Imagine waking up one morning and no longer being able to recognize the person looking back at you in the mirror. Imagine not being able to remember the man you married 50 years ago, or the children you hold so close to your heart. Your memories are all you have, especially later on in life. But imagine living in a world where you don't even have those, and on a good day you can barely remember to dress yourself. That is the reality. Crying and confusion, anger and denial, and eventually death. There is no sugarcoating this disease because it is not nice, and it is not easy. That is Alzheimer's.

What Is It?

According to Alz.org,“Alzheimer's is a progressive disease. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those with Alzheimer's live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years, depending on age and other health conditions.”

What are the Symptoms?

There are ten widely recognized symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Any of these can lead to the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.

1. Memory loss that is disruptive.
2. Difficulty in planning or in solving problems.
3. Difficulty completing tasks.
4. Confusion in time or place.
5. Problems with speaking or writing.
6. Inability to retrace steps.
7. Poor judgement.
8. Withdrawal.
9. Changes in mood.
10. Trouble with spatial reasoning.

What To Do If You or Someone You Know is Exhibiting Symptoms

Since there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, the best course of action is always to medicate the patient.

According to Alz.org, “Three cholinesterase inhibitors are commonly prescribed: Donepezil (Aricept) is approved to treat all stages of Alzheimer's. Rivastigmine (Exelon) is approved to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer's. Galantamine (Razadyne) is approved to treat mild to moderate Alzheimer's.”

Many websites exist for help and information.

Visit Alzheimers.gov or Alz.org for more information.

All information gathered courtesy of The Alzheimer's Association.