I've heard it said that only hindsight is 20/20.
Looking back it is easy to see a pattern of behaviors prior to my aunt's diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
If we could go back and relive that time again, we would do many things differently.
We now have an idea of where to begin, but at the time her symptoms first started we were totally overwhelmed.
We recognized the changes in her behavior but never considered that the reason could be Alzheimer's.
We've since learned the importance of an early diagnosis.
Some of the medications used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's can slow the progression of the disease.
The sooner a person suffering from the disease begins these medications, the better off they may be.
So if you suspect someone you love could be suffering from Alzheimer's disease, how should you handle getting a diagnosis? First, as an Alzheimer's caregiver, suggest to your loved one that you think a check-up with the doctor might be a good idea.
Then discuss your concerns with the doctor and your family member if you think that's in their best interest.
If not, plan a visit to the doctor without your family member to discuss your concerns and get advice from him.
Laws protecting patient privacy always need to be respected, but the originals of the Medical Power of Attorney will make it easier for those named in the document to gain access to the doctor.
If the doctor is a general practitioner, ask for a referral to a geriatric specialist who deals specifically with Alzheimer's.
Ask questions about how to handle the situation.
Do you tell your loved one you suspect a problem? How do you get them to a doctor to be tested without upsetting them? I know families who have told their loved one he/she had Alzheimer's.
Others were advised not to tell because the victim will often turn on the ones who give him that information.
Our family member is now over six years into the disease and she still has no idea there is a problem.
She routinely looks around at some of the other residents who live in the home where she resides and talks about how sorry she feels for them.
She and her best friends often discuss how they would rather die than get Alzheimer's.
Telling her that we suspected she could have had the disease prior to the diagnosis or even telling her that now would be catastrophic.
It would only cause her pain, worry, frustration, anger, etc.
Nothing good would result from her being told.
Advice from experts in the field, especially those who know your family member personally, will help you know how to handle this situation with your loved one.
For your sake as an Alzheimer's caregiver, locate an Alzheimer's support group and make it a priority to attend their meetings.
Such groups are usually led by a trained medical and/or mental health professional knowledgeable of the various aspects of Alzheimer's.
Social workers might also lead a support group.
These groups can be found in long-term care facilities, hospitals, churches, and community centers.
You might discover that the members of an Alzheimer's support group have already dealt with the issues you are facing.
They may be able to provide a wealth of information and encouragement as ones who have "been there and done that", especially those who are dealing with the latter stages of the disease.
They understand the emotional aspect of facing the disease personally.
An Alzheimer's support group can be an invaluable resource for those providing help for the victims of this terrible disease.