Developing an impairment of your cognitive abilities can be a devastating loss for any person to suffer. Sadly, there can be a number of disease and conditions that can cause patients to experience this loss. In particular, Alzheimer's is a fairly common condition for elderly individuals to develop that can eventually cause a person to experience an almost total impairment of their memory. If you suspect that one of your loved ones is starting to suffer from this condition, you may want to have the following questions answered.

What Are The Symptoms Of Alzheimer's?

There can be a number of warning signs that a person is starting to develop this condition. Typically, Alzheimer's will start to impact a patient's ability to remember things that they have recently learned or experienced. Unfortunately, this problem will likely grow progressively worse as the condition advances. Eventually, a patient may suffer from disorientation and confusion about their surroundings because nothing may seem familiar or they may not remember how they got there. If you start noticing these symptoms, it is important for you to seek the opinion of a doctor that specializes in Alzheimer's care to confirm whether this disease is present.

Can Alzheimer's Be Treated?

Unfortunately, there is not a cure that can reverse the symptoms of Alzheimer's. However, it may be possible to slow the progression of this condition if it is diagnosed early enough. This can be done through a combination of prescription medications and cognitive exercises. By working to keep the patient's mind active and stimulated, it may be possible to help them retain more of their mental abilities for as long as possible. However, if treatment is delayed until the condition becomes severe, there may be little that can be done for the patient.

Can Patients With This Condition Still Lead Comfortable Lives?

There is a common notion that patients suffering from Alzheimer's will be unable to live a fulfilling and stimulating life. However, there are independent living facilities that are designed to help patients that are suffering from this condition. These facilities will offer their residents professional support with performing the daily activities that they need help doing. For example, a patient with Alzheimer's may forget to eat, but these facilities will ensure that residents are reminded of meal times and that nutritious and delicious food is ready for them. These alzheimers care communities can also help patients to remain more active as there is often a calendar of social events and programs that residents are free to enjoy.