In 2015, our friend, Marcia Stanford passed away after battling with Alzheimer’s/Lewy Body Dementia at the age of 54. Five years later, my father-in-law was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s at the age of 90. I write this article in memory of Marcia and in honor of my father-in-law, Alex, who is currently engaged in the battle. According to Dr. Tan Cummings, Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. She wrote "Untangling Alzheimer’s: The Guide for Families and Professionals" as an informative handbook with instruction on how to live when you find yourself in the Alzheimer’s arena. She discusses the various types of dementia and the stages of Alzheimer’s, whose progression can be hindered, but not cured, if caught early.

Only 10% of the 6 million who live with Alzheimer’s are under the age of 65; whether you’re 40 or 90, here are the signs of the disease’s early stage called Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI):

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily functionality
2. Struggles with concentrating or solving problems
3. Struggles with familiar tasks like making lists
4. Confusion with time or place like forgetting where they are
5. Struggles with perception or visuals while reading or walking
6. New struggles with phrases or words in speaking or writing
7.  Misplacing things or loosing the ability to retrace ones’ steps
8. Decreased or poor judgement in aspects of life, like grooming
9. Withdrawal for social activities and being more isolated
10. Showing signs of changed moods or behaviors like suspicion

If you recognize any of these symptoms consider visiting a doctor who specializes in neurology, psychology, psychiatry or geriatrics to get a diagnosis. There is research being done and various treatments being offered to treat symptoms. Here are three resources to help you:

Alzheimer’s Association, https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/visiting-your-doctor

MayoClinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimersdisease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447

Dr. Tan Cummings, https://tamcummings.com/

Your Saint John’s Mental Health Ministry hopes these resources are helpful and we hope you know it’s okay to ask for help!