Stages of Alzheimer's
Early Stage
The
early stage of Alzheimer's is difficult to recognize because it may not be Alzheimer's. There are products that can help and The Alzheimer's Store carries those specific to the disease. First gather knowledge. We recommend two essential tools: Teepa Snow's DVDs 'The Journey of Dementia' and 'Progression of Dementia-Seeing Gems Not Just Loss.' You can also look at our Teepa Snow category for a FREE ebook that describes many forms of dementia not just Alzheimer's. Preparing yourself and your home for safety purposes is explained in 'The Complete Guide to Alzheimer's Proofing Your Home.'
In the early stage when a person starts to become forgetful, misplaces items, gets disoriented and has a more difficult time expressing themselves, that is the time for the caregiver to become familiar with the symptoms of the disease. It is believed that continued physical and mental stimulation can slow down the progression of these symptoms. We offer stimulating
activities, games, puzzles and other products that support aerobic exercise, hand/eye coordination and brain challenges.
The early stage of Alzheimer's is also a time to start training on how to use products that will be more helpful as the disease progresses such as our
dementia clocks and Reminder Rosie. A great help is our Emergency Medical Alert Bracelet. This state of the art fashionable bracelet contains all the medical and emergency records that you want to provide. Please contact us if you have ideas for products we should carry or develop.
Middle Stage
The
middle stage of Alzheimer's involves interaction with the caregiver. It is at this time that the patient starts to realize that help is needed to continue living as independently as possible. The caregiver needs to stay educated and focused on the various ways to care for their loved one. We highly recommend Teepa Snow's DVD, 'It's All In Your Approach.' Understanding the slight nuances to behavior can make a large difference in communication.
The middle stage is also a time to be monitoring the location of the patient through the use of motion detectors, communication devices and even
GPS monitors. Wandering is a condition that occurs during this stage. Bathroom and kitchen safety are of vital importance for the independence and respect of the patient. Through the use of special signage, dinnerware, phones, and medical dispensers, the loved one can have items introduced into their daily habits without them really recognizing that something special is happening.
During this stage,
incontinence products start to become necessary. The Alzheimer's Store has tested them all! There is a science to the design and absorbency of these products and we believe our selection is the best that can be offered. Once a customer tries our Tranquility products, they never buy store brands again. While the initial cost may be more, you use less and the patient is made more comfortable.
Late Stage
The
late stage of Alzheimer's is the most dramatic. It is marked by severe incapacitation and loss of verbal skills. Walking and sitting become difficult as well as experiencing delirium and hallucinations. There is a big shift in mood and behavior.
The Alzheimer's Store has acquired the EXCLUSIVE right to market certain products that are most helpful to this stage of the disease. Our plates and soup bowls of contrasting colors are specially designed to accommodate the rotating motion of a spoon that a person can still do long after they no longer can use a fork. Our
one-way straw exclusively sold in North America by The Alzheimer's Store is designed to minimize air intake while making liquid food ingestion less frustrating. Even in the late stages, our unique music products are very therapeutic. The Simple Music Player as well as our art, music, and remembrance DVDs bring hours of therapeutic activity and joy.
Our senior home safety products help secure every room in your home or facility, from living quarters to bathrooms and bedrooms. From plate guards and weighted cutlery to senior
bath products and magnetic locks, our severe dementia care solutions are an affordable way to protect yourself and the Alzheimer's patient in your life. And to ease the pains of confusing communication, the Alzheimer's Store language cards help patient and caregiver cross difficult barriers.
If you have trouble finding the right solution for your patient or if you have questions about the options in our online store, feel free to call us toll free at 1-800-752-3238.
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