Is it a 'Senior Moment' or Something More Serious?
Little Company News
09/17/2008
Little Company of Mary Hospital Offers Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program
Have you wondered whether a family member or friend's confusion, forgetfulness or slowed thinking should be something to worry about? Although brains, like the body, change through aging, there are certain symptoms that indicate a more serious issue such as Alzheimer's, and should be consulted with a doctor.
Alzheimer's disease is a degenerative brain disorder that affects as many as 5 million people in the United States and is the most common cause of dementia in seniors. Alzheimer's affects the parts of the brain that control thought, memory, and language. The disease begins slowly. At first, the only symptom may be mild forgetfulness. People with Alzheimer's may have trouble remembering recent events, activities, or the names of familiar people or things.
Although there is no formal early diagnoses procedure, such as blood kits or x-rays, a vast amount of recent research has found better ways to treat Alzheimer's, delay its onset, and help prevent it from developing. There are now medications available that when given early, patients can remain much more stable and prevent the disease from growing.
Dr. Michael Thomas (left) and Dr. Syed Mohsin (right)
Dr. Michael Thomas, director of the Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program at Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers has been treating patients suffering from Alzheimer's for more than 20 years. 'The biggest step for families is to bring their family member to see a doctor. I have encountered many situations where families delayed a visit out of fear. Alzheimer's is a time-sensitive disease and it is crucial to see a doctor immediately to receive the proper diagnoses and treatment.'
Along with Dr. Thomas, Dr. Syed Mohsin works with Alzheimer's patients through the Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program and recommends some activities for families whose loved one received an Alzheimer's diagnoses:
· Join an exercise and/or activity group specifically geared for people with dementia. They provide crucial benefits for patients to maintain stability for longer periods of time, and can be found at places such as Little Company of Mary's Adult Day Center in Evergreen Park. Trained professionals can productively lead games/activities and also importantly, provide the family necessary breaks.
· Families should participate in support groups. Knowing what other family members are doing, can provide new and useful ways to help deal with different situations.
· Set up different solution plans. When you pre-plan event solutions, you are not rushing around trying to deal with an unpredictable situation at 3 AM when mom wants to take a drive.
Seniors also commonly suffer from depression possibly due to boredom and loneliness. But it is important to get a medical evaluation to rule out Alzheimer's and other forms of senile dementia that also can cause depression.
The Little Company of Mary Adult Day Center provides care for adults with impaired physical, psychosocial or emotional abilities, and who need supervision. They receive individualized, compassionate care during the day in the home-like warmth of a group setting. Families can call for further information at 773.863.7575.
Caregivers who are unsure about their loved one's state of mind can register for a FREE evaluation from Little Company of Mary's Senior Cognitive Evaluation Program to determine the memory impairment, which may require further evaluation. Evaluations will be available Monday afternoons beginning at 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Appointments are required and may be scheduled by calling Outpatient Services at 708.229.5625.
Dr. Michael Thomas (left) and Dr. Syed Mohsin (right)
