November is National Memory Screening Month
My husband Chris has the most wonderful people in the world for Grandparents. Lenny and Mary have been married for fifty-seven years. They are the picture of unconditional love toward each other, their children and grandchildren. I attribute much of what I love about Chris to their influence in his life. He is especially like his grandfather in many ways - loyal, patient, and kind. Even his lifelong passion for pizza is an inheritance from Lenny.
The most difficult part of our choice to move away from Western New York two years ago was being eight hours away from them, rather than 45 minutes. Over the four years we lived in New York, we visited them around once a month. Usually we'd pick up a pizza and just show up for a few hours around their kitchen table.
Not long after we moved, Lenny was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Thankfully, it has been diagnosed in the early stages. We are blessed to have this horrible disease in our family today rather than a few short years ago when there was little that could be done to slow of the cruel memory loss and personality changes that manifest themselves with progression of the disease.
I am happy to report that Lenny is being treated. Although there is not a cure, Alzheimer's can be contained in ways that were not possible before. Chris calls his beloved Grandfather and friend several times a week. They still talk about sports, food, and family. Lenny still reads the Buffalo News every day. When Chris called recently, Lenny was sitting out on the patio working the crossword puzzle.
We all count our blessings that he's a success story of early intervention.
Everyone should know the signs including the obvious things like forgetfulness and misplacing items more than normal. Some signs that may be more ambiguous are frustration when performing everyday tasks, trouble recalling words and name, but especially changes in mood or behavior.
Reports from loved one's of unusual or troubling behavior could be the most important indicator that screening is needed. Since the symptoms of Alzheimer's and related conditions are the same, age is not a prime factor in deciding wither to be screened.
Much like any mental illness, loved one's know something is wrong before the victim knows themselves. With my own struggle with depression, my loved one's are the first line of defense. Saying or hearing, "I just would want to have you screened to make sure you're okay" should be enough for any one to see a doctor.
Both physical and mental illnesses can cause dementia. Many of these causes, like depression or thyroid problems, can be cured and memory related symptoms reversed. Suffering in silence is not acceptable - it will not make the problem go away. With this in mind, it is most important to never accept memory trouble as a normal part of the aging process.
For those currently unaffected by any symptoms can choose screening to establish a baseline score regardless of age. The anthology of having a mammogram yearly so doctors can see your "normal" to more easily detect worrisome changes is appropriate. Health care professionals that perform screening can also help safeguard against memory loss by providing information on prevention.
In all the progress that has been made in both treatment and diagnosis, the Alzheimer's Foundation of America works to remind us that caring for those already suffering with memory related illnesses. The front line is always the family, along with medical intervention.Still, funds and attention are needed to help insure quality care and support for care givers.
Another great way to help in all aspects of the fight against Alzheimer's is buying a holiday gift from the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. They have beautiful jewelry with their simple in silver. Just as good, you can make a donation on behalf of that special someone.
Comments