory loss in their later years.
In fact, according to the World Health Organization, 50 million people have dementia, with 10 million new diagnoses each year. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, contributing to 60-70% of all dementia cases.

Differences between Alzheimer’s and Dementia

While they are commonly interchanged, dementia and Alzheimer’s are not the same diseases. Unlike Alzheimer’s, which is a specific long-term memory disease, dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. While many people are familiar with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, most are unfamiliar with the other various types. Many have similar symptoms which is why it can take longer to find a specific diagnosis.

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related illness the initial information and facts can be very overwhelming. At Maplewood Senior Living, we hold a special regard for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and memory impairment. We believe that while memory loss means living with certain challenges, it should not stand in the way of living a life of dignity. We embrace new technology such as iPads and temi robots along with Rendever virtual reality and Eversound headphones to keep our seniors engaged with family and friends. Our program directors and memory care directors work hard to incorporate programs that engage and benefit residents at any level of care.

Our highly trained and compassionate staff throughout all our communities help residents with memory impairment reduce stress and improve wellbeing by focusing on the joys and accomplishments that can be experienced today.

To help you when you are confronted with dementia or Alzheimer’s diagnosis, we created a resource guide to provide a foundation of information to help alleviate some of your questions, worries, and assist you in reaching out for help.

Download a complimentary copy of Your Guide to Navigating a Dementia Diagnosis – Helpful Information and Resources to Support You. To receive your guide – CLICK HERE.

To find out more about our Memory Care communities at Maplewood Senior Living, contact us here.