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As a person ages, a certain amount of memory loss and confusion is quite normal. Personally, I*ve been known to invoke the clich*, *The older I get, the better I was!* Unfortunately, Alzheimer's disease represents a more serious loss of mental sharpness and calls for special care for seniors.

Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's Disease is a progressive form of pre-senile dementia. Symptoms are typically first noted in a person's late forties or early fifties. As the disease takes effect, it will first impact memory. Impaired thought and speech will follow with the patient eventually becoming helpless.

Alzheimer's is a truly horrible disease because it robs a person of their ability to function. The disease is also damaging to family and friends as it is very difficult to watch a parent, brother, sister or friend progress to the point where they don*t recognize anyone. The burden of caring for a person suffering from Alzheimer's is significant. At some point in time, a family will have to look for assistance with the care.

Most *board and care* and *assisted living facilities* are willing and capable of providing for a person suffering from Alzheimer*s. These facilities are similar to nursing homes, but with less of an institutional atmosphere. If, however, a senior becomes increasingly disoriented, perhaps even occasionally wandering away, they may require a facility with a dementia waiver.

Despite the name, a *dementia waiver* is an indication that a facility and staff have additional training and licensing for the care of patients with dementia. On top of the additional training, the actual facility may be secured with a perimeter to keep patients on the grounds.

Alzheimer's disease leaves a mark on family and friends as well as the victim. There are, however, facility options that can at least take the care burden off of you.