They don’t get to enjoy the most basic things we take for granted.
Memories of milestones – graduations, weddings, births, all fade away. Even the names of their most beloved friends and family members eventually drift off.
People with Alzheimer’s Disease live a life that most of us can’t imagine and since September is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month it’s the perfect time to shine a light on the resources available for people suffering from dementia and their caregivers.
Gerontologist Dr. Macie Smith knows firsthand that time is precious for family members caring for loved ones with dementia. That’s why she gets straight to the point in her new book, A Dementia Caregiver Called to Action: The Journey, a concise yet comprehensive resource designed to address common questions and offer valuable insights throughout the caregiving journey.
Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s dementia, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. And though most people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older, approximately 200,000 Americans under 65 are living with younger-onset Alzheimer’s disease.
Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, while Alzheimer’s is a specific disease. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia.
In her book, Smith takes readers through the logical progression of a dementia care experience, beginning with how to recognize potential symptoms before the diagnosis and what questions to ask the individual’s primary care physician. She then describes what to expect after a dementia diagnosis, answers common questions and details a range of care options available to dementia patients.
Dr. Smith’s book is available on Amazon, and other retailers. For anyone with questions about Alzheimer’s, treatment options, local resources or any other dementia-related topic, visit alz.org.
World Alzheimer’s Day is Saturday, Sept. 21. We should all take a moment to keep those living with dementia and their caregivers in our thoughts.