Our last few blog articles have been focused on Alzheimer’s disease and the signs and symptoms associated with this progressive disease. AD (Alzheimer’s disease) mainly effects brain functions involving thinking, personality, behavior, and memory. Although some of the symptoms of the early symptoms of AD mirror normal aging, Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of the aging process. In the early stages or the beginning of a diagnosis, which can last for years, a person may still function independently – driving, working, and remaining socially active. A care partner may serve in a supporting role offering companionship, providing support, and helping to plan for the future.

At Champion Home Health Care, we understand the importance of keeping a senior diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in the home rather than a care facility or hospital. Care needs will change as Alzheimer’s disease progresses. Even though the disease affects each person differently, it is inevitable the disease will worsen, and at some point, will require 24-hour care. Staying in the familiar surroundings of the home can help seniors with Alzheimer’s disease feel loved, safe, and independent. Let us assist you caring for your senior loved one at home during the mild, moderate, and severe stages of this disease for as long as they can safely and healthily do so.

Our previous blogs focused on the early symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. As the disease progresses, the list of symptoms intensifies from those exhibited during the mild and moderate stages. There is no cure for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease, but symptoms may be managed and the disease’s progression slowed with medications. Although, some people may have adverse reactions to medication, actually leading to a worsening of symptoms. Here is a list of symptoms which manifest during late stage Alzheimer’s disease:

  • Disturbed sleep
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Refusal to eat
  • Incontinence
  • Loss of speech
  • Anxiety
  • Apathy
  • Indifference
  • Aggression
  • Wandering
  • Cognitive disintegration
  • Hostility
  • Confusion
  • Suspicion
  • Drooling

Mixing these symptoms in with the already extensive list of symptoms present during the mild and moderate stages of this progressive disease, it is easy to see how all-encompassing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is to a senior, his/her spouse, and the extended family. It becomes obvious how hard this disease is to handle, let alone without any assistance. Champion Home Health Care provides hand- on home health care offering a full spectrum of senior home health care services in the Melbourne and Brevard County areas of Florida. If your family is facing a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, you do not have to face it alone. Call us at 321-608-3838 to schedule your RN consultation. We will come to you and we will champion to keep your loved one safe and happy at home. Our next blog with focus on how to handle some of the intense behaviors which may present in the later stages of Alzheimer’s disease.