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Detecting early-onset Alzheimer’s: 10 key questions

Detecting early-onset Alzheimer’s: 10 key questions

10 Questions to Detect Early Alzheimer’s

More and more people are asking questions about early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

To follow up on our article 10 symptoms to detect early Alzheimer’s, we’ve listed 10 basic questions that can help you detect early-onset Alzheimer’s and differentiate it from normal memory-related symptoms.

 

Here are the 10 key questions that can help you identify the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

 

  1. Forgetting recent dates or events: Have you noticed frequent forgetfulness of recent dates or events?
  2. Difficulty performing household tasks: Do you find it difficult to carry out routine tasks at home or at work?
  3. Language problems: Do you find it difficult to follow or participate in conversation?
  4. Disorientation in Time or Space: Do you ever get lost or don’t understand where you are?
  5. Impaired Judgment: Have you observed any changes in judgment or decision-making?
  6. Difficulty Understanding Visual Images: Do you have vision problems that affect your ability to read, judge distances or recognize colors?
  7. Problems with Words: Do you have trouble finding the right word or naming objects?
  8. Withdrawal from Social or Work Activities: Have you withdrawn from hobbies, social activities or work?
  9. Mood and personality changes: Have you noticed any mood or personality changes, such as irritability or apathy?
  10. Loss of Initiative: Do you have reduced motivation or initiative to undertake activities?

 

Obviously, these questions to detect early Alzheimer’s do not replace a professional medical diagnosis, and any concerns about Alzheimer’s disease should be discussed with a doctor or health care professional.

If you think you may have early-onset Alzheimer’s, first read the I live with Alzheimer’s page or contact us. For more information on the different aspects of Alzheimer’s disease, see our Alzheimer’s Disease Resource Guide.

 

Today, the Alzheimer Society of Montreal remains the reference in Montreal for people with neurocognitive disease, caregivers, healthcare professionals, organizations and individuals seeking resources and services.

 

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Driving retirement and dementia – what to expect

Driving retirement and dementia – what to expect

The federal government’s recent report to parliament on Canada’s National Dementia Strategy showed that 63% of Canadians are concerned they may develop dementia, with the key fear being what the future holds.  Driving is very much tied to this.

It is projected that by 2050, 1.7 million Canadians will be living with dementia, almost two-thirds of these will be women. It is hard to fully describe how essential driving has become tied to personhood, social engagement and independence, particularly in North America with our wide geography and often substandard (or complete lack of) public transportation.

Unlike in the US, in Canada, a diagnosis of dementia does not automatically mean losing your license.  In fact, 28% of Canadians 65+ diagnosed with dementia continued to have a driving license.  However, there is no getting around the progression of dementia. The risk of a vehicle accident is 2 to 8x higher for those with dementia and following the onset of dementia, the risk of an accident doubles every 5 years.

Women are more socially connected, how to maintain this and what to expect

The importance of keeping socially connected in the wake of dementia diagnosis cannot be overstated, particularly for women who tend to be more connected with families, friends and their communities. Let’s talk through what to expect should you receive a diagnosis of dementia and what it takes to maintain your independence and stay socially engaged.

If you receive a diagnosis of dementia, your physician can provide more information about what stage of dementia you are at.  If you are at the early stage, they will conduct a screening to better understand how dementia may impact your driving, asking about your driving use and history. They will also want to assess your vision, psychomotor ability, other health conditions and medication use which can all affect your ability to drive. Their goal is to ensure your safety.

Guidelines created by experts in the field, recommend repeat assessments of driving safety for early stage dementia. If there is significant decline or progression with your dementia, your physician will likely recommend your driving safety is assessed every 6 months. If they still have concerns, they may refer you to your local multidisciplinary dementia assessment site where an Occupational Therapist can assist. They may sometimes require a comprehensive driving evaluation by a specialist.  This is both an in office testing and on road assessment, which comes at a cost to you as the patient. However, for those with moderate to severe dementia, driving is considered unsafe and the doctor will recommend you stop.

Plan for driving retirement, not social retirement – it’s a shift in mindset

It’s important to recognize that the earlier you begin having conversations with your physician about your driving, the better prepared you can be.  No physician relishes the idea of having someone’s license suspended, but they are legally obligated to notify the provincial registrar if a patient continues to drive after being warned not to. So what can you do in this scenario?

Plan for driving retirement, but not social retirement. The cost of maintaining a car is $8000 to $20,000 in Quebec, along with the stress of difficult driving conditions during the winter.  Instead, use those funds to open up a “travel account”.  Plan together with trusted family members for regular transportation, consider Lyft, Uber and other taxi options in which a set amount can be deposited yearly and drawn down for use.  Schedule regular accessibility public transport options, commuting with a friend and consider home delivery of groceries if available, and hosting regular social events at your home so that you don’t have to travel often.

Perhaps the best way to think about driving is as a privilege we all have to earn and eventually, as with work, we earn the privilege of not having to drive ourselves around. It requires a shift in mindset. But staying connected with family and your community, maintaining your independence and personhood is a right that doesn’t disappear with dementia. We would do well to support it.

 

Written by: Dr. Saskia Sivananthan is an Affiliate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine at McGill University and was formerly the Chief Research Officer for the Alzheimer Society of Canada. 

Get Involved for the Cause: Join the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s Radiothon on February 12th and 13th!

Get Involved for the Cause: Join the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s Radiothon on February 12th and 13th!

Radiothon

by Alzheimer Society Montréal

 

On February 12th and 13th, the Alzheimer Society of Montreal is hosting a major event to raise essential funds to support its crucial initiatives in prevention, health promotion, awareness, as well as programs and services dedicated to individuals living with a neurocognitive disorder in Montreal. It’s a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of many people, both young and old, affected by this condition.

 

3 Reasons to Participate in the Radiothon!

 

1. Support for Prevention and Health Promotion Actions:

The Alzheimer Society of Montreal actively engages in prevention and health promotion actions, but also offers numerous programs and services to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease as well as their caregivers and families! By participating in the Radiothon, you are directly contributing to these initiatives.

 

2. Raising Awareness for the Cause:

By joining forces during this event, we strengthen awareness around neurocognitive disorders. The more of us who participate, the more we can spread the message and educate the community about the current realities and future realities surrounding neurocognitive disorders.

 

3. Support for Local Programs and Services:

Funds collected during the Radiothon will be directly invested in programs and services offered in Montreal. This includes a range of resources and supports for individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as for their caregivers and loved ones.

 

How to Donate?

To contribute to this noble cause, you can dial (514) 846-3535 and make your donation by phone. You can also make a quick donation by encountering our volunteers in the metro stations: Square Victoria OACI, Jean-Talon, Berri-Quam, Honoré-Beaugrand, and Lionel-Groulx. If you prefer an online method, visit the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s website.

 

Join the Mobilization!

By participating in the Radiothon on February 12th and 13th, you are joining a committed community. Every donation, whether small or large, makes a significant difference. Share this information with your loved ones, on social media, and encourage your network to mobilize for this cause that affects many families in Montreal.

 

Together, let’s make a difference in the lives of those living with a neurocognitive disorder. Your support matters!

 

Li’lDoc: Alzheimer’s disease explained to children aged 6 to 8

Li’lDoc: Alzheimer’s disease explained to children aged 6 to 8

Li’lDoc: Alzheimer’s disease explained to children aged 6 to 8

Grandma or Grandpa is living with Alzheimer’s disease. How do you find the right words to talk to your child about this disease?

Li’lDoc is here to help! Li’lDoc is a doctor who, accompanied by her funny and endearing chameleon friend Geeko, explains health pathologies simply and accurately through a cartoon and a collection of books (only available in French for now), among other things**.

Watch the episode on Alzheimer’s disease right now:

 

Why talk to your children about Alzheimer’s disease?

      Our children witness health problems that can affect the adults around them. This can create anxiety in them,                especially when they don’t understand exactly what’s going on. While the diagnosis is more common within the              elderly, Alzheimer’s disease can affect people of all ages.

      So it’s important to understand it, whether or not it’s present in the family, because it can affect the family in the            future and create confusion (e.g., “Why doesn’t Grandma act like she used to?”).

Image caption (below the image shown above): Image taken from the “Alzheimer’s disease” episode of the “Ask Li’lDoc”series.

 

Li’lDoc cartoon

Ask Li’lDoc is a 52-episode cartoon that explains health problems such as ear infections, gastroenteritis, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, ADHD and more to children aged 6 to 8. The episodes are available free of charge on Knowledge Kids.

Image caption: Image from the “What is Alzheimer’s disease?” episode of the “Ask Li’lDoc” series.

What is the Li’lDoc universe?**

Li’lDoc is much more than just a cartoon. Its mission is to EDUCATE using medical information certified and validated by a scientific committee; to REASSURE children and their parents about various health problems; to PROMOTE good health practices; and to INSPIRE children to take an interest in medical professions. Li’lDoc was created by Gala Prod.

 

Discover the Li’lDoc Universe:

For more information: www.tidoc.ca/en

SELENA Residence : A care-oriented living environment where people with memory impairment can enjoy an improved quality of life.

SELENA Residence : A care-oriented living environment where people with memory impairment can enjoy an improved quality of life.

A warm and dedicated welcome

Imagine walking into our facility and being greeted by warm, caring staff members dedicated to providing thoughtful support to residents, caregivers and their families. Our team is made up of qualified and empathetic professionals trained specifically to work with people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. Every day, they commit to providing each resident with a safe and comforting environment.

 

Marc’s inspiring journey as a resident attendant – An approach focused on individual needs

Let me tell you about the inspiring journey of our resident attendant Marc, who has developed a close relationship with our resident Mr. Dupont—a man living with Alzheimer’s disease. Over time, and thanks to Mr. Dupont’s life story document outlining his preferences, interests and habits, Marc got well acquainted with the resident and made a special connection with him.

Rather than focusing solely on basic tasks, Marc pays special attention to Mr. Dupont’s unique needs. He relies on nonverbal communication techniques adapted to the progression of the disease to connect with the resident and form a bond of trust. Marc is well aware that while words may vanish from Mr. Dupont’s memory, his emotions and sensations will remain. Hence, he makes sure every interaction between them is compassionate and respectful.

 

Personalized activities to stimulate the memory – A typical week in a resident’s life

Marc uses personalized occupational activities to jog Mr. Dupont’s memory. He suggests memory games, puzzles and sensory activities to spark the resident’s interest and foster engagement. Aside from the cognitive benefits, these activities also give Mr. Dupont a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.

 

Caring staff members who create a safe environment – What sets us apart? Our approach.

The caring staff members at Selena Residence are a source of comfort for Mr. Dupont. He knows he can count on them to provide a safe environment where he can feel at home. Every smile, word of encouragement and kind gesture is a hallmark of our staff’s approach. Thanks to their reassuring presence, Mr. Dupont can enjoy a feeling of safety that melts away his worries and anxiety.

 

Improving quality of life through a global approach

Our attendant Marc’s journey is a perfect example of our resident-centred approach at Selena Residence. By combining quality care, personalized occupational activities and adapted stimulation, we strive to improve the quality of life of people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

 

Selena Residence – Bringing more lightness and compassion into daily life

At Selena Residence, we are proud to count on caring and competent staff members. They allow every resident to enjoy more lightness and compassion in their daily life. To learn more about Selena Residence, visit our website at www.residenceselena.com or phone us at 514-213-7816.

 

Improving Cognitive Health Through Dance Therapy

Improving Cognitive Health Through Dance Therapy

A Dance Towards the Future

The collaborative efforts of Doctors Louis Bherer and Manuel Montero-Odasso have yielded fascinating results. Their study[1] focused on 175 individuals aged 60 to 85 with mild cognitive impairment. Participants engaged in a physical activity and cognitive training program three times a week for six months. The results are promising: the combination of physical exercise and cognitive stimulation demonstrated significant improvements in the cognitive health of the participants. This discovery opens new possibilities for slowing the progression toward major neurocognitive disorders.

The Art of Movement

It is in this context that dance therapy[2] takes center stage. Indeed, it is another innovative form of intervention worthy of our attention. What makes dance therapy truly exceptional is its ability to touch every aspect of the human being. From physical movements that enhance coordination to emotional expressions that speak without words, dance therapy opens a new window into understanding ourselves and others.

 

Free dance therapy

Dance therapy reminds us that art and movement are powerful catalysts for healing. As research advances and new avenues open up, we are encouraged to recognize the potential of dance therapy in our quest for improved cognitive and emotional health. The Alzheimer Society of Montreal offers a creative dace activity, in collaboration with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. This dance and movement activity offered by the National Centre For Dance Therapy is adapted for people with neurocognitive disorders and their caregivers. Register and try it for free!

Join us to unleash your creativity and enjoy the physical benefits.

For more information and registration: 514 369-0800 | [email protected].

 

[1] https://nouvelles.umontreal.ca/article/2023/08/17/une-etude-porteuse-d-espoir-pour-les-personnes-qui-ont-un-trouble-cognitif-leger/

[2] https://www.lapresse.ca/societe/2023-08-20/danse-therapie/la-danse-qui-fait-du-bien.php?redirectedFrom=https%253A%252F%252Fplus.lapresse.ca%252Fscreens%252Fc6b2a127-3d23-4c70-9bce-751e8658c70e%25257C_0.html

For a healthy brain

For a healthy brain

Take action to reduce your risks
 
In Quebec, nearly 170,000 people are living with Alzheimer’s disease. If this trend continues, that means 360,000 Quebecers will be diagnosed with a form of dementia by 2050.
 
But, according to the Landmark Study that was published by the Alzheimer Society of Canada in October 2022, taking action at any age can help to reduce our risks of developing the disease.
 
 
 

Hard Science and Soft Skills: Homecare Workers Need Both

Hard Science and Soft Skills: Homecare Workers Need Both

By Andrew De Four, President, Customized Homecare

                                                                                                                   

The assessment was complete, and the meeting booked. But when Maggie, our Director of Care, rang the doorbell, the elderly woman had just one thing to say: “Go away!”. Maggie had experienced this before, so in an inquisitive tone she drew the woman’s attention to something else: “Those are beautiful paintings on your wall. Can you tell me about them?”. Moments later the two were sitting on the sofa, with Maggie listening to stories about the cherished art.

 It is of course essential that homecare workers be well-trained and know the latest developments in dementia care. But they also need the soft skills you won’t find on any diploma: Empathy, patience, and compassion, and a good understanding of how to apply them when caring for someone living with dementia.  

 Without the right approach and temperament, caregivers can provoke anxiety, leading to an unsuccessful match and sending a family in need back to square one. Being a caregiver is a challenging vocation requiring an elevated level of adaptability, so it’s essential to look for a homecare provider that puts a premium on attitude and experience.

 A good caregiver will keep eye contact and smile, and recognize when a stare becomes a glare, signalling a change of mood. Their body language will be open and relaxed. And when vision or hearing is impaired, they’ll know when to stay within a loved one’s field of vision and when to come in close to avoid provoking a fear response. They’ll speak calmly and gently and measure their tone to achieve a desired result. They’ll give simple instructions, coupled with gesturing, then leave time for the person to process the information and respond. They’ll repeat instructions as often as needed. And as I mentioned at the outset, they’ll know the fine art of redirecting, to avoid unnecessary conflict. And they’ll answer each repeated question as if it was the first time asked.

 Good caregivers know the diverse ways the disease can manifest and the importance of routines. They know about concepts like “sundowning” and how to manage the irritability and confusion that can worsen in the evening, provoking wandering, pacing and a poor sleep pattern. They know that avoiding daytime napping and caffeine and having a predictable sleep schedule can make a significant difference. And they know when to participate in or let a misperception of reality play out without questioning or criticism.

 Those living with dementia often refuse things they need. “No” to taking medication, taking a shower, or letting a caregiver into their home. But the caregiver needs to drop the “no” from their own vocabulary, to avoid putting the loved one, who is an adult, on the defensive. Instead, they must strive for connection.

 At the end of the day, it all comes down to dignity. Giving the loved one and their family the ability to relax a little, because they feel well cared for. At Customized Homecare “your family is ours”, and when someone calls, we pick up the phone and are ready to listen and tailor a care program to your needs. It’s a relationship, and we work tirelessly to ensure it lasts.

 Customized Homecare is one of Montreal’s leading homecare service providers, serving families across the island and beyond. Reach their qualified and experienced team by calling (514) 418-0520 or at customizedhomecare.ca

My eldest brother, Stefano, he’s an extraordinary character

My eldest brother, Stefano, he’s an extraordinary character

“In January 2020, my brother suddenly lost his short-term memory, and became totally dependent on me to be his memory and to work out very simple everyday things.

Dr. Doell, a physician specializing in geriatrics and internal medicine at the Montreal General Hospital diagnosed him with a neurocognitive disorder related to Alzheimer’s. Fortunately, he called the Alzheimer Society of Montreal.

They have been amazing since that first contact, offering all kinds of support.

What the Alzheimer Society of Montreal has done with homecare has been priceless!

I also had the chance to talk with Naima, a counsellor at the Alzheimer Society of Montreal. She has been a gem! These discussions with Naima are excellent support sessions for me and have given me the strength and courage to continue.

That is why I am writing this testimonial today about this wonderful organization, the Alzheimer Society of Montreal, and what it does for me, for my brother and, I am sure, for thousands of other Montrealers.”

— Clare, caregiver

Please make a donation so that the Alzheimer Society of Montreal can continue to provide in-home respite and support to Clare and her brother Stefano, as well as other people with neurocognitive disorders and their caregivers.

A $100 donation provides 2 hours of in-home respite and stimulation.

MAKE A DONATION

Send an E-card to a loved one by email while supporting the Alzheimer Society of Montreal

Send an E-card to a loved one by email while supporting the Alzheimer Society of Montreal

Send an E-card to a loved one by email while supporting the Alzheimer Society of Montreal

By Brendan Billa

Pick a card among the artwork below, created by participants in the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s art therapy workshops.

Add you own customized message to the card and send it to an acquaintance or a loved one by email, a gesture that will surely be appreciated!

100% of the proceeds from these cards will be invested in activities and support services for people living with a neurocognitive disorder and their caregivers. You will receive a tax deductible receipt for the entire amount of your purchase.

Through art therapy workshops, people living with dementia have the opportunity to express themselves and enhance their well-being. The workshops imbue the present moment with meaning and allow participants to maintain their dignity. We invite you to view the vernissage presenting the artwork created by participants in the Alzheimer Society of Montreal’s art therapy workshops in 2021.

SEND AN E-CARD

Our first article in Montreal enSANTÉ magazine: A difficult diagnosis

Our first article in Montreal enSANTÉ magazine: A difficult diagnosis

A difficult diagnosis

OVERCOMING THE MULTIFACETED IMPACTS OF A DIAGNOSIS OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR ANOTHER NEUROCOGNITIVE DISORDER

By Sarah Djimani and collaborators of the Alzheimer Society of Montreal

We are very pleased to present our first article in the prestigious Montreal enSANTÉ magazine! In this edition, Sarah Djimani and contributors of the Alzheimer Society of Montreal highlight the multidimensional impacts of an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis.

Over the next few months, the Alzheimer Society of Montreal will be publishing severalarticles in Montréal enSANTÉ magazine on a variety of themes related to neurocognitive disorders. We will also have the opportunity to collaborate with some experts who will contribute their knowledge regarding the issues discussed. 

We hope, in collaboration with Montréal enSANTÉ, that we will be able to reach a large audience in Quebec to raise awareness about neurocognitive disorders. 

To read the article, click here. 

Montréal enSANTÉ magazine is available online and in the following locations:

  • CLSCs and private medical clinics
  • Pharmacies : Jean Coutu, Pharmaprix, Proxim, Uniprix, Familiprix, Brunet
  • Grocery Stores : Avril Santé, TAU, Métro, IGA, Provigo, Super C, Adonis, Rachelle-Béry, Naturiste
  • Gyms and spas

Montréal enSanté, Quebec’s only bilingual health and wellness magazine

Montréal enSanté (MES) is loaded with expert advice from physicians, dieticians, personal trainers and laypeople who love the city we call home. In addition to articles focused on health, nutrition, and fitness, each issue features an entire section dedicated to the innovative clinical care and cutting-edge research taking place at the McGill University Health Centre. Every issue is promoted on local radio stations CJAD and The Beat for a two-week period. The commercials inform and the public on where to pick up their free copy. Current and back issues can easily be accessed online at montrealensante.com and muhc.ca.

Thank you to our partner Montréal enSANTÉ