Understanding Alzheimer’s: Research, Memory Care, and Support for Families

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month — a time to recognize progress against this disease and show support for the millions of people who are affected.

It has been over 40 years since President Ronald Reagan established this annual observance in 1983, inspiring others with his courage and commitment to a healthier future. Here’s information to better understand key concerns facing families and individuals today, including early symptoms of Alzheimer’s, current treatments, memory care, family support, and habits to support brain health at any age.

What Is Alzheimer’s, and What Are Early Signs?

Alzheimer’s is a disease that breaks down the brain’s structure and function over time, leading to early symptoms like memory loss and changes in thinking and judgment. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60-80 percent of dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

One thing that can be challenging is understanding if occasional forgetfulness is part of the normal aging process or a sign of something more serious. For example, does your senior loved one have problems remembering how to do things? Or do they have trouble getting home from familiar places? Our article on How to Recognize the Difference Between Normal Aging and Alzheimer’s can help explain what these kinds of changes may mean and when more attention may be warranted.

Alzheimer’s by the Numbers

Today, more than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s — and this number is expected to reach nearly 13 million by 2050. Among other statistics provided by the Alzheimer’s Association:

• • • Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women.
    • Older Black Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older White Americans.
    • Older Hispanic Americans are about one and one-half times as likely to have Alzheimer’s or other dementias as older White Americans.

Researchers continue to study the causes of higher risks for certain groups. For example, possible factors may include things like greater prevalence of diabetes or unique social and environmental factors. Also, women may be at greater potential risk due to longer life expectancy and other biological factors.

Treatment Advances and the Importance of Early Diagnosis

There is no cure for Alzheimer’s. Still, researchers have achieved notable advances.

One significant achievement is that today’s treatments don’t just manage the symptoms. Some of the newer treatments can also target the root cause of the disease to help slow its progression for people living with early Alzheimer’s. For example, certain FDA-approved therapies target an abnormal buildup of plaque in the brain that is associated with cognitive decline.

The Alzheimer’s Association notes that some medications are only effective in the early stages of the disease. Therefore, getting an early diagnosis from a healthcare professional can be pivotal.

Everyday Habits That Support Brain Health

Supporting brain health is something we can all do at every stage of life. Ten healthy habits that the Alzheimer’s Association recommends include:

1. 1. 1. Challenge your mind (e.g., try something artistic or new).
      2. Stay in school (and if you’re older, consider continuing your own education by taking a class).
      3. Get moving (with regular exercise).
      4. Protect your head (e.g., with a helmet while biking and by wearing a seatbelt).
      5. Be smoke-free (it’s never too late to quit smoking).
      6. Control your blood pressure (with support from a healthcare provider and with healthy habits).
      7. Manage diabetes.
      8. Eat right.
      9. Maintain a healthy weight.
      10. Sleep well.

Supporting Families and Caregivers

If you’re caring for a loved one with memory loss, you’re not alone. It can be hard to step into this new role, and it’s natural to feel exhausted and overwhelmed. While you want to do everything you can for your loved one, it’s important to take care of yourself, too. Often, this can involve asking for help from family, friends, or dedicated community and Alzheimer’s organizations.

Caregiving can become even more demanding as the different stages of Alzheimer’s progress. For example, you may have safety concerns about leaving your loved one alone. For many people, exploring additional care options and memory care communities can be a positive step. This may involve touring different communities and seeing how staff interact with residents to better understand your care options.

The Role of Memory Care in Quality of Life

While facing memory loss can be difficult, dedicated memory care communities like those at Era Living offer specialized care and services that can enhance quality of life for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. For example, residents can enjoy enriching activities, dining experiences, and meaningful interactions — all within a secure, home-like environment.

At Era Living, we provide two dedicated memory care communities called The Terrace, located at Ida Culver House Broadview and at The Gardens at Town Square. Both follow the Best Friends™ approach to memory care, which is based on the idea that what people with memory loss need most is a best friend. One way we support this is by learning about each person’s life story and connecting this to everyday experiences. With compassionate care and input from the latest research, we strive to provide an environment where residents feel valued, connected, and at ease.

My family and I can’t say enough good things about The Gardens at Town Square!! My mother was in assisted living (also wonderful) for a few months prior to transitioning to The Terrace memory care unit of The Gardens. The care my mother has received at The Terrace over the past eight months has been exceptional. I truly cannot say enough about the wonderful caretakers and other staff members here. Every single caretaker has gone above and beyond to ensure that my mother is well taken care of. These souls are incredibly kind, compassionate, empathetic, and highly skilled. Furthermore, the facility is clean and safe with delicious food and a variety of fun activities and light exercises. I would say The Terrace has become another family for Mom. The joy each staff member brings to The Terrace is palpable — making it truly a special place to live as well as to visit.🙂” — Mellie W., daughter of a resident in The Terrace, at The Gardens at Town Square

Awareness, Understanding, and Compassionate Care

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month reminds us of the value of education, meaningful engagement, and compassionate care for people facing Alzheimer’s. Ongoing research continues to pave the way to better treatments and services that can enrich the quality of life for affected individuals and their families.

If you or a loved one would like to learn more about this topic or our memory care services at Era Living, we are here as a resource for you. Please visit our online resources dedicated to Memory & Brain Health. 

Also, our team can provide more information about our retirement living communities in the Greater Seattle area. Along with memory care, our senior housing options include assisted living and independent living. This can be ideal for couples who have different needs but want to stay close to each other in a supportive environment.

If you’re considering a senior living community in the Greater Seattle area, we invite you to speak with one of our team members for more information or visit us for a tour. Please contact us to learn more.