Living With Alzheimer’s or Another Neurocognitive Disorder
Resources That Make All the Difference
Normal aging in adults can include sporadic memory loss or concentration difficulties. Neurocognitive disorders, for their part, can be characterized by frequent memory problems, spatial and temporal disorientation, loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, etc. When the problem seems to persist, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor for reassurance, advice or a more precise diagnosis, if necessary.
If you have recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another neurocognitive disorder, The Alzheimer Society of Montreal is here to support you, provide information and offer tips and advice on how to live better with the disease.
What Is Alzheimer’s?
Alzheimer’s is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that destroys neurons, impairing cognitive function and memory over time. It is an irreversible pathology that is not part of normal aging.
Normal Aging or Neurocognitive Disorder?
Below are some differences between a memory disorder that can appear as part of normal aging and signs of Neurocognitive Disorders. The following table is not a diagnostic tool. However, it offers some clues as to whether memory problems experienced are a normal part of aging or related to a possible neurological disorder such as Alzheimer’s. If you have any questions about your cognitive health, consult a healthcare professional.
Memory Disorders Associated With Normal Aging
- Forgetting a conversation or event from the past (one year ago)
- Forgetting the name of an acquaintance
- Occasionally searching for one’s words
- You’re concerned about your memory, but the people around you are not
Early Signs of Possible Neurocognitive Disorder
- Forgetting a conversation or event that happened in the last few days or hours
- Forgetting the name of a close family member
- Frequently searching for one’s words and making substitutions
- The people around you are concerned about your memory, but you are not
Benefits of Diagnosing a Neurocognitive Disorder such as Alzheimer’s Disease Early
It is completely normal to dread a diagnosis and even want to avoid it. However, early diagnosis provides many benefits, which are explained in the fact sheet, which you can read by clicking below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the early symptoms of a neurocognitive disorder?
- Temporal and spatial confusion
- Loss of interest
- Missing objects
- Changes in mood, behaviour and personality
- Difficulty with everyday tasks
- Difficulty with concepts
- Impaired judgment
- Language and communication problems
- Memory problems affecting functioning
- Impaired vision and motor skills
What are the stages of Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease generally progresses through four stages:
The Mild Stage
In the mild stage of the disease, symptoms may include memory loss in those affected, changes in the way they communicate and behave, as well as in their mood and concentration. At this early stage of the disease, people are still independent; they can talk about their experience with others and understand the changes that are taking place. When a person is diagnosed in the early stages, it can be an opportunity for them to be involved in decisions about the care and life path they want for themselves throughout the gradual progression of the disease.
The Moderate Stage
In the moderate stage of the disease, symptoms become more pronounced. It becomes more difficult to carry out activities of daily living. Some people remain aware of their condition. At this stage, family caregivers can help people living with the disease to carry out the tasks they are still capable of performing.
The Advanced Stage
In the advanced stage of the disease, people living with a neurocognitive disorder diagnosis will require greater support to take care of themselves and will rely more on non-verbal communication to interact with family and healthcare providers. At this stage of the disease, people living with a neurocognitive disorder often require round-the-clock care and support to ensure optimal quality of life.
End of Life
At the end-of-life stage, care is needed 24 hours a day, and maintaining the person’s comfort is paramount.
As symptoms of the disease become increasingly present, care is provided to meet their physical, emotional and spiritual needs.
How to Determine If Someone Has A neurocognitive disorder?
While nearly 40% of people aged 65 and over experience memory loss from time to time, not all of them suffer from a neurocognitive disorder. Consult the table above to distinguish the differences between a neurocognitive disorder and normal aging.
According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, at least 28,000 people in Canada are living with early-onset neurocognitive disorders. Since these disorders are complex to diagnose, the number is likely to be higher.
If you have any doubt, consult your doctor. They can refer you to a professional who specializes in caring for people with a neurocognitive disorder. These specialists include:
- Memory clinics
- Neurologists
- Geriatric psychologists
- Clinical psychologists
- Neuropsychologists
- Neuropsychiatrists
For information about a neurocognitive disorder, visit the Alzheimer Society of Canada’s information page.
What Are the First Steps After Diagnosis?
People diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related disease can continue to lead a rich and productive life for many years after being diagnosed.
To learn more, check out the cognitive health awareness videos on our YouTube channel.
You can also read the brochure about the early stages of the disease.
What Treatments Are Currently Available for Alzheimer’s?
There is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. However, there are four drugs approved by Health Canada to treat the symptoms of the disease. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to find out if this drug is suitable for the person diagnosed.
Is Alzheimer’s a Genetic Disease?
Less than 5% of Alzheimer’s cases are related to genetic factors. Genetic testing is only an option for family members with young onset familial Alzheimer’s disease. No reliable genetic test exists for the common sporadic form of Alzheimer’s disease.
Activities and Services Offered
The Alzheimer Society of Montreal offers a wide range of activities and services for people living with a neurocognitive disorder, as well as the caregivers who support them daily. These include stimulating therapeutic activities and respite care, as well as recreational and artistic activities, and even training to help people learn to cope better with the diagnosis. Everything is done to provide you with human and caring support.
Some activities are designed specifically for the person living with Alzheimer’s, while others are offered alongside a caregiver.
We Are Here for You!
Our team is always available to support you on your journey with a neurocognitive disorder. Contact us today.
