November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

November is National Alzheimer's Awareness Month

With November designated as National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I thought it would be helpful to highlight some of the information posted on the Alzheimer’s Association and Mayo Clinic websites about Alzheimer’s disease.

  • While Alzheimer’s disease has not been found to be a normal part of aging, the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s increases as your age increases.
  • Researchers believe there is no single cause of Alzheimer’s; it is likely the result of multiple factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environment.
  • The risk of developing Alzheimer’s is somewhat higher if you have a first degree relative that has or had Alzheimer’s. A first degree relative is defined as a parent or sibling.
  • Other risk factors include severe head trauma, poor sleep patterns, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes.
  • Research has found that regular exercise, a healthy diet, lifelong learning, and social engagement can help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
  • While there is no known treatment, there are some medications that may temporarily reduce symptoms or slow the rate of decline.
  • Alzheimer’s can have a significant impact on the physical, mental and emotional health of family members who serve as caregivers for loved ones. Caregivers too often neglect taking care of themselves. The best thing caregivers can do is to stay physically and emotionally strong.
  • Support groups and on-line support communities are available. Click here for more information. 
  • The Alzheimer’s Association has posted tips for caregivers during the coronavirus/COVID-19. Click here to access the tips.
  • During COVID-19, support is available day or night from the Alzheimer’s Association. You can contact the Helpline 24/7 by calling 1-800-272-3900.

Gardant operates communities designed to serve older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia in Huntley, McHenry and South Elgin, Illinois; Noblesville, Indiana; Berlin, Maryland; and Williamsburg, Virginia.

Gardant Management Solutions has 20+ years of industry-acclaimed operational history in developing, managing and consulting for senior living, assisted living and memory care communities.