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Alzheimer’s Disease is a degenerative brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory and cognitive abilities. There are over 100 diseases and conditions that can mimic Alzheimer’s, so it is easy to immediately think you or a loved one have developed this incurable scourge. Fortunately, many other conditions that are similar to Alzheimer’s disease are treatable. We will highlight the most common early symptoms of Alzheimer’s and then discuss 8 other conditions that are similar. Early Alzheimer’s Symptoms Memory loss that affects daily life, especially recently learned information. Driving to familiar places may become difficult, or forgetting important dates, or the day of the week. Repetitive questioning is another early symptom. Difficulty solving problems or doing familiar tasks like paying bills and cooking dinner. Many tasks will take longer to do. Problems with words and vocabulary, both spoken and written. Changes in mood and/or personality, like confusion, suspicion, fear,…

If you have a senior family member who is determined to maintain their independence by remaining in their home, it would be wise to consider making some minor changes in order to make day-to-day living easier and safer. Just like new parents need to make homes “toddler proof” when there are little ones in the home, it’s just as important to make homes “senior safe.” Many accidents like falls, burns, and poisoning occur in the home. Which is why there should be no delay in properly inspecting each and every room to eliminate any problematic areas, and conducting a home safety audit. Many doctors recommend this practice be done once a year. Home should be a place where we are all safe. General Safety Checklist Move electrical cords from traffic areas anywhere in the home. Tape them to the wall or baseboard if helpful. Remove scatter rugs, especially those without…

When we are young, we are blessed with many friends and acquaintances. We are never at a loss for things to do or for opportunities to socialize. That changes as we age. Seniors slowly lose their friends, their spouse, and family members with the passing of time. This phenomenon is a serious problem, and can affect a senior’s risk of illness. Anyone can feel isolated or alone at any age, but it presents a particular threat to the elderly. In fact, isolation and loneliness have consequences that can shorten the lifespan of a senior. The Mental Consequences When a senior is alone and socially isolated, they become anxious, stressed, and afraid. Cognitive abilities suffer as depression sets in, causing a lonely senior to isolate themselves further. They shy away from social interaction, and it can devolve into a downward spiral. Doctors have known about this effect for some time, and…

Aging brings many physical changes and vision is no exception. Whether you are a senior or a senior caregiver, maintaining good eye health should be a priority, so let’s look at 5 vision care tips for seniors. Choose Proper Nutrition and Exercise Seniors should eat a diet rich in antioxidants like Vitamin A and C. Leafy green vegetables should be high on the list, along with essential Omega 3 fatty acids that promote good eye health. Fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut assist with promoting good central vision. Seniors should avoid too much alcohol and saturated fats. Exercise plays a part in eye health too. Not only is moderate exercise good for the heart, it stimulates blood flow providing oxygen to the eyes. 15 to 30 minutes of mild to moderate exercise several times a week can help improve eye health for seniors. See An Ophthalmologist At Least Once A…

Aging occurs whether we like it or not, whether we’re ready for it or not, and it happens to everyone. How well we age though is something that is affected by many factors. Why are certain 80-year old seniors able to outsmart younger family members and be in great physical condition? Yet a 65-year old senior may be struggling with driving, memory and making decisions. Changes in cognitive health and abilities are uneven and depend on many lifelong interactions. Environmental factors seem to have a negative effect on cognitive health. Let’s look at what studies have shown: What’s Normal? As people age, they find that they have diminished speed of processing information. They also have a reduced volume of information they can take in at the same time. And they have a slower rate of new learning abilities. Most young people can attest to that last one when trying to…