 During the program, explanations were given for both disorders and
key points for recognizing the illnesses were shared with attendees.
When considering whether or not a person may be suffering the onset
of Alzheimer’s it can sometimes be difficult because some of the
symptoms experienced are very similar to typical signs of aging. The
problems can be recognized, when these typical issues of aging
intensify. For example, as we age, it is typical that we might
sometimes forget a name or an appointment. It is also typical that
we might make an occasional error in our checkbooks. But with
developing Alzheimer’s Disease, forgetful increases to a point where
that one cannot keep track of daily activities without memory aids
such as notes or reminders from family members. Also growing
confusion and inability to work with numbers to a point where that
the person finds it impossible to do tasks such as follow a recipe
or understand a monthly bill, are signs that there is a bigger
issue.
Another warning sign is that something typical that becomes atypical
is the ability to understand and participate in conversations.
Everyone from time to time loses their “train of through,” but if
the problem becomes so intense that the person is unable to complete
a conversation at all, that could be a sign of a much larger
problem.
When these bigger problems start, it can result in personality
changes within the victim of the illness. Victims may become
confused, suspicious of friends and family, fearful and anxious.
They may also withdraw from social situations and lose interest in
favorite activities or hobbies.
For family dealing with an Alzheimer’s victim, witnessing these
changes in loved ones can be very difficult. They may feel that the
person they love and care about is gone.
The women shared a handout of a poem by Tara Reed about Alzheimer’s
If Alzheimer’s could
speak
Talk to me….
I can hear your words and they still touch my soul.
Smile at me….
My eyes can see you and feel your heart even if I don’t remember how
to smile back.
Hold my hand….
I can feel your energy when your hands connect. It makes me feel
safe and less alone.
Love me…
My heart can feel your love even if my words can’t express mine.
Live your life….
Help me on my path but don’t press pause on your life. Be the
vibrant person I know and love.
Trust the process…
I know this is hard and not what we planned but trust the process.
We can’t control it, but we can choose our focus. Remember the good
times, know that I am ok and that you are always in my heart.
In understanding Dementia, it was explained that the disorder is
caused by damage to the brain. They specific symptoms displayed will
depend upon the area of the brain that is affected.
Symptoms of Dementia are very similar to those of Alzheimer’s and
may include “Day to day memory, concentration, planning, making
decisions, problem-solving, or carrying out a sequence of tasks such
as cooking a meal.”
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Signs of Dementia may include changes in mood, hallucinations, and delusions.
Dementia is a progressive disorder, so as time goes by, symptoms will worsen.
Dementia will also have physical effects on victims. As time progresses, the
person may show significant weight loss and increased weakness of the muscles.
The will also become very limited verbally.
There is no cure for Dementia nor is there a specific treatment for the disease.
Therefore, it is important to give the best care possible under the
circumstances, something that can take its toll on family members as they strive
to be the caregiver for their ailing loved one.
The discussion moved on to how the professional staff at Copper Creek Cottages
will be able to assist the victim and family members. They will provide a safe,
caring environment, in a setting will help assure as much independence as
possible for the patient, while still keeping a caring eye on the progress of
their illness.
The facility, now under construction behind Timber Creek Village and Abraham
Lincoln Memorial Hospital, will offer “home-like” living for up to 33 residents.
The layout will include one-bedroom studio style apartments and also two bedroom
apartments. The facility will also provide ample community space for
socialization and secured outdoor spaces as well.
Services to residents will include 24-hour care, emergency call response
systems, activities and walking paths, medication management and health
evaluations by licensed nurses.
Lifestyle services will include freshly prepared meals and snacks, housekeeping
service and laundry service.
Caring staff specializing in the care of people with Alzheimer’s and Dementia
will be on hand at all time. Nurses will be on hand consistently from 8 a.m. to
8 p.m. and available on call from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily.
Copper Creek Cottages is scheduled to open either late May or early June. Anyone
who wishes to learn more about the facility and services offered may contact
Cathy Sparks at 217-821-7068 or call 217-651-8364. Interested persons might also
want to learn more through the Copper Creek website
www.coppercreekcottages.com
[Roy Logan/Nila Smith]
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