Solana Alzheimer’s Care

According to the Aging, Demographics, and Memory Study (ADAMS) published in late 2007, an estimated five million people age 65 and over have Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, every 71 seconds, someone in America develops Alzheimer’s disease, and it is estimated that by mid-century, someone will develop Alzheimer’s every 33 seconds.

Although Alzheimer’s can be diagnosed in adults of all ages, it most commonly affects the elderly. That being said, the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that approximately 500,000 Americans under the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, and about 40 percent of them have Alzheimer’s disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder named after German physician Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in 1906. Alzheimer’s is a progressive degeneration of the brain that leads to memory loss, disorientation and other intellectual impairments. Though diagnostic techniques and protocols have greatly improved, a definitive diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can only be made by autopsy.

Some memory loss is normal as we grow older, but Alzheimer’s disease involves more than simple lapses in memory. People with Alzheimer’s experience difficulties in communicating, learning, thinking and reasoning – problems that can severely impact their ability to work and to enjoy social activities and family life.

In general, three stages are recognized: early, middle and late. The early stage usually occurs for two to four years prior to a diagnosis. During this stage, individuals may experience poor short-term memory that affects their ability to sequence thoughts, handle money and even exercise good judgment. This loss, in turn, may impact their safety and the safety of others.

During the middle stage, which may last two to 10 years, the memory becomes much more impaired and results in communication and language difficulties, changes in behavior and decreased attention span. In addition, the individual may make repetitive statements and movements and have difficulty reading. At this point, assistance/supervision with simple tasks such as dressing, bathing and dining becomes necessary.

The late stage usually lasts one to three years. Individuals in this stage require full care and often have both bladder and bowel incontinence as well as difficulty eating and swallowing. In addition, they may have profound difficulty speaking and often demonstrate a limited ability to recognize loved ones and even themselves.

Alzheimer’s disease is actually a form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia, accounting for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Other types of dementia include vascular dementia, Parkinson’s disease and Lewy Body disease, to name a few.

Our programs are designed to focus on safe, home-like settings that put our residents at ease. By focusing on life-long roles and interests, we design structured activities for our residents that support their remaining abilities and reinforce their identity and well-being. We also foster active family participation in each resident’s care and provide opportunities for education and support.

The Alzheimer’s Association has a wealth of information. You are also invited to contact us; we are more than happy to meet with you.