Alzheimer’s and Family Caregivers: Your Essential Guide for Awareness Month

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you’re not alone. Each November during Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, we show our support for the millions of people affected by dementia. This observance began in 1983 with a designation from President Ronald Reagan. He would go on to face his own Alzheimer’s diagnosis, raising empathy and understanding about this disease.

In November, we also recognize National Family Caregivers (NFC) Month. This is a time to honor family members who care for their loved ones facing memory issues and other challenges. NFC Month began in 1994 with the Caregiver Action Network and was recognized in 1997 with a proclamation from President Bill Clinton.

This November, we’re shining a light on resources to help people with Alzheimer’s disease and those who care for them. Read on to learn more about Alzheimer’s and the help available right here in the community.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and community resources for dementia patients

Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder that causes the loss of brain cells and connections. Over time, this worsens, impacting memory and other basic functions.

Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, affecting about one in nine people ages 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

One of the challenges can be knowing if you’re experiencing routine memory changes or possible Alzheimer’s symptoms. Mild forgetfulness, or taking longer to learn something new, can be a normal part of aging, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). However, this differs from Alzheimer’s, which is a brain disease.

At Era Living, we’ve devoted a whole library of resources to help you better understand Alzheimer’s and improve your quality of life. For example:

• On our Memory and Brain Health page, you can find questions that can help you start to differentiate potential early indicators of Alzheimer’s disease. You can also find tips to help prevent or slow memory loss, as well as information about memory screening and more.
• Our Dementia and Brain Health playlist on YouTube features webinars on a wide range of Alzheimer’s topics – from diet and exercise to deciding when to consider Memory Care. You can also learn about music therapy and home safety for dementia, technology for memory loss, and more.  
• Our podcast blog features an assortment of podcasts on health and aging. For example, you can learn about optimal healthy aging and ways to approach dementia care.

Help for Alzheimer’s families and caregivers

Caring for a family member with dementia can be challenging. Often, you may be juggling different responsibilities. Also, it can be hard to navigate the changes your loved one may be experiencing. To support you in this effort, we invite you to discover Era Living’s dementia resources such as:

• A brief video with Tips for Helping a Loved One with Dementia-Related Behavior Challenges
• A blog story focused on The Therapeutic Approach to Compassionate Dementia Care
•  A webinar on Successful Strategies for Caregivers & Family Relationships

More Alzheimer’s support services and organizations 

Other places where you can learn more or get involved with Alzheimer’s and caregiver support efforts include the following:

• Alzheimer’s Association – Providing community resources and education, and advancing Alzheimer’s care, support, research, and advocacy.
• National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Leading the federal government’s research on Alzheimer’s and providing Alzheimer’s education and support.
• Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Resources – Providing Alzheimer’s care, research, education, and more.
• Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) – Providing support, services, and education, and funding research for better treatment and a cure.
•  Caregiver Action Network (CAN) – Working to improve the quality of life for Americans caring for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, or diseases.

Memory Care in Seattle – and other senior housing options

Local and national resources can play a big role in supporting people with Alzheimer’s. Still, more specialized care is sometimes needed – especially as the disease progresses.

If you or your loved one needs full-time help, Memory Care may be an option. Era Living’s senior housing options include two secure, home-like residences for Memory Care. They are called The Terrace, at Ida Culver House Broadview and at The Gardens at Town Square. Here, residents with Alzheimer’s can find a supportive environment. A distinguishing feature is our Best Friends Approach, which nurtures positive, loving connections.  

Along with Memory Care, Era Living also offers independent living for seniors and assisted living. Assisted living is for people who need extra support, but still want to enjoy many of the positive aspects of senior independent living. Research shows that being social and staying physically and mentally active can help support cognitive health, in addition to other benefits.

Guidance for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and beyond

Navigating dementia can be challenging, and it is hard to do it on your own. November observances recognizing Alzheimer’s Awareness and Family Caregivers provide an important reminder that help is available. Shining light on these topics can help address the health concerns that often arise for both caregivers and adults with Alzheimer’s.

By utilizing the resources outlined here, you can find guidance, community, and tools to help manage the challenges you face. We encourage you to explore the links, listen to our podcasts, and attend webinars for deeper insights into Alzheimer’s care.