The Oklahoma Eagle

By Katie L. Reim
Guest Contributor

STILLWATER, Okla. -Alzheimer’s Disease changes the lives of not only those with the diagnosis, but also those who give care to that person. It is important to all involved to seek help and know what to expect.
Alzheimer’s Disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys brain cells linked to memory and thinking skills. It also can negatively affect one’s personality, gait, movement, language, mood, attention span and orientation to time, said Jan Johnston, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Service gerontology specialist.
“It’s estimated 70,000 persons diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia are living in Oklahoma,” Johnston said. “By 2030 that number will total 96,000 Oklahomans affected by Alzheimer’s or some form of dementia.”
Research shows currently 5.2 million Americans suffer from this disease with 200,000 younger than age 65.  By the year 2050 the number of those diagnosed with the disease is expected to reach 16 million.
Johnston said no one fully understands what causes Alzheimer’s, but researchers are learning what happens in the brain once the disease begins.  Scientists describe the disease as a buildup of proteins in the brain. This buildup interrupts cells’ ability to communicate with each other.  We do not know why some people develop more of these proteins than others.  Several factors have been identified.
Alzheimer’s is not only difficult for the person diagnosed with the disease, but also those who provide care are at risk for illness, injury and depression.
“Many middle aged adults are caring for aging parents,” Johnston said. “Along with taking care of their parents, these adults are also taking care of their adult children and grandchildren. The demands of such caregiving can often mean neglecting one’s own health and wellbeing needs.”
Johnston said it is important for caregivers to understand as early as possible what is going on with a loved one and educate yourself on the stages of disease progression. To help manage caregiver stress, establish an emotional support network from initial diagnosis through progression, seek out community services for you and the person with Alzheimer’s and try to recognize limits and tend to yourself.
Studies also suggest ways caregivers might reduce growing stress.  Some of these ways include: accepting changes as they occur, making legal and financial plans early, giving yourself credit and taking time to  care for yourself by making regular doctor visits.
“Each day may be different, affecting those who must cope with changing abilities and behaviors of loved ones  with Alzheimer’s,” Johnston said. “The role of the caregiver will change over time as the disease progresses. It is important to be prepared, yet stay flexible.”

These resources offer caregiver assistance for Oklahomans:
Alzheimer’s Association
Oklahoma/Arkansas Chapter
http://alz.org/alzokar
e-mail: info@alz.org
1-800-272-3900

OK Respite Resource Network (OASIS)
http://oasis.ouhsc.edu
1-800-426-2747

Respite Voucher Program
1-888-771-4550