Is your mother, father, or someone you love slowly starting to forget everything? Do you forget something you were talking about in a matter of seconds? Do you get lost and can't find your way home? It's hard to put into words the fear, sadness, and helplessness you feel when you see things like this. This condition can be a symptom of Alzheimer's Disease. But remember, you are not alone in this battle. Today we are talking about where you can get help and accurate information at a time like this.
Simply put, what is Alzheimer's Disease?
Alzheimer's is not just a normal memory loss that happens with age. Simply put, it is a progressive disease in which brain cells are gradually destroyed. It is the most common type of dementia. As the disease progresses, memory, thinking, reasoning, and the ability to perform daily tasks are gradually lost.
Although you may forget small things at first, over time you may not be able to recognize your family members, have difficulty speaking, dress yourself, or even eat. This is a very challenging time for both the patient and you as a caregiver.
The most important thing is to be well-informed about this disease and not be afraid to ask for help. It's important for your loved one, as well as for yourself.
How can I get help in Sri Lanka?
If you suspect Alzheimer's disease, the first and most important step you should take is to see your family doctor. He or she will perform basic tests and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist.
It is usually used for conditions like:
- Neurologist: A doctor who specializes in diseases of the brain and nervous system. He or she orders tests such as CT scans and MRI scans that are needed for diagnosis.
- Psychiatrist or Psychogeriatrician: Helps manage mental health problems and behavioral changes (anger, agitation) that occur in addition to memory loss.
- Occupational Therapist: Helps the patient adjust their environment and teach them simple techniques to help them perform daily tasks (e.g., dressing, bathing, eating) as independently as possible.
- Physiotherapist: Teaches the patient exercises to maintain balance and walking ability.
Remember, it is with the help of all of these people that the patient can be given the best care. So follow the doctor's instructions exactly.
What help do you and the patient need?
Caring for an Alzheimer's patient is not something that can be viewed from just one perspective. There are many other things to consider in addition to medical treatment. Let's take a look at what those are.
| Type of help | Description and availability |
|---|---|
| Medical help | Diagnosis, medication prescription, and symptom management. You should see your doctor, neurologist, and psychiatrist for this. |
| Daily care | Creating a safe environment for the patient at home and helping with daily tasks. For this, you can seek advice from an occupational therapist. |
| Mental and emotional support | This is important for both the patient and you (the caregiver). Talk to your family and trusted friends. Seek counseling if necessary. |
| Getting information | It is important to be informed about the disease, new treatments, and how to care for patients. Ask your doctor. In addition, you can get information from reliable international websites on the Internet. |
Information from international organizations
While following medical advice in Sri Lanka, there are several international organizations that can help you learn more about this disease, read about new research happening around the world, and learn about the experiences of other patients' caregivers online. For example, the websites of organizations like the `Alzheimer's Association` and `Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI)` contain a lot of valuable information.
But remember this: Information found on the Internet is for educational purposes only. It should never be used as a substitute for the advice of your doctor. Always consult your doctor before doing anything, including changing your medication.
You need to be well to take care of the patient.
This is something we often forget. When you go to take care of your loved one, you forget about yourself. When you work hard all day, don't sleep well at night, and don't eat and drink properly, you can also become mentally and physically ill. It's called `Caregiver Burnout`.
- Ask for help: Ask for help from other family members and friends. Leave the patient to someone to take care of him for a few hours and get some rest.
- Think about your health: eat on time, drink as much water as possible, and get some exercise.
- Make time for your hobbies: Find at least 15 minutes a day to do something you enjoy, like reading a book or listening to music.
- Talk to people who have had similar experiences: There are others who are caring for patients like you. Talking to them will make you feel like you are not alone.
Only if you are healthy and happy will you be able to provide the exact care your loved one needs.
Take-Home Message
- If you notice symptoms of Alzheimer's, the first thing to do is see a doctor. Don't self-diagnose.
- This is a challenge not only for the patient, but also for you. So remember that you are not alone . Seek support from family and doctors.
- Medical treatment, daily care, and psychological support are all equally important.
- Even if you obtain information from the internet, do not use it as an alternative to medical advice.
- While caring for the patient, take care of your own physical and mental health. Only if you are well can you care for the patient well.
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