It can be scary to watch something happen to a loved one and feel like you have no way to confirm what’s happening or resolve the issue. That’s why the Alzheimer’s Association has put together valuable resources to help families impacted by dementia, like these tips to help you identify the warning signs.
Did you know that a person can live with the disease for as much as 20 years before the symptoms appear? It’s true. The progression is slow at onset, so most people don’t notice the changes right away.
1 in 10 people over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S.
8 million Americans live with Alzheimer’s.
2 out of 3 Alzheimer’s patients are women.
Don’t let age fool you.
This disease doesn’t only impact those over the age of 65+. Younger-onset impacts people as young as 40. “This is particularly troubling because those in this group are not old enough to draw Medicare benefits, but they may not be able to work,” says Tina Thomas, Director of Programs and Services for the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck chapter. “Their life is completely interrupted. And with young-onset, it’s more aggressive and progresses faster.”
What are the warning signs?
Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Challenges in planning or solving problems
Difficulty completing familiar tasks
Confusion with time or place
Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
New problems with words in speaking or writing
Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
Decreased or poor judgment
Withdrawal from work or social activities
Changes in mood and personality
There are things you can do.
The first thought is always to discuss these symptoms with your doctor, but that’s not always as easily done as it is said. -Especially when it comes to others. Thankfully, the Alzheimer’s Association also has a helpline 800-272-3900 that’s available 24/7 to anyone, even if they are not the person in question.
Our local team also provides training for community educators and has community forums to learn how this disease is impacting our communities, in addition to events for fundraising and awareness.
This year Chesapeake Bank is partnering in events in all of our markets.
Gloucester (Serving the Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck)
The 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s is taking place in Gloucester on 10/7 at Botetourt Elementary at 6361 Main Street. Bring your pup and be sure to stop by our Pet Zone for refreshments for your furry friend.
Williamsburg
The 2023 Walk to End Alzheimer’s is taking place in Williamsburg at the New Town Gazebo located at 5150 Main Street, Williamsburg, VA 23188. Our team will be there at one of your water stations along the route. Be sure to stop by and see us.
Richmond
Our Cedarfield and Westminster Canterbury Richmond locations will be participating in private events for their residents in Richmond.
Chesapeake Bank cares about what matters to you.
Financial matters and health are always a concern for us, as it is you. Regarding the elderly, Alzheimer’s is additionally alarming because our seniors are already the target of scams and financial abuse. Adding the complications of dementia puts those we love at an even greater risk. Please know the signs and what to look for in all of these scenarios. If something seems off, whether with a person’s behavior, account activity, or daily routines, don’t hesitate to call your branch and ask questions. Your hunch may be right. We want to help.
For more information about the Alzheimer’s Association or the Walk, please contact Madison Wilkins at mwilkins@alz.org
