June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
What is Alzheimer’s Disease?
Alzheimer’s is known to be the most common cause of dementia, which affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It accounts for 60-80% of dementia cases While it can affect younger people, it is most commonly seen in people ages 65 and beyond. In some cases, early symptoms can be seen after the age of 60, and increase quickly with age. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) says “It is a progressive disease beginning with mild memory loss and possibly leading to loss of the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to the environment.”
More than 6 million Americans of all ages are living with Alzheimer’s. It’s estimated that 6.7 million people age 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease in 2023. Seventy-three percent are age 75 and older.
While scientists still do not yet know what causes Alzheimer’s disease, they know that there are likely several factors, affecting every person differently. Some of those factors are age and family history. However, there is continual research and evidence that healthy behaviors that have been shown to prevent cancer and heart disease may also reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Some of these healthy behaviors include:
- Preventing and managing high blood pressure
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing blood sugar
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- If you drink, do so in moderation
- Maintaining a nutritious diet and adequate physical activity
Surprising Facts about Alzheimer’s
- Women are more likely to get Alzheimer’s than men
Nearly double the number of women develop Alzheimer’s than men. Their symptoms seem to worsen more rapidly, and research suggests this may be due to other health factors.
- Alzheimer’s can at times, affect an individual’s sense of smell
- More than half of all individuals with Alzheimer’s do not know that they have it
Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s?
Currently, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but with the help of caretakers and medical management, the quality of life for those affected by Alzheimer’s can be improved. In many cases, family members become designated caretakers. And most are willing to do this, but that does not mean that it is not a challenging task. It can become overwhelming and difficult to learn to adjust as the disease progresses.
At ClipDifferent we understand the challenges that can come with Alzheimer’s disease and being a caretaker for someone with the disease. Lil Nipper is a fabulous solution to make even the smallest changes in some of these caretaking challenges. Shop for Lil Nipper here.