Show #445 Airing Sunday, 8/31/08
Alzheimer’s disease can strike at any age. Even young people can suffer from this devastating disease. Here to explain is someone who knows firsthand, Mary Lou Ferguson.
Question: How has Alzheimer's affected your life?
Answer: When one is forced into retirement, they begin to question their self worth. It is a very frustrating and sad experience for people with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. Since we are so young, family and friends are normally still working and can’t stay home to assist you or spend time with you.
I did have to leave my job, but my children are very good at keeping me busy. One of my daughters owns a restaurant and bakery. I now work for her in a low-pressure position, and contributing to the business is a really healthy way for me to cope with quality of life issues.
Question: What are some of the differences between typical cases of Alzheimer's disease and early onset?
Answer: Early onset Alzheimer’s disease is diagnosed before the age of 65. While the symptoms are often similar, the early onset form of the disease is much more tightly connected to genetics. For example, my mother and all of her siblings had early onset Alzheimer’s, and now I do as well.
Question: Those with early onset Alzheimer's disease face some unique challenges. I understand you actually had a difficult time being diagnosed.
Answer: Yes, and this is a common problem that those with early onset Alzheimer’s disease face. They are not yet at retirement age, and are not eligible for Medicare. I was unable to stay at my job and therefore didn’t have insurance or a way to be diagnosed. I knew something was wrong, and because of my family history I suspected what it was, so it was frustrating not to be able to get the diagnosis. That’s when I called the Alzheimer’s Association, and they were able to help.
Question: How did the Alzheimer's Association help you?
Answer: My daughter called the Helpline when I couldn’t get diagnosed (the number will be up next). The specialists are trained to help walk both those with Alzheimer’s disease and their family members through any questions or concerns. Caregivers or people with memory loss can call if they notice any changes that they are concerned about, need support, etc.
The Alzheimer’s Association has groups for early stage individuals, called Learning Together. These groups are unique because they are not only for the caregivers/families, but also for the person with the disease as well. It gives people with memory loss an opportunity to learn about the disease from specialists, as well as, speak to others in similar situations and voice their frustrations and needs.
Question: And I understand that we in the community can help the Alzheimer's Association continue to support those in need too, this fall.
Answer: Yes! Our Memory Walk, one of two major fund raisers the Alzheimer’s Association has each year, will be held October 5th. Save the date, and call the number that’s next to sign-up your team!
If you or a loved one is struggling with memory loss, regardless of your age, give the Alzheimer’s Association a call at the number that’s next. And join the Memory Walk to show your support. My thanks to Mary Lou Ferguson.
