Lifestyle

Living with Alzheimer’s Disease
For thousands of people living with Alzheimer’s, random thoughts pop up about what purpose do they have left in life. And as for caregivers, investing time as well as financial support is a daunting task. However, it is important to note that being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is not a death sentence. Although, no cure as been found for the disease, research is still ongoing. In this blog post, we highlight ways to alleviate the impact of Alzheimer’s disease on victims, hereby making living easier.
We know Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common form of dementia, and that it’s symptoms typically include; memory loss, incoherent speech and difficulty in performing daily activities. What then can we do to make each day worth living for people with the disease?
Firstly, it is very important that individuals suffering Alzheimer’s should not be left alone or stigmatised. The need to have support from family and friends alike is increased now more than ever. Basic needs such as food, clothing should always be provided, and good health hygiene should be maintained on behalf of these individuals.
Activities should be designed for affected individuals to keep them busy and stop them from sliding into depression. As a person suffering from Alzheimer’s, it is important to learn new hobbies to suit your current lifestyle. Give yourself a target to read a new book everyday, play card games, try to learn a new language, engage in dancing sessions, exercise your joints by walking everyday, visit old people clubs where you can share experiences with like minds and enjoy good company, etcetera.
The aim of these activities is to ensure that you don’t live a sedentary lifestyle which can lead to depression and feeling stigmatised.
It is also very important to go for regular checkups with your doctor. Tests should be carried out from time to time to determine the current stage of the disease and to adjust your lifestyle accordingly.
For people living with Alzheimer’s, know that it is not a death sentence, and for youths, remember that you shall be treated just as you did the aged ones.
Become a caregiver today. Help people suffering from Dementia rediscover hope.