Every year, more progress is made regarding the best ways to treat Alzheimer’s. While researchers are still working to identify a single definite cause for this condition, it’s understood there are some common causes that may be behind why some people develop symptoms and others don’t. Taking a look at what this year has taught people about Alzheimer’s disease helps you gain a better understanding of what the future may look like for your senior loved one.
Aging
The majority of people with Alzheimer’s disease are diagnosed after the age of 65. Current research points to the idea that this could be due to normal age-related changes that tend to worsen as a person gets older. However, younger people aren’t immune to a diagnosis. Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease can begin in the early to mid-30s, when many people wouldn’t suspect their memory loss could be serious.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, help is just a phone call away. There are many reasons seniors might need assistance at home. Some may require regular mental stimulation due to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, while others might only need part-time assistance with exercise and basic household tasks. Ambience In-Home Care is a leading Ambience senior care provider. Families rely on our expertly trained caregivers to help their senior loved ones maintain a high quality of life.
Genetics
A person’s genetic history influences the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This year, more research has been directed toward trying to pinpoint a single gene that could identify people who are at risk of developing the condition. While you cannot change your genetics or those of your loved one, knowing either of you carries a potentially higher risk can help you be proactive about watching for the signs of Alzheimer’s disease.
Brain Injuries
Head trauma impacts the brain in a variety of ways. Many people experience memory loss and other Alzheimer’s-related symptoms after they sustain blows to their heads. For some people, these symptoms are permanent. It’s also possible a serious head injury could initiate changes in the brain that lead to Alzheimer’s disease, such as the development of lesions or plaques in areas that affect cognitive functioning.
Aging adults who need help managing mental and physical health issues can benefit from the assistance of a highly trained professional caregiver. Families looking for top-rated at-home care providers can reach out to Ambience In-Home Care. From respite care to specialized Alzheimer’s, dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s care, there are many ways we can make life easier for seniors and their loved ones.
Lifestyle Factors
People who engage in unhealthy lifestyle habits may also be more susceptible to developing Alzheimer’s disease. For instance, smoking affects all the cells in the body, and it’s possible this could trigger Alzheimer’s if a person already has a genetic predisposition to it. Lack of exercise, poor diet, and excessive alcohol consumption can also lower the amount of blood flow to the brain, which can lead to a lack of oxygen in critical parts of the brain needed to reason and think clearly.
Health Conditions
Certain health conditions have been linked to a higher chance of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Heart disease is a common one that often accompanies unhealthy lifestyle habits. Uncontrolled diabetes also affects the brain’s ability to get enough oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Current research has also pointed to the possibility that strokes lead to Alzheimer’s, since they can generate damage in the brain that may not repair itself over time.
The days, weeks, and months following an Alzheimer’s diagnosis can be challenging for both seniors and their families. However, these challenges can be made less stressful with the help of caregivers trained in professional Alzheimer’s care. Ambience Ambience In-Home Care is here to help your loved one enjoy the golden years while simultaneously managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (469) 573-4213 today.