November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, an important time to shed light on a condition that touches millions of families across our nation. If you’re reading this, chances are Alzheimer’s has entered your world—perhaps through a parent, grandparent, spouse, or dear friend.
At Springpoint, we’ve walked alongside families through this journey for more than a century, and you should know that you’re not alone. We’ll share more about Alzheimer’s, signs to look for, and how to care for someone living with Alzheimer’s.
Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of dementia cases and affecting approximately six million Americans today. While there’s currently no cure, early detection and compassionate care can make a meaningful difference in quality of life for years to come.
What many families don’t realize is that Alzheimer’s isn’t a regular part of aging. Though most people diagnosed are aged 65 or older, age itself isn’t a direct cause. Risk factors include family history, genetics, previous head injuries, and heart disease.
The good news is that some risks can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices such as nutritious eating, regular exercise, staying socially active, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol use.
Recognizing the Signs of Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s awareness begins with understanding what to look for. The earliest symptom can appear as early as 20 years before the disease’s final stages, often starting with subtle trouble remembering names, events, or recent conversations.
As the disease progresses through its five stages, the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s become more pronounced. If you’re concerned about a loved one, understanding the 10 key signs can help you determine when it’s time to speak with a healthcare provider.
Common signs of Alzheimer’s include:
- Memory Loss Disrupting Daily Life: Usually the earliest and most noticeable indicator. Your loved one may forget recent details, miss important dates, or repeatedly ask the same questions.
- Difficulty Planning or Problem Solving: Emerges with familiar tasks like following a recipe, managing bills, or keeping track of numbers become challenging.
- Confusion With Time or Place: Individuals may lose track of dates or seasons, forget where they are, or become disoriented even in familiar settings, which can sometimes lead to wandering.
- Trouble With Words and Communication: This can show up when conversations become difficult. Your loved one might pause mid-sentence, struggle to find the right word, or repeat themselves without realizing it.
- Changes in Mood or Personality: Someone once outgoing may become withdrawn, anxious, or suspicious. Poor decision-making around money or personal care may become noticeable.
An early diagnosis can put both the patient and family members at ease, giving everyone answers and reducing anxiety. It also opens doors to treatment options that can delay symptoms and help families plan for the future with less stress.
6 Essential Tips for Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be scary and overwhelming. Whether you’re just beginning this journey or seeking new approaches, these six tips for caring for someone with Alzheimer’s can help:
- Create Consistent Daily Routines: Structure and predictability provide comfort and reduce confusion. Establish regular times for meals, activities, and rest.
- Simplify Communication: Use short, clear sentences. Speak slowly and calmly. Ask one question at a time and allow plenty of time for responses. Instead of open-ended questions, offer specific choices.
- Focus on What They Can Do: This person-centered approach—which forms the heart of our Connections memory care program—celebrates abilities rather than dwelling on losses while preserving dignity and providing purpose.
- Make Safety a Priority: Remove tripping hazards, ensure good lighting, and secure potentially dangerous items. If wandering is a concern, consider safety devices or enclosed outdoor spaces where they can move freely.
- Encourage Meaningful Activities: Whether it’s listening to familiar music, looking at photo albums, gentle exercise, or simple crafts, activities tailored to their interests and abilities provide engagement and joy.
- Take Care of Yourself: This may be the most crucial tip of all. Caregiver burnout is real. Recognizing when you need additional support isn’t giving up—it’s ensuring your loved one receives the best possible care while protecting your own well-being.
How Memory Care Communities Support Families
As Alzheimer’s progresses, many families discover that specialized memory care provides the expert support their loved one needs. Memory care communities offer a different approach than skilled nursing communities, providing care designed for individuals with dementia.
At Springpoint, our exclusive Connections program goes beyond basic assistance. Our certified team members use evidence-based methods and advanced training to create personalized experiences. Our memory care neighborhoods feature secure environments that allow residents to move freely while staying safe. Enclosed gardens, familiar design elements, and memory cues reduce confusion and promote confidence.
Residents benefit from structured routines, multi-sensory engagement, life-enriching activities, and therapeutic programs tailored to their unique backgrounds and abilities. Behavioral specialists and certified recreation therapists understand how to spark joy and meaningful moments throughout each day.
At Springpoint, we also extend support to the entire family. Regular communication, care plan meetings, and educational resources ensure you remain connected to your loved one’s experience and feel supported in your own journey.
Moving Forward With Hope
During Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, we encourage you to take that important next step—whether it’s scheduling a medical evaluation, reaching out for caregiver support, or exploring memory care options.
At Springpoint, our mission is to enhance lives and create experiences where residents with memory impairment can still discover purpose, connection, and joy each day.
If you have questions about memory care or would like to visit one of our communities throughout New Jersey and Delaware, we’re here to help. Contact us today, and we can navigate this journey with compassion, expertise, and hope for tomorrow.
