November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. If you didn’t know already, Alzheimer’s Disease is something that is close to our hearts at Bonaventure Senior Living. We have a lot of residents with the disease that live in our memory care communities. We’re proud supporters of numerous organizations that fight hard through donations and research to find a cure for this disease.
We would like to ask that you join with us to support the ongoing research by donating, sharing this blog on your social media pages, and spreading the word about how important it is to fight Alzheimer’s disease. Below you’ll find some links to reputable organizations whose mission is to find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. If you feel compelled to donate, please do. From everyone at Bonaventure Senior Living: thank you.
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that can lead to thinking, behavioral, and memory issues. The disease affects an estimated five million seniors in the United States. Worldwide, it is estimated that over 44 million people live with Alzheimer’s disease. It is considered the sixth leading cause of death in America.
The disease will typically start off with minor symptoms, sometimes so minor that the disease is not accurately diagnosed. Over time the symptoms worsen, eventually leading to the point where the person affected cannot complete daily tasks. In many cases, those suffering from Alzheimer’s have limited memory capacity. Not only are they unable to build new memories, but they also cannot retain memories they have built over their lifetime. This can include recognizing family and friends.
Some of those that live with the disease are unable to carry on a conversation or express themselves. The average lifespan of someone diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease is eight years, but they can survive as many as 20 years.
Symptoms
One of the keystones of Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month is understanding and recognizing the symptoms of the disease. This is because while there may not be a cure yet, there are medications that can slow the progression of the disease. Recognition of symptoms may help someone live a more full life before the disease does too much damage.
- Confusion with time and/or place – Sometimes those with the disease can forget where they are or what time, day, month, or year it is. This can cause confusion and frustration.
- Memory loss – Nominal memory loss is normal in aging adults, but those with Alzheimer’s disease will have severe memory loss that gets worse with time. They can forget who people are, important dates, things they done, their history, and more.
- Issues solving problems – Those with Alzheimer’s may take longer than normal to complete simple tasks. The rate or issue with solving tasks may also worsen with time to the point where they’re unable to safely and effectively take care of themselves.
- Personality and mood changes – With the above symptoms taking hold of their mind, those with Alzheimer’s disease will likely become very agitated, confused, and sometimes even violent. Depression can also set in. These major shifts in mood and personality are typically a direct result of the other symptoms.
History of Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month
In 1983, President Ronald Regan designated the entire month of November to be declared National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. At the time of the designation, the United States had an estimated two million people with the disease.
Every year since 1983 various organizations host fundraisers, events, and more to try and bring more attention to the disease. They raise awareness and funds that can help with research into finding a cure.
Places to Donate
There are many organizations that you can donate you money, or time, to help with the cause. Below you’ll find the two most popular organizations:
- Alzheimer’s Association – This organization is one of the leaders in the fight against Alzheimer’s. They raise funds and provide many different services and event to help bring awareness to Alzheimer’s disease. DONATE HERE
- Alzheimer’s Network – Their mission is to provide compassionate support, education, and outreach to meet the needs of those impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. DONATE HERE
Conclusion
We hope that every November you will join us in bringing awareness to this disease until an awareness month is no longer needed because a cure was found. There is a cure out there. Let’s find it together.
Bonaventure Senior Living
At Bonaventure Senior Living, we have Retirement Perfected, Living Perfected, Dining Perfected, and Fitness Perfected. The best way to see for yourself is to Book-A-Tour today and discover how you can live life on your own terms. We specialize in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, that way, no matter what your current situation is, we have all levels of care covered if your needs ever change.
Independent Living
With Independent Living, we want you to enjoy Simplified Living, allowing you to have the freedom to do what makes you happy. Our Independent Living is designed to accommodate the exceptional senior lifestyle that you’ve earned. What’s even better, is that with Independent Living we offer whatever supportive services that you may need at any time you may need them. Now that’s Retirement Perfected.
Assisted Living
Assisted Living at Bonaventure Senior Living is simple: all the lifestyle benefits of our Independent Living, but with any extra support that you may need. Our philosophy is based on three simple things: choice, independence, and dignity. Now that’s Assisted Living at its finest.
Memory Care
Every senior is a unique person, and our Memory Care approach is no different. We tailor our Memory Care by connecting with family members and taking time to understand each person’s specific circumstances. This includes mental, emotional, and physical health. Our Memory Care creates an honorable and professional plan to make sure that each person lives their life to the fullest. That’s the way Memory Care should be.
