Alzheimer’s disease currently affects 5.5 million Americans. In fact, every 66 seconds, someone in this country develops it. While there is no cure, there are treatments available.
One important finding is that patients and their families are worried that they will stop enjoying the wonderful things in life. Things like family, friends, hobbies and other interests.
Research shows that socialization is key to slowing down memory loss as is essential to helping manage Alzheimer’s disease. Keeping people interested and active needs to occur to keep the brain engaged.
Friends and family of someone afflicted with any type of dementia need stimulation. While some people are uncomfortable with the thought of interacting with someone with dementia, leaving them alone only makes matters worse.
Not only are they coping with their condition, but also they feel isolated and lonely. And, family and friends are missing out on the opportunity to build new memories with their loved ones.
Juliet Holt Klinger is a gerontologist and is the Senior Director of Dementia Care for Brookdale Senior Living. She specializes in people-centric treatments related to dementia and Alzheimer’s. Brookdale is the largest senior living provider in the U.S.
Juliet Holt Klinger spoke with Michelle Tompkins for TheCelebrityCafe.com about the disease, new treatment options, the importance of socialization for those with dementia, how journaling can help both those with the disease and their loved ones better manage it and more.
Download your free Alzheimer's journal here.
Alzheimer's disease and dementia can be devastating to all involved. Lessen the impact by utilizing kindness and help keep people maintain social relationships.