Coping with Neurodegenerative Disease

Life can become simpler and sweeter as we age. But with aging also come many obstacles that demand us to pay closer attention to various changes in our bodies and minds.

Neurodegenerative dieseases represent a significant portion of age-related challenges that can arise as we get older. These conditions affect more than 50 million people worldwide and are more likely to occur in those over the age of 65.

But knowledge and awareness bring power and hope. Learning more about neurodegenerative diseases and how to spot and manage them can enable you to continue aging with confidence and grace.

Deciphering Neurodegenerative Diseases

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), neurodegeneration is the gradual death of brain and nerve cells. Neurodegenerative diseases have become a new point of focus for many people approaching their golden years as illnesses in this category are known to advance with age. Neurological diseases have no definite cause or cure and are debilitating for the afflicted and their families.

Alzheimer's Disease

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dementia is an umbrella term that defines the categorization of cognitive disorders. Dementia has a number of faces, the most common one being Alzheimer’s disease. This condition, which has no exact cause or defined cure, has affected an estimated 5.1 million people in the United States. Some people in the early stages of the disease experience what is called mild cognitive impairment, or MCI, while others have more severe memory loss and language inhibitions.

Lewy Body Dementia

Also known as LBD, this is another form of dementia that shares many symptoms with Alzheimer's but carries other distinct signs and symptoms, such as drowsiness, hallucinations, "spaciness," and jumbled speech.

Parkinson’s Disease

The Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders suggests that Parkinson’s disease affects more than one million Americans and, like dementia, often occurs around age 60. But, unlike dementia, Parkinson's is a disorder of the motor systems due to the depletion of brain cells that produce dopamine. The loss of these cells leads to uncontrollable trembling in the hands, legs, and arms, and stiffness, loss of balance, and reduced mobility.

Many neurodegenerative diseases have subtle signs, such as minor memory loss, that can sometimes be overlooked or perceived as natural symptoms of old age. But, despite their initially benign appearance, these diseases will cause extensive damage to the brain if left unchecked. In their severe forms, these diseases erode one's ability to communicate and care for themselves.

Many conditions on this spectrum have no known remedy. However, early intervention is essential. Recent advancements in medicine are helping people living with Alzheimer's and LBD preserve mental functioning for longer. For those with Parkinson's, effective therapies, such as deep brain stimulation and medications, are available to help reduce rigidity and tremors and strengthen mobility.

Coping with a Degenerative Condition

If you are caring for a loved one who is living with a neurodegenerative disease, such as dementia or Parkinson's, here are ways you can provide effective care without being overwhelmed.

• Be resourceful — There is a wealth of information available online to assist you and your loved one as you travel this trying path.

For more information about how you and your family can cope with the demands of dementia, visit the Alzheimer’s Association or the Lewy Body Dementia Association wesbites where you will find informative and empowering resources.

The National Parkinson Foundation has a wealth of resources and educational materials that share the latest in Parkinson's treatment, research, and awareness.

• Connect with others — Having help and support from family, friends, and local support groups both online and in the community can be highly beneficial when making decisions for the person receiving care, such as whether long-term care or home health services are needed.

• Take things slow — Caring for a person affected by dementia or Parkinson's requires patience and compassion. When speaking to your loved one, communicate slowly and allow them ample time to respond. “Be” your care recipient’s mind and keep track of essentials, such as medications and dosage times, physician’s appointments, and important phone numbers.

• Find time for yourself — One of the most important things you can do as a caregiver is to take care of yourself. Caring for a person with a degenerative illness is taxing. Find and embrace your caregiver resources, such as caregiver’s support groups, family members, a trusted therapist, or places of worship. From these you can gain the emotional support you need to guide your loved one through this challenging time.