Is it a “Senior Moment” or a Sign of Something More Serious?

Experts report “at least half of those over age 65 say they are more forgetful than they were when they were younger, experiencing ‘senior moments’ about things like where they put things or recalling somebody’s name.” While several studies show as many as 40 percent of seniors suffer from some level of memory loss, this doesn’t necessarily mean Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. 

Doctors say we need to remember Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, and there are some characteristics which separate age-related memory loss from dementia. One example is forgetting how to program your remote control or operate a piece of machinery after not doing it for a while. They stress this is common and typically not a cause for concern but forgetting how to get home or perform routine tasks may be a sign of a bigger problem.

Another symptom of Alzheimer’s or other memory loss diseases is forgetting what an object is used for or what it is. Someone with Alzheimer’s can forget they wear glasses or not recognize the glasses as their own. The same goes for forgetting names. A common problem is to forget a person’s name but a more serious problem is to use the wrong word to describe something or to forget the name completely.

Falls in the elderly can have deadly consequences so it is important to know another symptom of Alzheimer’s is balance problems. Even in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, falls can be common and as the disease progresses generally get worse.

However Dr. Barry Reisberg, director of the Fisher Alzheimer’s Disease Education and Resources Program at New York University Langone Medical Center, explains research indicates feeling you are forgetful may be cause for concern. In one study, findings show “seniors with subjective memory complaints are, over many years, 4.5 times more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia than those who do not have such memory complaints.” This is why it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.

At the MorningStar of North Ridge, we are devoted to caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Our holistic memory care includes meaningful activities, trained caregivers, food service, security and more as well as a physical environment designed to allow residents the freedom to safely move around. If your loved one is suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, we consider it our privilege to walk alongside your family on this challenging path. Please visit our website to learn more about our beautiful home, our team and our company’s philosophy regarding Alzheimer’s care. 

Source: 

alzinfo.org/articles/diagnosis/just-forgetful-or-is-it-dementia/?gclid=Cj0KCQiApL2QBhC8ARIsAGMm-KEk1I99B9bphbuYe_W8LqLHK6lECmCCc7GF1Sm33W-6HABic8bpQQkaAkGkEALw_wcB

Your Loved One Deserves Trusted Alzheimer’s Care

At some point, caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be very challenging. Caregiver burnout is a real thing and families may need to look for a memory care facility to ensure the person is getting the care they need as well as to relieve family caregivers. 

At MorningStar of North Ridge, our community is a warm and welcoming home to seniors suffering from Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Within a safe, intimate setting; our home has 38 suites consisting of studio and one-bedroom floor plans. We lovingly provide individualized care for each stage of memory-loss, whether onset, advanced or somewhere on the continuum of change.

Known as Reflections Neighborhood, our memory care begins with a high staff to resident ratio. Team members are trained in our “Lavender Sky” program that encompasses our philosophy and approach to the disease, giving employees a better understanding as well as tools for effective, compassionate care. As we know those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other memory loss diseases do better staying engaged, we provide a gentle flow of concurrent activities and meaningful wellness programs. 

Additionally your loved one will receive full-time non-medical care, transportation and a meal service geared toward their special needs along with assistance in the activities of daily living (ADL). While we encourage families to carefully decide on the community to entrust their parents to, once a decision is made regarding our home, we begin a process of getting to know our new resident’s background, talents and personal preferences. To aid us in this effort we use a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me,” which is designed to help us create a specialized, individualized service plan for him or her.

Our physical environment includes an enclosed courtyard and suites equipped with emergency call systems and handicap-accessible bathrooms. Transportation services include trips to doctor appointments as well other essential care to give families the utmost peace of mind. We are proud to have a reputation for trusted Alzheimer’s care in Albuquerque and feel privileged to “cast a new light” on senior living inspired and empowered by our mission to honor God, value all seniors and invest in our team. Visit our website and ask about our Move-in Specials.