What's Next After a Diagnosis?
Receiving a diagnosis for Alzheimer’s, dementia, or any other type of memory loss can be overwhelming and, frankly, a very emotional experience. But with the right help, you can move forward with the confidence that you are doing the best for everyone.
Overview
If you’re a caregiver or a family member of someone recently diagnosed, it’s important to seek support from others who have been through a similar experience. It’s not an easy process, but with a little preparation and help from others who have been there, you will be able to handle whatever may come.
Key Takeaways
- Don’t go it alone—get the support you need
- Know what questions to ask
- Gain insights to plan for the future
- Prioritize self-care
Next Steps for a Better Tomorrow
Whether you are coming into this journey as someone diagnosed in the early stages of memory loss or as a loved one of someone in a more advanced stage, it is incredibly important not to try to handle everything by yourself. Identify a relative, friend, or aide who can help you take the steps below.
Get the Support You Need
- Know that you’re not alone: Alzheimer’s affects around 5.8 million Americans and the numbers increase each year.
- Visit the Alzheimer’s Association website for online support, local chapter information, and tips for you and your loved ones.
- Ask your local Sunrise Senior Living community about support groups for caregivers.
Ask the Right Questions
- Where am I in the memory loss progression?
- What can I expect as the disease progresses?
- Who will be my primary doctor?
- What treatments are available?
- Are there clinical trials available?
Plan for the Future
- Talk with loved ones about who will make decisions on your behalf as the disease progresses and ask your lawyer about preparing a power of attorney or living will.
- Research long-term care options so you can decide how your future care will be handled.
- Meet with a lawyer specializing in elder law to discuss management of finances, property, and personal care.
- If you don’t already have a will in place, take the time to have one drafted.
Take Care of Yourself
- Anger, denial, fear, sadness, and other emotions often follow a diagnosis, so do your best to be open and honest about your feelings and seek help if needed.
- Eat brain-healthy foods—fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cold-water fish—that may help slow the progression of the disease.
- Incorporate physical and mental exercise into your daily routine. It’s good for your well-being, overall outlook, and may help slow the disease progression.
Expert Memory Care at Sunrise
Sunrise Senior Living has been a leader in memory care for 40 years and our Reminiscence Neighborhoods have safe, secure spaces designed specifically for people living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other forms of memory loss.
- We maintain a 24-hour team on-site to provide help for residents in need whenever they need it.
- We offer a large variety of activities per week at each community to help our residents stay active and engaged.
- Our team members receive robust training so they can attend to the unique needs of those experiencing memory loss.
Find a Sunrise memory care community near you and discover how we can meet your needs.