The number of individuals being identified with early stage Alzheimer’s disease has grown in recent years. For the individual with the disease as well as for family members, the period of time surrounding a diagnosis can be frightening and overwhelming.

Professionals in the field of Alzheimer’s disease care are responding to this population growth by developing new educational and support programs for people living with the disease. Many of these programs focus on strategies to cope with memory loss, treatment and research options, diagnostic disclosure, and planning for the future. Strong components of the programs also include the opportunity to share information and insights with others with a similar diagnosis. Read more…

While celebrating the holidays this past week with family and friends, I was reminded of the complexities of identifying changes in aging parents, especially where cognitive issues are concerned. What is normal for people as they age and what changes are cause for concern? With the extensive planning and organizing that surround the holidays as well as the occasion for extended visits, changes in cognition and memory can become apparent that were not previously noticeable. Read more…