Alzheimer's is a disease of the brain that slowly destroys one's memory and ability to carry out day-to-day activities.   In 1906 Dr. Alois Alzheimer a psychiatrist and a specialist in neurological diseases cared for a woman with symptoms of memory loss, language problems, and unpredictable behavior.

            After she died, he examined her brain and identified changes in her brain tissues which included abnormal clumps and tangled fibers.  To this day these plaques and tangles remain the main features in the brain of Alzheimer's disease.  The disease was ultimately named after Dr. Alzheimer for his successful research identifying the causes of this form of dementia.  There are many different forms of dementia, but Alzheimer's continues to be the most common cause of dementia in older adults. 

            November is Alzheimer's Awareness and National Family Caregiver's Month.  It's a time to increase awareness about Alzheimer's/Dementia disease and show support to those caring for loved ones with the disease.  Over six million Americans have the disease, and most are over the age of 65.  Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease is extremely stressful to family members.  The unpredictable behaviors are a day-to-day, hour-to-hour challenge for the caregiver.  Through education and better knowledge of the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, the stress can be managed more effectively.

            Families and caregivers are the primary support for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.  Most caregivers caring for someone with the disease are over the age of 60 and are themselves susceptible to health issues. Therefore, local healthcare organizations need to be engaged and supportive to the needs of caregivers.  With November being National Family Caregiver Month, it is a time to reach out and recognize those who give so much of themselves to care for others.  It is a time to raise awareness of the issues surrounding caregiving. 

            Family Caregivers Network, a local nonmedical home care agency located in Pennsburg, specializes in the support of individuals with Alzheimer's disease. Gerry Fioriglio RN, owner of Family Caregivers Network, is a Certified Dementia Practitioner with over 40 years of experience in helping others. Her knowledge and expertise in the healthcare field are key to aiding individuals battling Alzheimer's disease as well as helping family members cope with the stress involved with the long-term illness. 

            To get more information on help with the care of someone with Alzheimer's disease, contact Family Caregivers Network at 215-541-9030 or family-caregivers.com.